Australia's worst drought in living memory has slashed grain production in the Riverina by 90 per cent.

Wagga sweltered through its hottest December day for 40 years when the mercury reached 42 degrees.

Athol Street residents Arthur and Bette Nixon are pictured in the Daily Advertiser admiring the efforts of their neighbours who have decorated their homes and gardens for Christmas.

Member for Wagga Joe Schipp announced funds of $3.86 million towards redevelopment of Wagga Base Hospital.

Director of Engineering and Technical Services at Wagga City Council said that a survey had shown that facilities at Wagga Airport are generally regarded as satisfactory.

Kooringal Colts farewelled long serving member and player, David Benn at its Christmas party held at the home of Phil and Leanne Croker.

Norma Richardson from Wagga Commercial Bowling Club achieved another "White Pocket" with her selection in the NSW team for the national interstate round robin series.

Recession and drought have contributed to the closure of Wagga's Heritage Markets established by Gil Mathew just 18 months ago.

Foster's Special Bitter and Light cans are selling for just $14.95 per case and Miranda Spumante and Passion Pop 750 ml just $2.59 at Cannons Supermarkets.

Elyce Payne, 4, is pictured in the Daily Advertiser speaking with Santa at the Building Workers annual picnic day held at the Wagga Showground.

Trophies were awarded to Mount Austin Primary School's three outstanding sports people, Megan Linsell, Justin Ward and Cassie Hoogeveen.

Plans for Choices Nite Spot to expand into adjoining floorspace once used by its rival Coco's were approved by Wagga City Council.

Residents of Caloola Court received a surprise when they were visited by a group of pre-school children from the Kurrajong-Waratah Early Intervention Centre.

Wagga-based police breathalyser squads have begun patrolling the Riverina district and are making a concerted effort to stamp out drunken driving over the holiday period.

In an appeal to parishioners, the Rector of the Anglican Parish of Wagga, the Venerable KA Osborne said that St John's Church is in grave danger of closing down as there is not sufficient money coming in to keep things going.

Ron Kershaw was awarded the RA Johnson Apprenticeship Award for Perseverance and Industry by Mr C Boardman, principal of the Wagga Technical College.

Manager of 2WG, Ken Buntain, said that the Haven lottery commenced in October and drawn this week had sold 6000 tickets and made a profit of $3564 for the Haven.

Wagga City Council increased rates for 1970 by 8.9 per cent.

Wagga Legacy president Andy Ireland, is pictured in the Daily Advertiser with treasurer C White and secretary J Woods at the Wagga Legacy annual legatee fellowship event held at the Wagga RSL Club.

Member for Wagga and Minister for Mines Mr Fife has welcomed the decision to establish a driver training school in Wagga.

Lindsay Carr, retiring secretary of the Murrumbidgee Turf Club, was presented with a presentation salver by chairman OK Tyson at a farewell function held at the Commercial Club.

Wagga City aldermen voted 7-4 in favour of a motion from Ald Condon to defer consideration of the purchase of a mayoral car until next year's council estimates.

Leagues Club director J Harmon presented a donation of Christmas refreshments to Mrs H Marks, administration director of the Haven Old Peoples Home.

Wagga jeweller Bruce Oakes has opened a new shop at the old MLC building in Fitzmaurice Street.

Mr and Mrs Bob Rake are pictured in the Daily Advertiser with Stephen Howarth and Robyn Lenon attending the Brijob Christmas Party.

Lonnie Lee and the Townsmen are playing at this weeks ladies' night at the Wagga RSS&A Club.