By Margaret Maccoll
The sledgehammers started swinging last Friday when building approval was issued to restore the Cooroy Memorial Hall and School of Arts in Maple Street.
Cooroy Memorial Hall Association (CMHA) president Paul Kluck said asbestos removalists began work Monday, and on their completion the restoration project would follow under the direction of head contractor Harry Kirk.
A move to demolish the hall seemed the likely option last December, but was overturned by a groundswell of community support to save the iconic building which originally opened in 1926.
Mr Kluck said the CMHA was formed on 4 January, and in only six months had secured almost $100,000 which Noosa Council is matching dollar for dollar.
Last week, Sunshine Coast Community Financial Services Limited (SCCFSL) which manages the Cooroy, Tewantin and Pomona Community Bank branches Bendigo Bank, donated $50,000 to the hall upgrade.
Their donation joins others from local businesses including Supa IGA, Roberts Bros and the Noosa and District Orchid and Foliage Society as well as contributions from individuals including the Bennett family.
“Many people have benefited from the town in money and lifestyle and they want to give back,” Mr Kluck said.
Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington said the way the Cooroy community was rallying to raise funds, gather building materials and labour for the project was impressive, and council was pleased to be supporting the restoration of the hall.
The restoration project will cost $394,000, and the CMHA has enough to secure the work to the half-way mark.
Mr Kluck is hopeful through fund-raising measures and in kind donations the remainder of funds can be obtained.
“We’re looking at skills centre bringing their trainees on board. That’s in kind support and it will be matched dollar for dollar by council,” he said.
“Other businesses may want to donate products or paint and these are also in kind donations.”
Mr Kluck said Cooroy residents were excited to know that the hall, once the focal point of community activity, would soon be open again for the use of all residents.
