Willaura Hall redevelopment officially opened
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The Willaura community has celebrated the reopening of their refurbished hall this Thursday, with an official opening taking place last Thursday.
Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Cr Peter Beales opened the redevelopment, which included new toilets, an accessible toilet with baby change facilities and shower, a major electrical upgrade and new carpet throughout the entrance and foyer.
Ararat Rural City Council fully funded the project with $350,000, working with architect Morton Dunn and local contractor Eastick Homes, with the project construction beginning in October last year.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the Council was indebted to the project control group, made up of hall committee members, who have met monthly since December 2017 when planning commenced.
“The group members have contributed many hours of work in developing the project and continuing through the construction phase, which we are really grateful for,” Dr Harrison said.
“Council would like to especially thank Ron Jenkinson, Tony Millear, Anthony Evans, Nicco Vanderwerf and Heather Fleming for their invaluable contributions.”
The Willaura Hall Committee has also contributed financially towards the cost of new carpet throughout the hall’s foyer and entrance area.
The upgrade has seen the development of a much more user friendly Willaura Hall. The work also included a new cleaner’s cupboard with a sink and more storage space, and the hall also now has a ramp at the front to allow for easier access for all.
“Investing in rural communities is vital to their sustainability,” Dr Harrison said.
“Community halls are incredibly important meeting places for the community and provide a space to gather, socialise and connect. This Willaura Memorial Hall now provides amenities and access for everyone and is fully inclusive, which will mean the world to the people who use it.”
Picture above: Willaura Hall Committee members pictured during the redevelopment work. From left to right - Ron Jenkinson, Nico Vanderwerf, Tony Millear and Heather Fleming.