Author Archives: kdroryeskymeshcomau

During the early 1900’s both the older rowing clubs of Ballarat went through a downturn of memberships and regatta wins. Wendouree Rowing Club however, was only 20 years old in 1904 having been formed in 1884. The younger rowing club was enjoying far more on water success. All three clubs were also finding it difficultContinue reading “1904”

The 35th Annual meeting of the club at the Unicorn Hotel had a large attendance of members. Mr. E. Shew the president occupied the chair. It was reported that the season had been one of strenuous effort. The club was represented at four regattas but had been unable to bring home a regatta cup. WeContinue reading “1903”

Mr. L. Phillips and former club captain Mr. R. A. Petrie were added to the roll of life-members in recognition of their services to the club. It the interests of putting the club in a more sound financial position and to address the problem of the non-payment of subscriptions, the committee decide to forgo attendingContinue reading “1902”

Dr. E. Champion was the president this season with C. H. Bunce the secretary and recorded on the committee for the first time. W. Hawthorne was treasurer and R. A. Petrie the captain. Ballarat Regatta on the 22nd of February 1901 was hailed as one of the most successful ever held, with the prize moneyContinue reading “1901”

The City Club was a youngster no longer. It was 30 years old and entering the new century with high hopes but all the problems that middle age can bring. While vibrancy and youth marked the first twenty years, a staid, rather conservative progress, tended to mark this next decade. While recruiting new members wasContinue reading “1900”

The lake level was maintained splendidly this season through the flow of water from the Gong Reservoir. The Water Commission were able to successfully use the 18-inch main to full capacity and restore the now famous clear sheet of water to perfect condition. As such rowing affairs could carry on expeditiously. This season committee memberContinue reading “1899”

I am dedicating this post to my dear Mum, Maree Corbett who passed away on July 18th at 6pm. Mum was never a member of Ballarat City Rowing Club but she was such a staunch supporter and contributor over 46 years. She also holds the record of having the greatest number of family members involvedContinue reading “1898 Vale Maree Corbett 2020”

The new Ballarat Rowing Association (previously the Ballarat Regatta Association) was formed and its rules adopted. At the annual meeting it was decided unanimously to join the association. The club’s first delegates to the BRA were Dr.Champion, Mr. I. Coulter and   Mr. A. A. O’Dea. The annual Meeting was held at Newton’s Hotel in SturtContinue reading “1897”

By this season despite regular maintenance by members the fleet of boats was in need of a good overhaul. They were overhauled by Mr. Fawcett of Melbourne at a cost of 26 pounds and 10 shillings. A lot of work was carried out on the building and it was painted and generally tidied up. SeveralContinue reading “1896”

By far the heaviest loss incurred this season and possibly the greatest loss for the club to date, was the death of that pioneer and club stalwart Mr Daniel Brophy, J.P. (his biography is in the 1871 post.) Daniel had been the treasurer of the infant club and as was stated then “his cheque wasContinue reading “1895”