Rochester Historical and Pioneer Society members Kaye Speers, Murray Phipps, Ruth O’Connor, John Foster and Ray Liddicoat.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
The Rochester Salvation Army hall is set to mark 100 years since it officially opened, on June 19, 1926.
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Although the Salvation Army established a Rochester branch in July 1888, the original barracks were located in a flood-prone area and eventually a new hall was needed.
The hall served as a base for Salvation Army programs and events, while also becoming a gathering place for the wider community.
The Salvation Army hall’s official opening in 1926.
Originally located on the corner of Elizabeth and Victoria streets, not far from where the Salvation Army Op Shop now stands, the building endured several major floods during its history.
On Easter Sunday in 1939, the largest flood since 1916 inundated the hall, followed by another major flood in 1947.
The damage caused by the floods was substantial, and after the building was no longer used by the Salvation Army, it was purchased by the Rochester Historical and Pioneer Society in 1986.
The Salvation Army hall now stands alongside the historical society’s main building.
After many delays due to “red tape”, the hall was finally transported across the river in September 1987 to its current location beside the historical society’s building on High St.
Today, the historical society uses the hall as an extension of its main building to store and display historical items.
To celebrate the milestone, the community is invited to explore the historic hall and view a special display detailing the building’s history.
Red Shield Appeal
The Salvation Army continues to have a strong presence within the Rochester community.
Each year, Salvation Army volunteers come together to raise money for those in need through the Red Shield Appeal.
Funds will help support programs in local communities and emergency support for residents.
The appeal for Campaspe Shire, covering Echuca, Moama, Rochester and Kyabram, officially launched on Monday, May 18.
Volunteers will be collecting donations at Salvation Army stores across the region.
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