Moodiarrup Hall

Moodiarrup Hall Restoration Project article (extract from WA News August 2007) available for download.

Moodiarrup Hall was once the heart of the Moodiarrup community; it was a place for celebrations, meetings and sporting events, including the famous Moodiarrup Marathon. Unfortunately, over recent years, the hall has fallen into disrepair and now cannot be used for safety reasons. The community have expressed a strong desire to see the hall restored to its former status so that it can once again provide a venue for community activities and events. The National Trust has been working closely with the Moodiarrup Hall Committee and the Shire of West Arthur to access information and funds to develop the restoration project.

The hall is set on a 31-hectare reserve, next to Arthur River. Constructed in 1925 by Ted Nordstom and TV Williams, it is an excellent example of a local hall from the period. The site’s unique combination of built, natural and cultural heritage values has resulted in its listing on the Shire of West Arthur Municipal Inventory and recognition as an Aboriginal Heritage site. It has also been nominated for classification by the National Trust. Now more than 80 years old, the timber-framed hall is in urgent need of repair. The roof, guttering and external walls in particular require prompt attention in order to maintain the integrity of the structure and conserve the internal features.

With the assistance of the National Trust and community members, the Shire of West Arthur submitted an application to the Lotterywest Conservation of Cultural Heritage Grants Program. The application was successful, resulting in a $14,444 grant, which will fund the development of a conservation plan for the site. The conservation plan represents an important first step in the restoration project, providing a basis for planning future works. The plan will also document the values of the place, with a strong focus on its social significance to the local community.