Government and community join to cut the ribbon and officially open the new Wandella Hall.
25 October 2024
A new hall for the Wandella community has been officially opened following the loss of the former hall in the Black Summer bushfires.
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain joined Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick and many from the surrounding community to celebrate this significant milestone.
Mayor Fitzpatrick said the newly rebuilt Wandella Hall stands as a testament to the community's resilience and determination after the original hall was destroyed.
"It's wonderful to see the return of this crucial community hub for the Wandella community," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
"Council has worked very closely with the local community to ensure the new Wandella Hall meets the needs of today while also being resilient for future generations.
"The original hall was a much-loved and well-used space, and it was clear from the start that the community was committed to seeing it rebuilt in a way that honours its legacy while looking to the future.
"The new hall is not only a tribute to the past but also a symbol of hope and renewal. It is environmentally sustainable, accessible and designed to withstand future natural disasters.
"The public consultation sessions played a pivotal role in shaping this project and the feedback from the community enabled us to deliver a focal point for community life for generations to come."
The project was made possible with a $1.3 million grant through the Australian and NSW Governments Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund (BLERF).
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said the project was achieved through government and community working together.
"We are stronger when we work together – this project highlights the benefits of three levels of government working with community towards a shared vision," she said.
"This new community space will be treasured by the Wandella community and I look forward to attending events here in the years to come."
Mayor Fitzpatrick said Council and the Wandella community are extremely grateful for the Australian and NSW Government's financial assistance.
"Without three government tiers and the local community working alongside each other, this project would not have been possible," he said.
The Wandella Hall rebuild project was managed together with the rebuild of Kiah Hall, also destroyed in the Black Summer bushfires, which was officially opened in May 2024.
"Wandella hall has always been a cherished part of the community, and this new iteration continues that tradition," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
For more information on the Wandella Hall rebuild, visit the project page on Council's website.
