Gwydir Shire Council Design and Assets Manager Alex Eddy, left, Warialda Physical Culture Club’s Karen Moxey, Director Technical Services Richard Jane, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, General Manager Max Eastcott and Mayor John Coulton outside the Warialda Memorial Hall.
Monday, 19 March 2018
THE focal point of the Warialda community will soon see more usage than ever before, with a new commercial kitchen and air conditioning upgrades planned for the Warialda Memorial Hall thanks to a $325,426 NSW Government grant.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall was in Warialda last Friday and announced that Gwydir Shire Council had secured the funding from the government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund, allowing the major upgrades to begin soon.
“Warialda’s Memorial Hall is a vital asset for the community, hosting indoor sports, debutante balls, community awards and school events,” Mr Marshall said.
“Located right in the centre of town, it is the perfect venue for functions and the new kitchen and full heating and cooling will make it even more attractive and comfortable for everyone.
“This project will install air conditioning and a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, providing a fresh and functional space to host community events and indoor sports.
“With air conditioning, the hall will become a comfortable reprieve from Warialda’s scorching summers and freezing winters and council is confident it will see increased usage year-round.
“This will be complimented by the installation of a commercial kitchen, offering the opportunity for local groups to serve hot and cold food and drinks, helping to raise valuable funds and keep hungry crowds happy.
“Last but not least, access for the entire community will be improved through the installation of accessible amenities, bringing the building into line with modern standards.”
Mr Marshall said that these upgrades had been a longstanding priority for the community and council.
“Gwydir Shire Council has been trying to get these works off the ground for a decade, but has always lacked the funds to get them started,” Mr Marshall said.
“Designs have already been drawn up and council is raring to go, with an enthusiastic community keen to see these works get started without delay.
“This funding from the NSW Government’s $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund will allow council to start this shovel-ready project in the coming weeks, with works expected to be completed within the next year.
“This is a vital project for Warialda’s ability to attract visitors from outside the shire, and I look forward to seeing the community make the most of its new and improved War Memorial Hall.”