Yarrowitch Memorial Hall

About

This war memorial hall is located in Yarrowitch, a pastoral area 48 kilometres east of Walcha. The hall is a typical country building with a gabled roof and a small alcove entrance on the eastern side. Over time the windows have been modified and new cladding attached. On the north side, an extension with a large room has been added to the hall. A large metal pergola with a concrete floor is also located on the north side of the hall to provide an area for outside catering and meetings. The land on which the hall was constructed is a part of Yarrowitch Recreational Reserve. There is a school and church as part of the community located on the southern side of the Oxley Highway. Apart from early pastoral development, the area was created in 1948 as part of the Soldier Settlement Program. The hall was designed and financed by the soldier settlers and residents of the Yarrowitch District, and constructed entirely by voluntary labour. It was officially opened by Mr Davis Hughes, MLA, at a ball held on 27 April 1951. Over 200 people attended the opening ball which was both a financial and social success, with music and dancing continuing well after midnight. The hall was spacious and fitted out with kitchen equipment (The Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser, 27 April 1951). Mr Gill, the president of Apsley Shire Council, congratulated the residents of Yarrowitch on building such a fine hall, which was fully equipped with a 32 volt lightening plant donated by Quirks Victory Lightening Company.

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