NESTLES Dennington worker Graeme Trigg put on his Santa’s helper uniform as part of the factory’s staff social club’s commitment to brighten Christmas for those in the Warrnambool Base Hospital. The 1980 visit was the 50^th time Nestles staff had carried out this ritual.  

FOR the first time, women lifesavers patrolled Warrnambool beaches. Jenny McFarlane and Bernadette Virgona were part of the patrol and they were also among the first women to gain bronze medallion qualifications in the 93-year history of the Surf Life Saving Association of Australia.     

NESTLES opener Nevin Wright scored his first A grade Warrnambool and District Cricket Association century when he made an unbeaten 142 against Kraft-Allansford. Merrivale’s batsmen had less fortune in their game against West Warrnambool with five players dismissed without scoring.

THE standard of competitors at the Warrnambool Little Athletics Club was very high back in December, 1980.

This was proven when the under 10s girl’s team travelled to the state championships at Olympic Park in Melbourne. 

The team was made up of Donna O’Brien, Liz Kelly, Megan Jones and Emma Crichton.

In an outstanding display, the team won a gold medal in the 4x200 metre relay. Reports from the day about the win noted the team’s win had much to do with its excellent overhand baton changing compared by many poor baton changes from other teams in the race. 

Other good performers from Warrnambool at the meeting included a silver medal in the 4x200 metre category by the under 12s girl’s team. 

THE second annual West Coast Country Music Festival was held at Friendly Societies Park in Warrnambool. Headline acts included Jade Hurley, Ernie Sigley, Col Elliott and Humphrey B. Bear. 

THERE was much excitement among movie fans in Warrnambool with the screening of The Shining starring Jack Nicholson at the Capitol Cinema. 

STUNTMAN Dale Buggins brought his show to Warrnambool which included him jumping 15 buses on his motorcycle.