Minister for Western NSW and Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall outside the Tenterfield & District Soldiers Memorial Hall, which will undergo a $440,000 upgrade.
Wednesday, 21 October 2020
TENTERFIELD’S largest entertainment venue, the Memorial Hall, is set to undergo a significant upgrade to improve acoustics and sound quality, with Northern Tablelands MP and Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall today announcing a $440,000 State Government Drought Stimulus Grant for the project.
Mr Marshall said the funds will replace existing mouldy acoustic baffles throughout the building.
“Like many buildings of its kind and era, the Memorial Hall is large, cavernous and echoey, making it difficult for patrons to hear when large numbers of people gather,” Mr Marshall said.
“The existing acoustic baffles, which were installed to deal with that noise, are mouldy and will be replaced with new industry best acoustic panels.
“To counteract any potential health risks caused by mould, the hall will also be fumigated, with treatment to be carried out by a qualified specialist.
“Internal insulation will be added to eliminate building condensation and future mould, helping to protect the building’s internal infrastructure.”
In 2018 the State Government provided almost $1 million to modernise the hall, installing new amenities, retractable seating, sound and lighting equipment and air-conditioning.
Tenterfield Shire Mayor Peter Petty said these improvements will enable the Memorial Hall to host large events and attractions.
“This work is part of a Council strategy to rebuild confidence in our retail and tourism sectors,” Cr Petty said.
“Many high-profile performances and activities proposed in the past have been unwilling to come to Tenterfield because of a lack of appropriate facilities and performance space.
“While the Tenterfield School of Arts is an impressive venue, it can only seat 200 people, meaning ticket sales for events are greatly restricted.
“I hope carrying out these improvements will encourage a wider and more diverse use of the Memorial Hall, allowing for conferences, plays, large events and social gatherings.
“Council has found in the past cultural events have played an important role in attracting overnight visitation to town, stimulating all areas of our economy.
“By making the Memorial Hall more attractive as a venue I expect we will start to see more shows and events being held there each year, which is good for the social wellbeing of residents as well as injecting additional dollars into local businesses.”