General News
5 February, 2026
Reunion on the horizon
The Hopetoun, Beulah, Rainbow Reunion committee is planning a massive weekend of fun, laughter, good cheer, and plenty of reminiscing.
The committee has put out to past and present residents to get together and reminisce about the good old days, town hall dances, picnics, and perhaps the one that got away if you're a regular at dropping a line in at the lake.
However, the 2026 reunion is fast approaching.
The weekend activities will commence on Saturday, February 28, with a social get-together at the Community Hotel that evening; this is a great time to catch up with many locals and share stories about the region.
Hopefully, as many as possible will enjoy a counter tea followed by the informal catch-up.
"If we go by last year, many current residents will also be in attendance, so if you can arrive on Saturday, I highly recommend joining us at the Hotel," said committee member Steve Haynes.
After Saturday’s informal evening, the official reunion events will take place on Sunday, March 1.
At 11am, we’ll show old films of social events from the 1950s to 1970s, restored by the Historical Society.
Lunch at 12 noon is a BYO. Several outlets in Hopetoun will offer takeaway food.
"Our guest speaker, Michael Gooch, scheduled for 12.30pm will talk about his venture, an accommodation and tour business called ‘Explore the Mallee’ based near Patchewollock, which will take in a lot of what is good about the region.
After all the fun, Mr Haynes said there is a time to return to the present with the Annual General Meeting at 1pm.
"The main business is the election of office bearers and deciding the venue for the 2027 reunion,” he said.
“We are funded purely by donations, and there will be a collection box available on the day for any contributions.”
After the formal part of the afternoon, there will be another screening of the old movies at about 3pm for those who would like to stay and enjoy.
"Tom Huf is preparing the old movies for viewing, and we do thank Tom, Brian (Turk) Decker, and the Historical Society for the work they are doing in preparation for our weekend," Mr Haynes said.
"As with past Reunions, many ex-residents will travel to and from Hopetoun and Beulah on the day, but where possible, we hope you can stay overnight and enjoy the features of the Southern Mallee."
Mr Haynes also sees this as a chance to highlight nearby communities, and encourages everyone to consider staying in Lascelles, Woomelang, Yaapeet, Patchewollock, Brim, or Rainbow.
Accommodation options have been shared on Facebook and by email to past attendees.
For assistance, contact Brian and Shirley Decker (0409833857), Cath Taylor (0407854125), or Steve Haynes (0409811268).