New life for Ellwoods Hall The community at Stockinbingal have cause to celebrate thanks to a grant from the NSW Government’s Stronger Communities Fund Round 2 program. The grant worth $60000 has allowed Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) to refurbish sections the town’s historic hall. Ellwoods Hall was constructed in the 1920’s, being located in the centre of Stockinbingal the hall is the hub of the community. Once a venue for movie nights, weddings, and community gatherings the grand old building had fallen into disrepair. A much loved and well utilised facility, Ellwoods Hall houses the local Post Office and small museum with local artefacts and historical information on Stockinbingal.
Local Stockinbingal residents John and Michelle Harper said “The refurbishment of Ellwood’s Hall has resulted in the Stockinbingal community having a comfortable functioning social hub. Such hubs are paramount in the wellbeing of rural communities in they provide social interaction and positive activity that maintains a sense of community”. “The hall can now begin to fulfil the purpose it was built for. The Stockinbingal Stop and Mingle community group meet regularly at Ellwoods Hall. The improvements in heating and cooling has provided a comfortable setting and has contributed to more people attending.
Access to the hall has improved mobility and safety for the elderly. Tai Chi sessions are held in the hall weekly,” The Harpers added. CGRC mayor, Cr Abb McAlister said he was delighted with the refurbishment. These community halls are the life blood of our small communities, they provide venues for a range of community activities and social gatherings. This refurbishment will ensure the Stockinbingal community will continue to enjoy the activities in their hall,” Cr McAlister said. Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke MP said this is a lovely hall which the Stockinbingal community uses to hold a number of events each year. “I’m so pleased that this grant will allow the community to gather in a comfortable hall which I’m sure will play host to some truly memorable events,”
Ms Cooke said. The refurbishment has included installation of air-conditioning, ceiling fans, improvements to the entrance, meeting room, and kitchen. Stockinbingal residents Rosalie Dale said “The new Meeting Room is a godsend – bright, fresh, and inviting with its own air conditioning unit so it also can independently host anything from small meetings and community engagement sessions to the art displays. We can now book events with confidence knowing the heating and cooling will handle whatever Mother Nature throws at us”. The Committee of Management for Ellwood’s Hall is looking to create a financially viable and selfsufficient Hall which not only funds itself but other community projects in Stockinbingal. This refurbishment will allow the committee to undertake future events and gatherings at the Hall.
