Residents and visitors to the Toowoomba CBD may have noticed the refreshed exterior of the Soldiers' Memorial Hall, particularly the new Herries Street entry, as part of the rehabilitation works completed this month.
Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Mayor Paul Antonio said he was pleased with the refurbishment of the State Heritage-listed building and was looking forward to it being available for the community again.
"We're excited for the new chapter in this building's story. There has been a lot of work to preserve the historical elements of the building while improving its access, along with much needed upgrades to plumbing, electrical, data and air conditioning services," Mayor Antonio said.
"These works will extend the building's lifespan, broaden its serviceability and bring it into the modern era, with respect for its long-standing past."
The Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development, Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm said "It is great to see the benefit the restoration and renovation will have for those who use the hall and the broader community."
"Local projects like this play an important role in the community, to both reflect on history while also enabling a space for local organisations, businesses and individuals to use.
"The Albanese Government is committed to delivering community infrastructure and services all over Australia regardless of location and the Toowoomba Soldiers' Memorial Hall is an example of this commitment".
TRC Environment and Community Committee Chair Cr James O'Shea said the new Herries Street entry, with the connection to the new lift, was a wonderful addition to the building.
"This functional change in the layout for entry to the hall improves the use of space and access for the RSL Sub-branch and other like-minded community groups who will use this building in the future," Cr O'Shea said.
Along with renovating and restoring areas of the original hall, the project also involved demolishing partition walls and reconstructing new spaces within the building to reconfigure the space for modern-day use, providing office, meeting room and function spaces, including People with a Disability-compliant facilities and an updated kitchen.
These works were carried out by local contractors Northbuild, under the architectural and heritage guidance during the construction works by Aspect Architects and Project Managers.
"The focus of these refurbishment works has been on the more significant front section of the building, which was originally constructed between 1923 and 1931 over two stages, however essential structural and maintenance works was performed in the dance hall and basement areas," Cr O'Shea said.
"Council is appreciative of the funding provided by the Australian Government for these current works."
The $4.4 million upgrade of the Soldiers' Memorial Hall is jointly funded by the Australian Government through Building Better Regions Fund and Toowoomba Regional Council.
