Community win for Merlynston Hall (Media release)

An excited crowd gathered in the welcome shade of the leafy trees surrounding Merlynston Progress Hall today to mark a very special moment in the hall's long history.

Major refurbishment works have now begun to restore the hall to its former glory.

Moreland Mayor Cr John Kavanagh and several Councillors joined the community in celebration.

"This is a milestone I'm sure many in our community thought may never come," said Cr Kavanagh.

"There is no doubt that without the local grass roots campaign to save this historic hall, we would not be standing together celebrating this auspicious moment.

"The fact that we are here is a direct result of the countless advocacy meetings with neighbours and with councillors, the hundreds  of signatures submitted to Council, the millions of stitches crocheted  into the Save The Hall blanket- not to mention the doorknocking, fundraising and awareness-raising events.

"I look forward, as I know so many of us do, to the return of concerts, dance classes, book clubs and film nights to the hall."

Merlynston resident Gabrielle is among the many dedicated members of the community who have worked tirelessly for the past decade on the Save Merlynston Progress Hall campaign.

"Merlynston Progress Hall has always been about preserving our heritage and connecting our community," said Gabrielle.

"Over the past 10 years, there have been hundreds of people who have worked together to make this happen and we thank them  all for the time, effort and energy put into making this vibrant  pocket of Merri-bek a sustainable community.

"We understand the significance of this investment and look forward to the opening of Merlynston Progress Hall and activating this space."

Refurbishments works have now commenced. The hall is scheduled to reopen to the community in mid-2018.

14 November 2017