40 Years of The Ville: Community Tales

It’s no secret that The Ville has played a special role in the lives of many over the past four decades.

For Townsville locals Jenni and Herman Hetlam, The Ville has been there through life’s biggest milestones. From their wedding 40 years ago, to a ruby anniversary that has almost fallen in sync with the property’s official June birthday, The Ville has been part of their story from the very beginning. Celebrating family milestones and special occasions seaside has become something of a Hetlam family tradition – every achievement, big or small, has been worth raising a glass to.

Similarly, 31 May 1986 marked a memorable day for the Dutton family. The Sheraton had only just opened, with its new accommodation and bars setting the scene for Janelle and Gary’s wedding celebrations. After travelling all the way from Brisbane, Janelle recalls:

Making the occasion even more memorable, it also happened to be Gary’s birthday. While we can’t say for certain whether that timing was strategic on Gary’s part (it certainly makes remembering your anniversary easier), we’re quietly confident it made every birthday that followed just a little more special.

Janelle also recalls the days when a collared shirt – or lack thereof – determined whether you made it into the Casino, a rule that Gary once fell victim to. Fashion may have changed over the years, but our dress code still stands (we’re looking at you, doublepluggers).

We pay our respects to Gary, who sadly passed away in 2025. While he may have missed our 40th birthday celebrations, we’re honoured to help keep his memory alive through the stories shared as part of The Ville’s history.

For Natasha Braid, The Ville holds memories of another unforgettable wedding celebration. Natasha and her husband celebrated their reception in Ballroom 1 at the then Jupiters Hotel & Casino on 29 April 2000.

In a time before mobile phones documented every moment, weddings looked a little different. No content creators, no endless camera rolls – just a photographer, a handful of black and white photographs and memories that have stood the test of time.

Of course, Natasha’s reception came with a story that guests likely still talk about today. A smoke machine on the dance floor accidentally triggered the ballroom’s fire alarms after the smoke detectors weren’t isolated, prompting an unexpected visit from the local fire brigade. For a brief moment, some guests thought the newlyweds had arranged a surprise performance.

Alongside the memories, Natasha shared a collection of treasured photographs including portraits by the pool (pictured), a snap of the fire brigade’s arrival mid-reception and even the original room deposit receipt complete with Sheraton branding.

To those who shared their stories, photographs and memories throughout our 40th birthday celebrations, thank you.

Until next time.