In the Past

is compiled from the Daily Advertiser

by the Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society

25 Years Ago

·         Well known businessman Clive Fearne died this week at the age of 78. Mr Fearne lived in Wagga all his life and had been the owner-manager of Fearnes Coaches since 1937 following in the footsteps of his father William who started the company in 1916.

·         Elizabeth Harding, daughter of Wagga Alderman, John Harding is awarded a Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood) by the Riverina Institute of Higher Education. She is pictured being congratulated by the Chairman of RMIHE  Council, Mr J.A. Dibb-Smith

·         Deputy Mayor, Ald. Peter Dale advised that Council has made provision for the construction of the North Wagga Levee system to a one in 20 year standard.

·         Coopers and Lybrand has announced the appointment of David Friedlieb as a partner in their Wagga practice. Mr Friedlieb graduated from the RMIHE in 1977.

·         Lake Albert and Australian Youth Test opening batsman Michael Slater is pictured in the Daily Advertiser receiving the Geoff Lawson award for the WDCA under 19 cricketer-of-the-year from Deputy Mayor, Ald. Peter Dale.

50 Years Ago

·         Ald. R. J. Harris said that pedestrians “meander across and often stop to talk in the middle of the road.” He said traffic lights were needed for at least two pedestrian crossings, outside the Plaza Theatre and near the Post Office.

·         Treasurer of the Murrumbidgee District Ambulance, Mr. M. Gissing receives a cheque for £400 from the District Governor of Quota, Mrs Ida McMahon, watched on by Wagga Quota Club President, Mrs. Hamill and Ambulance Superintendent, Mr. Len Rees.

·         Wagga City Council is making good progress in the complete reconstruction of Trail Street.

·         Wagga Apex Club will be delivering firewood to Wagga homes for £3/10/- a ton. The wood has been donated to the Club by the McRae brothers of Collingullie.

·         Work has started on the excavation of foundations for the Mount Austin High School. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

·         Members of the winning team in The Rock tennis competition celebrated at Romano’s Hotel. They included Mesdames J. Gerhardy, K. Michael, N.Parker, G.Rodham, A Kohlhagen and M. Jarrick.

·         The Bomen Lagoon, near the old North Wagga Speedway has dried up for the first time in 19 years.