50 years ago

CHARITY doorknocks and appeals could disappear from the Hamilton scene if plans for a community chest in the city get off the ground. Following requests by the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, the Mayor of Hamilton, Cr Ron Peck, has called a public meeting to discuss the plan on June 11. The chamber and a large section of the business community is known to favor a community chest in place of the present constant appeals for donations. The suggestion for a community chest is not a new one, but this is believed to be the first time the proposal has got to the public meeting stage. This latest campaign originated with the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce which got council approval for a public meeting at its second request.

HAMILTON basketball is to have a “new look” following a decision on Monday night to introduce three seasons to fit in with each school term. One of these seasons, from February to May, will be social matches in which players can play for any team or club, but they must revert back to their own club for the winter competition. The new policies have emerged following no less than 30 meetings within the HABA during the past three weeks involving players, officials and coaches. The spring season (third term of school) will be played concurrently with a volleyball competition at the stadium on a Sunday.  The HABA Council this week also announced a recommendation concerning American players coming into the association.

25 years ago

MACARTHUR residents have rejoiced in the news that Bank South Australia will open its doors in the town. The bank’s first foray into Victoria will be opened at Macarthur, a move which, according to Moyne Shire Council Mayor, David Miller, could open up options for other rural communities. Details of the project and a site for the facility will be finalised after Bank SA officials visit Macarthur next week. The town was left without banking facilities when the National Australia Bank closed its Macarthur operation in February this year. “This is really great news. The business people were beside themselves without the bank,” Cr Miller said. Bank SA business development manager for western Victoria, Grant Turner, said a lot of work was going into setting up the Macarthur agency, which could be opened in two to three weeks.

HAMILTON has continued its youth policy by promoting two 17-year-olds from the club’s under-18 team for the match against Heywood at Melville Oval today. Mobile ruckman, Guy Sevior and elusive wingman, James Dyer, were both named on the interchange for their first senior match. Hamilton also recalled teenage ruckman, Rowan Moyle, to replace the inured Shane Rook, who strained a hamstring at training on Tuesday night. The Magpies have also lost Matt Templeton and Sean Walsh through injury. Heywood has included inspirational coach, Kevin Hughes, and he has been selected to start the match at full-forward. Talented junior, Brett Pevitt, has also been included for his first match of the season and has been selected to start on the interchange.