Place Names Register Extract
Thomas Road
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View in NT Atlas | Print Extract | Search Again| Name | Thomas |
|---|---|
| Type Designation | Road |
| Place Id | 8031 |
| Place Type | Road |
| Status | Revoked |
| Date Registered | 16 March 1988 |
| Locality / Suburb | |
| Ilparpa | |
| Local Government Area | |
| Alice Springs Town Council | |
| History/Origin | Thomas Road in Ilparpa was named after long-time Alice Springs business owner Don Thomas (1889-1972). As the road was never constructed, the name was formally revoked in 2021. John Donaldson (Don) Absalom Thomas was born in 1889 at Watervale in South Australia's Clare Valley. He worked locally as a farmer until 1917, when he enlisted as a Private in the 9th Light Horse Regiment and served in northern Egypt during the First World War. After returning home, Don established a garage at Port Adelaide before setting out for Central Australia in 1932. Driving a modified Ford Model T, he made the long journey to Alice Springs, where he began a bush taxi and mechanic service on Todd Street. Soon afterward, he opened a second hand furniture shop and became known for his lively evening auctions - events remembered as much for his genial humour and wit as for the bargains on offer. During the Second World War, Don became the local agent for R M Williams, supplying boots and gear to stockmen across the region. His business evolved into Don Thomas Stockman Outfitters, which went on to become one of Alice Springs's best known and longest standing stores. A passionate motorist, Don attempted the Darwin to Adelaide driving record in 1936 in a Model T Ford, though a mechanical failure in South Australia forced him to abandon the run. In 1951 he purchased a bright red Jaguar XK120 - inspired, it was said, by seeing one in Todd Street that had just arrived from Darwin in record time - and he remained a familiar figure around town behind its wheel. Remembered as an energetic pioneer of Alice Springs commerce and a colourful local character, Don Thomas died in 1972. |
Register & Gazettal information
| Date | Gazettal | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| 16/03/1988 | NTG11 | |
| 11/01/2021 | Revoked - Road was never constructed |