WLAC26 History
Formation of the Wodonga Little Athletics Centre 26 originated in 1968, when, following a number of preliminary meetings, a decision was made at a meeting held on Saturday the 12th of October to inaugurate the Albury-Wodonga Little Athletics Centre.
The aim of the centre was to run a weekly athletic competitions from October to March for boys and girls aged between 7 and 12 years.
As part of the requirement for a centre to affiliate with the Victorian Little Athletics Association, centre’s had to have 3 clubs affiliated within the centre, and at least 20 registered members in each of the 3 clubs.
Those present at the meeting decided to hold a trial carnival on November 2nd 1968 to gauge the interest of local children and parents. Local identity, dual Stawell Gift winner Bill Howard was invited to attend and open the carnival. Top Victorian trainer Pat Kennedy was also in attendance.
Following the success of the carnival, the Albury-Wodonga Little Athletics Centre was formed on the 9th November 1968, becoming centre number 26 in Victoria.
The following committee was elected:
Chairman – Harry Strelec; Deputy Chairman L. Potter; Secretary – Ian Mann; Assistant Secretary – Val Brady; Treasurer – Geoff Cook; Registrar – W. Davis; Publicity – Hugh McKinnon; Technical & Equipment – Cliff Chapman. It was confirmed regular meets would be held each Saturday morning at Martin Park, Wodonga.
Approx. 200 children registered as members of the 4 clubs which had affiliated with the centre.
The clubs were: Albury, Wodonga Gold, Wodonga Maroon and Bandiana-Bonegilla. The following week a further 2 clubs were formed, East Albury and Wodonga Blue taking the number of clubs to 6 within the centre.
By the end of November, there were 280 children registered and competing at the centre each Saturday and so began the continuing journey of providing fun & fitness to over 200 local children each Saturday morning.
