By Bronwyn Hastings

Horsham City Oval’s grandstand has been a backdrop to sporting and community events for a century.

A committee formed to mark the milestone is seeking to share stories and memories in the lead-up to a celebratory event.

First used on April 4, 1924, the grandstand was officially opened in 1925 and has been home to football, netball, cricket, athletics and the town’s brass and pipe bands. 

Committee member Neville Mc-Intyre remembers playing at the grandstand as a child.

“My Grandma Lane lived in O’Callaghans Parade, and each Sunday when my parents would visit her, I would go across and play there,” he said.

“It has so much history.”

The area underneath the grandstand was originally change rooms, but is currently used as storage for oval maintenance equipment. 

Memorabilia will be displayed in the space during the centenary event. 

Committee member Kevin Dellar recalls playing football at city oval in unfavourable conditions.

“The town’s tip used to be where the soundshell is at Sawyer Park,” he said.

“Every Saturday they would burn the rubbish, putting smoke across the oval.”

Mr Dellar said it was not unusual for crowds of thousands to attend the ground.

“There were 5000 people at a Horsham versus Minyip game, not counting the children,” he said.

“I remember sneaking into the ground, going straight to the grandstand and just racing up and down the steps.

“In those days they would charge to sit in the grandstand, too.”

Residents who would like to share memories can call Neville McIntyre on 0428 846 217.

The committee invites everyone to attend the free afternoon tea on May 25 to celebrate the milestone – but although the event is free, tickets are required and are available from the White Hart Hotel, Horsham.

The entire April 24, 2024 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire April, 24, 2024 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!