On Saturday, March 28, at Junee Reefs-Ivor Hall, they celebrated 100 years of the Hall itself, which was a packed day for all.
Margaret Drum of the Hall said the celebrations were a great success, with approximately 260 people attending, with many travelling distances to relive and reminisce over times associated with events held at the Hall.
“The display of memorabilia set up in the Hall created much interest and the sharing of stories. The photos, articles and reports covered Junee Reefs history, the Gold Rush, the Opening of the Hall, a Timeline and Office-bearers since 1924, the Junee Reefs School, the moving of the Monument from the old school grounds to the Hall, ANZAC Day Ceremonies, family histories, St John’s Church and Parish maps,” she said.
of Junee Reefs, the Hall, and of course, local identities from the past 100 years.
“The Chairman of the Hall Committee, Mr Glenn Curry, gave a brief history of the Hall before welcoming invited guests – Steph Cooke MP of Cootamundra, Mrs Kay Hull, former MP for Riverina and Mr David Carter representing the Junee Shire and all in attendance. Steph Cooke addressed the importance of community spirit and community involvement, while Mrs Kay Hull recalled working with the Hall Committee in the 1990’s and 2000’s on projects that she, as a member of Parliament, was involved in attaining grants. These included the building of flushing toilets at the rear of the Hall, the renovation of the supper room, the rebuild of the kitchen and the movement of the Monument from the old school grounds, which was quite a huge effort. Mr David Carter recalled the importance of the Hall to the Community and how it has been a meeting place for many different purposes.
“Mr Robert Hillam was invited to unveil the Opening Plaque. The Hillam name goes back to 1905, and Mr Ross Hillam was President at the Opening Ceremony of the Hall in 1926. Mr Jim Harris unveiled the Centenary Plaque. The Harris Family have been connected to the district since the early 1800’s. Jim spoke of the importance of the Hall to the District. The Centenary Cake was cut by Mr George Brabin. George has been Secretary/Treasurer from 1992 till 2021, when he took on the sole role of Treasurer.
“A highlight of the day was the vintage tractor/machinery display, which was organised by Mr Bernard Hart. This was possible through the efforts of local farmers and other nearby machinery enthusiasts. There was a machine representing each decade of the past Century.
“Mr Rick and Mrs Susan Pratt organised a wonderful array of games from the past century for the children, who all had a lot of fun participating.
“The day concluded with a BBQ tea cooked by Junee Rotary Club.”
[Photography by Peter Neve OAM]
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