A scaled-down version of the Back to Kalangadoo celebrations took place on Saturday.

The Kalangadoo History Group chose this date as it coincided almost exactly with the centenary of the Riddoch Memorial Institute which opened on October 4, 1921.

The building has had an important role in the life of Kalangadoo for 100 years but COVID-related travel restrictions prompted the postponement of most Back to Kalangadoo activities until March next year.

Its name commemorates pioneering Kalangadoo pastoralist George Riddoch, who bequeathed 2000 pounds ($4000) for its erection.

A small gathering of 20 people gathered in the Riddoch Memorial Institute to mark its centenary.

Among the local identities in attendance were Peter Riddoch Rymill and Corinne Carlson and they cut the commemorative cake.

Kalangadoo History Group chairperson Sandra Young gave a welcome and history of the institute.

Kalangadoo historian and fourth-generation farmer Nick Hunt presented a slide photo presentation of the Institute.

Displays were set from early records and photographs along with present activities in the Institute.

The honour of unveiling the commemorative plaque was given to Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll.

Afternoon tea followed to complete the afternoon.

The special Back to Kalangadoo guest next March will be satirist Bryan Dawe, COVID permitting, who will bring his own humorous anecdotes to share.

His popular monologues broadcast on ABC Radio featured the fictional character Roly Parks and were entitled “A Letter From Kalangadoo”.

Mr Dawe has often visited Kalangadoo over the past 20 years.

Among the daytime events scheduled at Kalangadoo in 2022 will be live music, displays, walking tours and rides on a railway line inspection car while the Kalangadoo railway station museum will be open.

The chosen date coincides with the holiday long weekend.