Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall Turns 100

The Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall is celebrating a significant occasion this Saturday, commemorating its centenary with a black tie ball at the venue.

The iconic venue was officially opened by State MP for Cootamundra, Hugh Main, in 1925, before a crowd described as the largest which had ever assembled in Woodstock.

Built in 1924, the hall was erected as a mark of respect and remembrance of the army, navy and air servicemen and women of the community.

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.

Today, a dedicated committee still manages the hall. The annual Woodstock Memorial Show assists with donations annually to the Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall.

A new kitchen was added in the 1950s and in March 2018 the Memorial Hall successfully acquired a NSW Government Grant of $153,000 to undertake upgrades within the hall, including air conditioning, sound, lighting and stage fitouts.

The Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall has been well utilised over the past century, playing host to many dinner

dances, fund-raising balls, wakes and wedding receptions. It has screened hundreds of movies.

In recent years the Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall has played host to the Festival of Small Halls Australia for the past 8 years, and several other music artists including The Seekers Keith Potger and Kirsty Lee Akers.

The hall hosts the annual Woodstock Public School Presentation Day. It is available for hire and makes an amazing wedding reception venue.

Tickets from the black tie are $90 per person. To check availability go to www.123tix.com.au/events/47808/woodstock-hall-100-year-anniversaryball