The newly refurbished Winchelsea Shire Hall has reopened its doors as it begins its next chapter as home to the Winchelsea Community House.
The Winchelsea Hall was officially on February 10 after undergoing refurbishment works, including the replacement of the carpet, painting, removal of the stage and servery and electrical installations, to prepare it for its new role.
The $96,000 project was funded by the Surf Coast Shire Council after advice was sought from heritage advisers and architects to ensure the building’s historic value.
The hall is now open Wednesday to Friday from 10am to 2pm, offering a range of community activities, including events, exhibitions, children’s story time and youth drop-ins.
“Winchelsea Community House is delighted to finally have the Shire Hall project completed and is looking forward to welcoming the community to the new community space,” Winchelsea Community House coordinator Wendy Greaves said.
The much-loved bluestone building also houses Surf Coast Shire’s maternal and child health services and the Winchelsea Visitor Information Centre.
Mayor Libby Stapleton said she was so pleased the hall’s doors were now open again.
“The Winchelsea Shire Hall is the heart of this community, and I’m so happy it’s now reopened for all to use and enjoy,” she said.
“It certainly is a wonderful use for this space as home of the Winchelsea Community House, where it will return to being a vibrant hub. People of all ages, all abilities and all walks of life will come together here for all sorts of community activities.
“The new fit-out looks fantastic, and I’m pleased it’s been very tastefully done to honour the building’s history and charm, such as retaining the antique table chairs.
“As we slowly emerge from the pandemic, places like this are going to be more important than ever in bringing us back together and sparking lifelong friendships. While the Shire Hall’s new life will be somewhat different from its old, it’s just wonderful that its future is in the hands of a much-loved local community organisation.”
Winchelsea Community House plans to extend its operating hours to weekends next month.
