From the past: A clipping from Kyabram Free Press from 1922.
In 1922 it was described as a “handsome structure” and on the opening night 150 couples attended a dance there “with unabated vigour”.
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By modern architectural standards the cement-brick Girgarre Memorial Hall is nothing flash — but it made a powerful statement to the rural community.
The district had given up its sons to fight in the Great War (1914-19) and across the Goulburn Valley communities scraped together the money for memorials to recall their sacrifice.
No doubt they would be satisfied that the £2000 raised for the Girgarre hall had created a monument that would last 100 years.
The hall was opened by Fathers Association president John Clayton.
The newspaper report from 1922 stated: “The building was erected to the memory of their brave lads who now lie on the other side and who had gone and fought so grandly for their King and country.
“To their relatives and those near and dear to them, he extended his deepest sympathy.”
Mr Clayton referred to the hall as a landmark to the district, the report said: ... and he would like to add a word to the diggers and that was to see that they looked after it and made it stand out for all time.
Using the platform to express his indignity, Mr Clayton criticised the situation where widowed mothers of deceased soldiers could not claim a pension.
He noted there were about 230 returned soldier settlers working the land in the Girgarre district.
On Saturday, March 5, the Girgarre community will celebrate the anniversary of the opening of the Girgarre hall, starting at 11.30am.
Also to be recognised at this event is the formation in 1920 of the Girgarre sub-branch of the Returned Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Imperial League of Australia (RSSILA), now known as the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL).
The RSL room in Station St, Girgarre, will be open on the day for visitors to view displays and memorabilia from 10am to 11.15am and following the luncheon.
Anyone intending to attend should contact the following for catering purposes by February 23: Sandra McDonald, phone 5854 6324; or Jenny Wadelton on 0409 929 031.
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