THE HISTORY
The Bega Agricultural, Pastoral and Horticultural Society’s new Pavilion was opened on Wednesday 1st March 1905 by Mr. W.S. Campbell, Director of Agriculture NSW. The building was the largest in Bega and was 100ft by 60 ft (30 x 18m), composed of brick with a galvanised iron roof.
The Bega AP&H Society was formed in 1871 and after many setbacks it was decided to build a Pavilion. Many early records have been lost due to a fire in a building in Church Street.
The Contractor to build the Pavilion was Mr. W. Manning and the Architect was Mr. R.W. Thatcher. The cost of the construction was approximately ₤24,000, which in those days was a lot of money.
The Society now had a permanent home for its exhibitors allowing the Bega Show to become the Far South Coast National Show at a later date.
As well as being used to house exhibits for the Show, the Pavilion has been host to many events such as Balls, Exhibitions, Dinners, Conferences, Basketball, Indoor Cricket, Gymnasium and lately HSC Exams.
FUN DAY & THE CENTENARY BALL
To celebrate the Centenary, a Centenary Ball was held on Saturday 23rd April, 2005 following a Street Parade down Carp Street and a Fun Day at the Showground.
The day commenced with the Street Parade starting at 12 noon. Local businesses, sporting clubs, schools and service clubs supported the procession and entered floats in the parade following the successful parade several years ago. Prizes were awarded for the best float in the following classes.
Business float, sporting float, service club or community float, historical or vintage float, period or novelty costume, decorated bike or scooter, vintage car, and historical machinery or tractor.
After the Parade, the free fun day at the Bega Showground included many entertaining events including old fashioned games.
The Ball was a sellout and a great success with approximately 320 people attending, and the dancing continued until 1am. The standard of dress was great, with many people wearing old style outfits. Past & Present Miss Showgirls attended the Ball, and a list of those attending can be seen on our Showgirl page.
Life Member and our longest serving Committee Member, Mr. Alf Waterson unveiled a wall plaque in the Pavilion, marking the Centenary. Alf was introduced by his son Neil Waterson, our current President.
A gallery of old photos showing the past history and events held in the Pavilion was also on show and attracted much interest. Kevin Tetley and Alf Gowing both assisted in the presentation of photos.
The Committee thanks all the community for their support of our Pavilion's Centenary.
Photos of the day with an article are shown in the Bega District News dated 29.4.05
