THE first century of Bridgewater’s memorial hall will be celebrated on the ground and in the air this weekend.
Back-to celebrations, the first in the town for more than 50 years, will reconnect current and former residents over three days.
Barefoot bowls open celebrations tomorrow evening but activities literally take off on Saturday with history displays, the primary school’s 150th anniversary and an open day at Bridgewater Airport.
Matt and Priscilla Wernert will see their airport abuzz with vintage bi-planes that first flew the skies a century ago.
“We have planes flying in from interstate and one that’s making the trip from just 7km away,” said Matt.
Aerobatics and parachute jump displays are also on the day’s program.
Matt said model aero club members would return for their second major event at Bridgewater this year with displays during the day.
 The weekend will also see the opening of a new business in Bridgewater.
Nursery owner Bianca Rothacker has spent the week putting final touches to a new indoor gift centre adjoining her garden centre in the historic old  town garage.
Renovations of the memorial hall have been finished and will be unveiled at the centenary ball on Saturday night.
And back-to organiser Jill Hobbs said a large crowd was also expected at the recreation reserve on Sunday for the family day with traditional games and other activities. “We’ll be toasting and celebrating our community all weekend,” she said.
 

Friday October 20
5pm – Barefoot Bowling under lights at Bridgewater Bo