Pithara Hall receives State heritage listing

A country town hall that once served as a military hospital in World War ll has been State heritage listed.

  • 1931 Pithara Hall and Supper Room State heritage listed 

A country town hall that once served as a military hospital in World War ll has been State heritage listed.

Heritage Minister Albert Jacob said Pithara Hall and Supper Room was highly valued by the small agricultural town in the Shire of Dalwallinu.

"This building is a landmark in the town centre of Pithara and is much loved for the memories it evokes of civic and social events that have taken place in the hall," Mr Jacob said.

"Social participation is essential in rural towns and the local hall is the focal point for social activities.  It provides a place for the community to feel connected and united.

"Pithara Hall and Supper Room is a good representative example of regional halls built during the depression, at a time when many rural towns were struggling financially."

Since construction in 1931, the rendered brick, multi-room hall has held public meetings and a multitude of leisure activities including dances, sporting club activities and movies nights, which have enriched the community's experience of rural life.

The hall even served as a military hospital during World War ll when an armoured division and three army camps were based around Pithara because of the threat of Japanese invasion.  The main room became an operating theatre with tents outside acting as wards.

The adjoining supper room was built in 1956, replacing the original 1918 timber town hall.

Pithara Hall and Supper Room remain relatively unchanged since their construction.  The hall was closed around 1999 because of water and termite damage, and requires upgrading to meet regulations.  However, the supper room is still being used by local groups.

"Pithara continues to serve as a base for the local farming community and the many visitors in spring when wildflowers bloom in the region," the Minister said.

"Pithara Hall and Supper Room encapsulates the history of this small community, which was once a thriving town on a main railway line that assisted in the expansion of agriculture."

Fact File

Minister's office - 6552 5800