The Woodstock community is set to mark a major milestone as the Soldiers Memorial Hall celebrates its 100th anniversary on Saturday, May 24th 2025 with a special evening of commemoration and celebration. 100 years ago four local men, Frederick “F.C.” Rowlands, Alexander Goodacre, William Blazely and Cedric Glasson agreed to guarantee the sum of 1500 pounds to begin building the Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall. A half-acre of land was purchased for 90 pounds and Woodstock builder William Reynolds was contracted to build the hall for 2100 pounds. When the foundation stone was laid in 1924, local people made donations totalling 1289 pounds, placing the money in envelopes on top of the stone. Local people from Woodstock and district raised funds to meet the total cost of 3583 pounds, which included the fit out, an electric lighting generator, a ‘sprung’ hardwood dance floor and a supper room on the side. The overdraft to complete the hall was fully paid by 1929. The hall was constructed to honour the local soldiers who served in World War I. The State MP for Cootamundra, Hugh Main declared Woodstock’s new hall officially open in May 1925, before a crowd described as the largest which had ever assembled in Woodstock. When the Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall was opened on 7 May 1925, it was described by the Cowra Free Press as “a truly magnificent building...well designed with an excellently finished structure.” A farmer and grazier, Mr Main knew the impact the Great War had on the district as he had served from 1916 to 1919 with the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) in France. Woodstock sent 62 men to the Great War. 14 soldiers did not return. This hall has a history of celebration and community spirit, built and funded by the community to the memory of those who fell and for the use of those that remained. Hugh Main MLA told the crowd at the opening that the Memorial Hall showed the people of Woodstock had not forgotten the sacrifices made by the men of the district who had fought and died. He hoped Woodstock would continue to support the men who had fought for them, those who had come back and those who had not. The opening festivities continued into the evening with a Grand Ball, the interior “most tastefully decorated with many coloured balloons, paper, bunting and flags.” During the 1920’s and 1930’s it was the location for many dances and balls, including the Diggers Ball, Football Ball, Mad Hatters Ball and Grand Balls to fundraise for the Hall itself. Up to 150 couples danced to music played by O’Brien’s Woodstock Orchestra, the Cowra Strollers and Theobald’s Orchestra with music and dancing sometimes continuing until 2.30am. Woodstock ladies were renowned for the suppers they provided. Especially popular was the annual BBQ Ball with a BBQ set up on the front steps. The hall has long stood as the heart of community gatherings, dances, and remembrance ceremonies. A century later, it remains a symbol of resilience, unity, and history in Woodstock. The centenary celebration will begin with a grazing table and two-course dinner, followed by live music by Angie Day and the talented musicians of ‘The Handpicked Band’ and dancing—a nod to the hall’s long tradition of hosting community socials. A live band will bring the hall to life, inviting locals of all ages to join in the festivities. Organisers say the event is not only about celebrating the past 100 years but also about bringing the community together to honour those who served and to ensure the hall continues to thrive into the future. Tickets are limited and early booking is recommended, tickets can be purchased at www.123tix.com.au/events/47808/woodstock-hall-100-year-anniversary-ball. This is a BYO event - please bring your own beverages for the evening. Seating will be organised on tables of 8 people. Come along and be part of a night to remember—celebrating 100 years of history, community, and pride at the Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall.
