There have been big changes at Canungra School of Arts Hall, with its longstanding and hard-working committee recently handing over duties to a brand-new committee.
Canungra and the surrounding community owe a deep debt of gratitude to the retiring committee of Derek and Vicki Finch, Margaret and David Day, Marilyn Tynan, and Judy, Neville and Troy Hartley.
Vicki, a committee member for 30 years, has witnessed many changes at the hall, including: air-conditioning installed kitchen upgraded showers and toilets for disabled users installed bar and cold room upgraded, and sound system installed.
Cr Virginia West said the outgoing committee members had presided over a period of continuous improvement at the hall which was one of the best multi-purpose venues in the Scenic Rim.
“They are to be commended for their vision and legacy for this magnificent hall.”
“Vicki Finch has led the charge by never missing a grant opportunity and being so successful with her applications.”
“I thank the outgoing committee very sincerely on behalf of our community and am filled with confidence that the new committee will continue its long-term vision.”
The new committee comprises Jane Anderson (President and Bookings), Jade Finch (Vice President) Courtney Guerin (Treasurer), Carlie Simpson (Secretary). Jane said the hall -a registered crisis centre with the Scenic Rim Regional Council -played a major role in community life.
“It’s an impressive, well designed, maintained and utilised multi-purpose venue that will continue to support the local and wider community for a very long time to come,” she said.
“It’s ideal for indoor fitness classes, dances, concerts, wedding receptions, town meetings, exhibitions, markets and fetes.“
“Council activities are held there, and it plays an important role for the Beaudesert and District Orchid and Foliage Society, Toastmasters and Pink Assist.”
It’s been a long journey since the official opening of the first School of Arts building in 1887. This was followed by a large community-built hall in 1912, which was burned to the ground in 1946 and was replaced by the present structure in 1956.
