October is History Month Edenhope

15/11/2025

Edenhope Pastoral & Agricultural Show - 15.11.2025.

EDENHOPE HISTORICAL SOCIETY DISPLAY
This is a re-creation of ‘The Cockies March’.
Recognition of a significant ‘lost’ story from our past.
Signs are not original, but based on photos in the albums that are sitting along the bench.
With kind regards to John ‘JB’ Forster for entrusting us with his records.

10/11/2025

“We Will Remember Them”

29/10/2025

Edenhope Race Club. -The history of the Edenhope Race Club dates back to the early days. Over time, the course shifted locations, with races being held south of the township and north-east of Lake Wallace. The race course was permanently established in 1930, with Mr. W G Laidlaw appointed as President. Working bees were organized to clear 84 acres, allowing for pine trees to be planted and fenced areas for picnic parties on race days. The inaugural race meeting took place on 21st March 1931, with total stake money of £73. Mr. Walter Gordon Laidlaw passed away on July 13th, 1951, bequeathing £2,000 and his ashes to the Edenhope Race Club. He also donated £1,000 to the Edenhope Bush Nursing Hospital. It was stipulated that his ashes be scattered on the course in a private manner. His wish was not to have a memorial erected in his honor but to have his name associated with a racing event. Walter G Laidlaw will be remembered for his love of flowers, having planted thousands of Dahlias, gladioli, and lilies in ponds. Edenhope earned the reputation as 'The Flemington of the bush.' Historically, Edenhope hosted five race meetings; however, it is now allocated one meeting. Times have changed, yet many generations continue to gather at Edenhope races for reunions, family catch-ups, picnics, and betting on horses. The track remains 3 kilometers on the Wimmera Highway west of Edenhope.

24/10/2025

Edenhope & District Hospital boasts a rich history of healthcare provision to the district, dating back to 1910. Over the years, numerous medical, allied health, and domestic staff have been employed to care for the most vulnerable and sick members of the community. Joyful occasions have included the delivery of many babies born at Edenhope Hospital. As time has progressed, successive governments have revised the rules governing the services deemed appropriate for our community. The transformations that have taken place over the many years have now become an integral part of the hospital's history.

20/10/2025

John Langens. Born 23.10.1930. John relocated to Edenhope in 1996 and resided in Wilson St, before recently moving to the Barkala Flats in Edinburgh Rd. He volunteered at the Edenhope Tourist Information Centre, holding the President's role for many years. Additionally, he volunteered for Meals on Wheels. His daughter Heather and son-in-law Peter have been commuting from NSW to Edenhope frequently to support John in his advancing years. He celebrated lunch at the BorderInn with friends. Congratulations to John on reaching 95 years of age.🫖☕️

17/10/2025

Let’s revisit the past. Edenhope was renowned for its exceptionally skilled football players. The town boasted numerous young men who formed teams for the local Football Club. Enjoy reminiscing about those bygone days. St Malachy’s team comprised boys from Edenhope, Apsley, Harrow, and Tarrayoukan.

15/10/2025

I got over 50 reactions on my posts last week! Thanks everyone for your support! 🎉

13/10/2025

October 1996 marked a significant milestone for James (Jim) Greenhill, as he had a staggering $10 million reasons to smile, courtesy of the 18-game quick pick for Tuesday's Ozlotto jackpot purchased from local newsagency proprietors Rod and Debbie Reinheimer. Having recently collected winnings from a horse racing event, Jim decided to invest in a lotto ticket. A dedicated member of the Lions Club for 32 years, joining on 17th October 1967, Jim was honored with the Melvin Jones Fellow award, recognizing his devoted humanitarian service. Beyond his involvement with the Lions Club, Jim was an active participant in various community activities, including serving as a Life Member of the Edenhope Race Club, holding multiple positions, and playing a pivotal role in establishing the local tennis club and courts. He was a steadfast supporter of the Edenhope Football Club and held various positions within the Edenhope RSL sub-branch. Under the guidance of his family, Jim planned to share his winnings with the Edenhope community, benefiting organizations such as the Edenhope Hospital, Lions Club, local churches, race club, football club, and Edenhope College. Jim's dedication to the community and his winning smile have left a lasting impression on those who knew him. His legacy continues through his daughter Julie, who remains committed to the community and takes a keen interest in the annual Greenhill Cup. The community of Edenhope is indeed richer for having had Jim as a part of it. Jim, along with his wife Lil, successfully managed the Edenhope co-op, now Foodworks, for many years.

09/10/2025