In the Past

is compiled from the Daily Advertiser

by the Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society

25 Years Ago

• Australia’s bowlers will have their work cut out for them on the upcoming Ashes tour of England says the cricketer who will lead the Australian assault, Test fast bowler, Geoff Lawson who is back home in Wagga this week.
• Sandwich boards are banned by Wagga City Council but the Mayor, Ald Ron Harris has been authorised to hold further discussions with Wagga Chamber of Commerce and other organisations.
• Wagga City Council is accused of turning a blind eye to problems which will result from a planned two week closure of the Hampden Bridge for repairs later this year.
• Plans are well under way for a multi-million dollar shopping centre, the Riverina Plaza. Located on the corner of Berry and Forsyth streets, the centre will include 20 specialty stores and Australia’s newest supermarket chain, Bi-Lo.
• Wagga’s rural ratepayers last night decided to pursue a split from the Wagga City Council as a result of increasing rate payments and the fact that they see themselves being unfairly treated by the Council.
• Finco Road Pantry which opened 10 months ago has made three unsuccessful applications to extend trading hours but their latest bid to keep the business open until to midnight will now be opened by Wagga City Council for public submission.

50 Years Ago

• The Mayor, Ald. I. J. Jack officially opens Wagga’s £210,000 Bowling Centre on the corner of Peter and Thompson streets by sending down the traditional gold bowl and cutting the ribbon to open the lanes.
• Wagga Apexian’s turned out to erect a new fence at the rear of the Broad Street home of Wagga widow, Mrs Skaski. The fence was beyond repair and straying stock threatened her garden.
• The Wagga Chamber of Commerce wants 10-minute parking in Fitzmaurice Street, near the Post Office. Mr C. M. Robertson said that businessmen often had to park several blocks away from the Post Office and a 10 minute limit would ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
• Heatwave conditions have caused increased consumption of water and the level of reservoirs is well down this week. Farmers have been forced to cart water for stock and domestic use on their properties.
• The grandstand at Robertson Oval will be named after Mr Jack Hamill who was Secretary of the Community Advancement Fund from the date of its formation until two years ago.
• Three teachers’ college lecturers from Uganda are presently visiting Wagga to study the infant teacher training course at Wagga Teachers College.