Hodgson Vale
Hodgson Vale
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Hodgson Vale is a small community, spanning approximately 26 km², situated 12 km south of the Toowoomba CBD. It is the traditional land of the Gaibal People.
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Named after Sir Arthur Hodgson, proprietor of the Eton Vale pastoral run and MLA for Warrego in 1868-69, Hodgson Vale is a rural and rural residential area. Arthur Hodgson and his business partner Gilbert Elliot followed the Leslie brothers in 1841, becoming the second pastoralists to settle on the Downs by claiming the valley watered by Hodgsons Creek. Hodgson and Elliot had a significant impact on the region, pioneering a safer route to Limestone (Ipswich) and Moreton Bay via Upper Flagstone Creek for transporting produce and supplies, thereby making the Downs a viable primary producer.
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Farming became the primary focus for the region well into the 20th century, with dairies, mixed grain, beef cattle, pigs, and poultry—all prominent until the latter part of the 1990s. Toowoomba’s metropolitan expansion has driven the area's growth and development, making it a popular destination for retired farmers and growing families.
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Today, Hodgson Vale is considered an ideal location for those seeking space and privacy, boasting a vibrant community spirit that transcends city culture.
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Hodgson Vale Community Sports Club
(Information contributed by Dr. Shayne Baker OAM)
The development of residential acreage blocks in Hodgson Vale began in the early 1990s, with the Geddes Family transforming former farmland to the east of the New England Highway and the Oelkers Family doing the same to the west.
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At that time, the Cambooya Shire Council decided that, since a large parcel of land had already been allocated for the area—including Lions Park, which had a council caretaker—neither family needed to provide additional parkland for the community. Instead, the developers were required to make cash contributions for future developments and improvements.
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During this period, the discussions were lively and included proposals to transform the entire area into a small 9-hole golf course (considering flood risks) or to develop off-road BMX tracks and a mountain bike trail. However, there were concerns that such developments might attract motocross bikes, which did not receive widespread support. Ultimately, the council proposed constructing an artificial multipurpose tennis and netball court with a covered players' area, similar to those built in other small communities within the shire.
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Driven by the high level of community interest and a strong desire to create a community asset that would foster broader engagement and activity, several building subcontractors residing in Hodgson Vale decided to join forces. They sought donations of building materials and enlisted volunteer labour to construct a small metal-clad and lined clubhouse. This clubhouse would serve as a hub for social gatherings and interactions beyond just tennis.
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The council supported this initiative by levelling the land for the clubhouse. Key community members—including Graham Geddes and Tony and Sue Sommerville—played crucial roles in forming the initial committee. Gary Liebke was instrumental in securing support and materials from local construction workers, and organising working bees and gatherings.
To help finance some of the work, Foundation Life Memberships were introduced, and once the tennis courts became operational, the keys were kept at the local shop to provide initial income for the club. The introduction of Family Memberships provided ongoing funds and allowed families to hire the space, including the courts, for celebrations and functions. The club was also recognised as a 'Good Sports Club' and benefited from ongoing assistance for events. Additionally, updates and support through the community newspaper, 'On Our Selection', contributed significantly.
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As the community expanded, so did expectations of what the club could offer. Community functions, along with regular classes and groups, were introduced to allow members to connect with their neighbours. Members were encouraged to participate in various events to celebrate occasions such as Australia Day, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, Pink Stumps Day, and Christmas. With the increase in activity, the committee had to establish formal processes for liquor licensing and ensure that volunteers were trained in the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA). These developments enabled the club to secure various grants to further enhance and expand its facilities. The club's continued growth prompted the Toowoomba Regional Council to provide additional improvements.
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With regular Friday night dinners and gatherings, the Hodgson Vale Community Sports Club has become a valuable asset for the community. The tireless efforts of individuals from the beginning thirty years ago, and their continued dedication, have created a legacy that will benefit families for generations to come.