Community
30 June, 2026
Charlton 100 Years Ago: an annoying dog and ladies' golf
Here's waht was making news in Charlton in 1926.

100 Years Ago
June 26 - 30, 1926
Footpath Wanted: In wet weather the approach to the station overhead bridge from the gate off Learmonth Street is very muddy and disagreeable. It would be appreciated if the railway authorities constructed a pathway sufficient to enable pedestrians to keep out of the mud on their passage to and from the station.
Dog Nuisance: The dog nuisance in our main streets is as prevalent as ever it was. Motor cars appear to provide them with joyous recreation, for they tear along in hordes behind and before any car that passes along. In some instances extensive damage to sheep has been reported, the loss being considerable. Nobody wants to get rid of useful and valuable dogs, but drastic steps will have to be taken to abate the nuisance.
Obituary: It is always sad when a loved one is claimed by the hand of death. The death occurred of Mrs D. Deegan, of Quambatook. The deceased lady, who, prior to her marriage, was on the teaching staff of the local State School, was well known, and was a great favorite with young and old alike. She was one of the most popular pupils at the Charlton Higher Elementary School and her friends mourn her loss. She was only married to Mr Deegan a little less than twelve months ago. The deceased, who was a daughter of Mr and Mrs W. O’Meara was only 19 years of age.
Building Progress: Mr S. O’Brien, builder, has completed for Mr W. Wood, a handsome substantial modern home in reinforced concrete on Clifton Hill. Charlton undoubtedly possesses great claims as a residential town, with its fine electric light scheme, water service and other aids to modern social life. The home consists of eight rooms with bathroom, vestibule, pantry and large hall under one roof. A feature of the building is the interior fittings. The ceilings are all ornamental fibrous plaster of pleasing design. The windows are leadlight in all the main rooms. The kitchen is fitted with labour saving devices.
Charlton Advances: In the past six months the Vale of Avoca Hotel has been enlarged by the addition of a second storey, and the whole building renovated and redecorated by Mr F. Gilmore (builder). A sewerage system has been installed (the first to be introduced in the town); also a hot water service on both floors. Mr and Mrs J. T. Dwyer, proprietor and licensee respectively, are to be heartily congratulated which saw them expend the large sum of £4,500. At the official opening, from 3pm there was “open house. The Band attended later in the afternoon. At six o’clock guests adjourned for a sumptuous repast followed by dancing on the balcony.
Charlton Progress Association: In the Presbyterian Hall the Association held its monthly meeting and an elaborate programme was drawn up to further improve and beautify the town.
One of the most important items was the willingness of the Association to co-operate with the trustees and undertake the responsibility and work generally of cleaning up and improving the local cemetery.
Ladies’ Golf Club: Twenty-two players competed for a golf stick, donated by Mr G. Babidge. An excellent winning card was returned by Miss E. Robertson with 62-13=49. In that score she had the misfortune to get two penalty strokes. Miss V. Wood was second and Mrs Dwyer third with 55. The Jeffcott Ball was a huge success. The floor was crowded with dancers, over 300 people being present. The supper was a feature of the affair, over seven sittings being required to cope with the attendance. The Donald Merry Maker Orchestra provided splendid music, and dancing continued into the small hours of the morning. People were present from all over the surrounding districts, the function being voted one of the most enjoyable of the season.
Read More: Charlton