Compiled from the Daily Advertiser
by the Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society
25 Years Ago
- Australia’s worst drought in living memory has slashed grain production in the Riverina by a massive 90%.
- Wagga sweltered through its hottest December day for 40 years when the mercury reached 42 degrees.
- Athol Street residents, Arthur and Bette Nixon are pictured in the Daily advertiser admiring the efforts of their neighbours who have decorated their homes and gardens for Christmas.
- Member for Wagga, Joe Schipp announced funds of $3.86 million towards the redevelopment of Wagga Base Hospital.
- Director of Engineering and Technical Services at Wagga City Council, Mr Gary Wells, said that a survey had shown that facilities at Wagga Airport are generally regarded as satisfactory.
- Kooringal Colts farewelled long- serving member and player, David Benn at its Christmas party held at the home of Phil and Leanne Croker.
- Norma Richardson from Wagga Commercial Bowling Club has achieved another “White Pocket” with her selection in the NSW team for the national interstate round-robin series.
- Recession and drought have contributed to the closure of Wagga’s Heritage Markets established by Gil Mathew just 18 months ago.
- Foster’s Special Bitter and Light cans are selling for just $14.95 per case and Miranda Spumante and Passion Pop 750 ml just $2.59 at Cannons Supermarkets.
- Elyce Payne, 4 is pictured in the Daily Advertiser speaking with Santa at the Building Workers annual picnic day held at the Wagga Showground.
- Trophies were awarded to Mount Austin Primary School’s three outstanding sportspeople, Megan Linsell, Justin Ward and Cassie Hoogeveen.
- Plans for Choices Nite Spot to expand into adjoining floor space once used by its rival, Coco’s were approved by Wagga City Council.
- Residents of Caloola Court received a surprise when they were visited by a group of pre-school children from the Kurrajong-Waratah Early Intervention Centre.
50 Years Ago
- Wagga based police breathalyser squads have begun patrolling the Riverina District and are making a concerted effort to stamp out drunken driving over the holiday period.
- In an appeal to parishioners, the Rector of the Anglican Parish of Wagga, the Venerable K A Osborne said that St John’s Church is in grave danger of “closing down” as there is not sufficient money coming in to keep “things” going.
- Ron Kershaw was awarded the R A Johnson Apprenticeship Award for Perseverance and Industry by Mr C Boardman, principal of the Wagga Technical College.
- Manager of 2WG, Mr Ken Buntain, said that the Haven lottery commenced in October and drawn this week had sold 6,000 tickets and made a profit of $3564 for the Haven.
- Wagga City Council increased rates for 1970 by 8.9 per cent.
- Wagga Legacy President, Mr Andy Ireland, is pictured in the Daily Advertiser with Treasurer Mr C White and Secretary Mr J Woods at the Wagga Legacy annual legatee fellowship event held at the Wagga RSL Club.
- Member for Wagga and Minister for Mines, Mr Fife has welcomed the decision to establish a driver training school in Wagga.
- Mr Lindsay Carr, retiring secretary of the Murrumbidgee Turf Club was presented with a presentation salver by Chairman, Mr O K Tyson at a farewell function held at the Commercial Club.
- Wagga City Alderman voted seven to four in favour of a motion from Ald Condon to defer consideration of the purchase of a mayoral car until next year’s council estimates.
- Leagues Club Director, Mr J Harmon presented a donation of Christmas refreshments to Mrs H Marks, administration director of the Haven Old Peoples Home.
- Wagga Jeweller, Bruce Oakes has opened a new shop at the old MLC building in Fitzmaurice Street.
- Mr and Mrs Bob Rake are pictured in the Daily Advertiser with Mr Stephen Howarth and Miss Robyn Lenon attending the Brijob Christmas Party.
- Lonnie Lee and the Townsmen are playing at this week’s Ladies’ night at the Wagga RSS&A Club.
Membership of the Wagga Wagga and District Historical Society is open to anyone with an interest in the local and regional history of Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia. For more information about us and information on how to join our Society visit our website at https://www.wwdhs.org.au/about-us/members
