By Lucy Waldron
After several months of closure for extensive structural repairs, the Allora Community Hall has reopened, once again serving as a central gathering place for residents of Allora.
The $400,000 renovation marks a significant investment in the town’s infrastructure, ensuring the hall remains a vital hub for social events and community engagement.
Allora Community Circle Committee member, Krissy Henry said bringing the community together is of great importance and the hall provides another avenue to achieve this goal.
“The reopening of the Allora Community Hall is a great relief for community groups such as the Allora Community Circle and the Allora High Tea Committee, who have been eager to resume their annual fundraisers since the hall’s closure,” Ms Henry said.
“We greatly appreciate the council’s efforts in restoring this vital community facility.
“The Allora Community Circle looks forward to working on further improvements in the future to strengthen and enhance the hall’s role within the community.”
Southern Downs Regional Council Councillor Russell Wantling, who oversees the portfolio that includes community halls, highlighted the significance of these spaces.
“Community halls are crucial for fostering social connections, preserving cultural heritage, supporting economic development, providing educational opportunities, and serving as emergency response centres,” Cr Wantling stated.
“Investing in and maintaining these spaces is essential for the continued well-being and prosperity of rural communities.
“It is fantastic that these repairs have been completed and that the hall is again available for the community.”
Councillor and Allora resident Carla Pidgeon, a strong advocate for the hall’s repairs, celebrated its reopening as a victory for the community.
“Community halls are essential in rural areas like Allora, serving as gathering places where people can connect, celebrate, and support each other,” Cr Pidgeon said.
“The Allora Community Hall represents the town’s collective spirit and shared experiences, and the excitement for its reopening reflects how much it means to everyone here.”
Mayor Melissa Hamilton expressed gratitude to Allora residents for their patience during the repair process.
“Council is grateful for the community’s patience throughout the repair process,” Cr Hamilton said.
“I know the community is looking forward to having its hall back, and with the upgrades completed, the hall can continue to be an integral part of the Allora community for the years ahead,” Mayor Hamilton said.
With the hall now fully operational, Allora residents and community groups can once again gather, celebrate, and connect in this cherished space. For those interested in hiring the Allora Community Hall for their next event, contact the Southern Downs Regional Council on 1300 697 372 for more information.
