On 8 October 1972 ten people who had been painting with Marion Strong [artist/tutor] held a meeting after class at the Woolgoolga Lake and formed the Woolgoolga Art Group. The group painted and exhibited in a variety of premises. WAG [as the group is affectionately known] commenced fund raising to secure a permanent home and in 1980, after raising $10,000 itself, the NSW State Government granted a further $10,000 and the Coffs Harbour City Council matched the amount 'dollar for dollar' and Michael Chart commenced building on the open space land on Ashton's Flat. Members did as much work as possible.
In 1980 the gallery was officially opened by the local member, Matt Singleton. In 1985 a pottery and kiln room was added.
In 1987, with the help of Councillor Marnie Yeates, WAG applied for a bi-centennial grant and with its own additional funds and the help of TAFE students, built the Bi-Centennial wing which was officially opened in 1988 by Member for Page, Ian Robinson.
By 1993 WAG had raised enough funds to add the workroom for classes.
The Woolgoolga Art Group is run on a completely voluntary basis and for 40 years has pursued the promotion and enjoyment of all the arts while receiving great support from the community.