Tallarook Mechanics Institute will host an open day on Saturday to celebrate its rebuilt hall.
The open day, from 10am to 2pm, will feature live music, cooking demonstrations, venue tours and a committee question and answer session.
The hall was officially opened on May 2 – almost three years to the day the original structure was destroyed by fire.
The opening, attended by a wide range of community members, businesses and special guests, was in conjunction with Tallarook Farmer’s Market.
Originally opened in 1891, the hall had been a community hub for nearly 130 years with many activities, special events and functions across generations.
The new façade uses design features of the old hall shape and style with a modern twist.
The hall is owned by Mitchell Shire Council and managed by the Tallarook Mechanics Institute Committee of Management under a funding and service agreement.
The hall was rebuilt through council’s insurers who engaged Zen Architects and Bay Builders. The committee and community members also assisted with significant in-kind supports and volunteer hours.
A $200,000 State Government grant was secured by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes to assist with items such as design, contents, landscaping and equipment replacement.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Rhonda Sanderson said it was a proud moment for the community to formally reopen the building.
“There was so much history and love for the Hall. After the fire, the community showed how resilient they truly are,” she said.
“The Tallarook community is a very close knit and passionate one. To be able to share in this day was a fantastic honour for me.”
