The community of Warrenbayne has a state-of-the art hall thanks to the hard work of volunteers, contractors and a bit of government support.
The Warrenbayne Recreation Reserve Committee of Management (WRRCM) took on the task of having the town’s hall renovated in 2020.
In June that year, State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced funding of $43,875.
That money was to repair the roof structure, install an evaporative air-conditioner, upgrade the entrance for disability access, install a commercial gas stove and reinstate and update the outdoor toilet facility.
On top of that, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning provided and managed funding to install safety rails, hand rails and a guard rail around a large water storage tank.
It also funded new concrete footpaths and ramps to all entrances of the hall, outside toilet block and storage shed, as well as a 6.63kW solar system.
A Benalla Rural City Council grant of $20,000 was used to upgrade barbecue facilities.
Council also provided two community grants of $2500 which paid for a new hot water system and upgrading the eves around the hall, making it more secure against fire and vermin.
With work now complete, WRRCM committee member Catherine Harrison said there were a lot of people to thank.
“The businesses ... that supported the Warrenbayne Hall Committee and the numerous tradespeople who undertook the work deserve a huge pat on the back,” Ms Harrison said.
“The reserve and facilities are now safe, fresh and welcoming.”
She specifically thanked Brett Harrison Building Contractor, M & S Brunner Plumbing, Reece Plumbing, Spot-on-Sparky Electrical Contractor, Best Sheds, Aligned Engineering, Wally Patuzska, Peter Mennen, Violet Town Quarry, Fletchers, Mitre 10 and Haymes Paint Shop.
“The hall committee and dedicated community members played an integral role in achieving this marvellous outcome by contributing many hours of volunteer labour and support,” she said.
The hall is available for hire. For more information and prices, email warrenbaynehall@gmail.com.