Hall gets thumbs up

By Kath Gannaway
THE redevelopment of Healesville Memorial Hall will move to the next stage following overwhelming support for the concept design presented by architect Greg Burgess last week.
Mr Burgess presented the preliminary design, a reworking of the original master plan, to a community workshop on Monday, 30 November.
The proposed design addressed a number of issues around heritage aspects of the hall including the staircase, ceiling and the dress-circle, in conjunction with its ability to cater for the broad range of existing and future events.
The design would see a foyer space and new entrance built along the eastern side of the building, raked seating, an ‘orchestra’ pit, floor-level stage, an exhibition space, a lift and improved technical facilities for theatre and film shows.
The arched ceiling would be retained with the installation of ‘sail-like’ baffles to counter problems with the acoustics.
There was overwhelming support for the retention of the stairs, with more detailed design and costings to be done before any final decisions were made.
Yarra Ranges Council’s manager arts, culture and heritage Greg Box said it was important that there was a good representation from the community. He said the Yarra Valley Arts Council, Healesville Historical Society, the Open Studios group, RSL, Healesville High School and several other groups and community members were involved.
He said there would be further opportunities for the community to view the design with one option being a Saturday morning display.
Mr Burgess was also pleased with the response.
He said the exciting challenge for him was working with the old and the new to bring some fresh energy and inspiration to what he described as a “much-loved community asset”.
“It’s about setting up a lively conversation between the new bits and the existing building – a conversation where each has respect, the old allowed to have its dignity and the new to have its energy and contemporary qualities,” he said.
“It should be a reflection of the Healesville arts community and of the whole community,” Mr Burgess said.
Cr Jeanette McRae she was also pleased with the level of support for the design and the extent of community engagement.
“I look forward to it happening,” she said.