Baralaba RSL Memorial Hall, QLD, Gaangalu Country
Baralaba RSL Memorial Hall stands on the traditional lands of the Gaangalu People.
The Hall was built in 1935. Originally called McLellan’s Hall, named after the owners John and Mary McLellan. Many changes have been made to the building, including the stairs previously being situated at the front, back and side. Underneath the hall was a dirt floor where a library was available and playgroup was held. Several people at different stages lived underneath, care-taking the building.
The McLellan Hall was the place to go for many a good time. A ball was held each month with dances in between. There were balls for senior and junior deb shows, CWA, ambulance, hospital and Catholic Church, Church of England, rodeo and race balls, just to name a few. People would travel from afar to attend these events. Meals for the dances were served underneath the hall. China cups were passed around in a large tub, then someone would bring around tea, coffee, sugar and milk, closely followed by sandwiches and home-made cakes. ANZAC services, concerts, church services (before the churches were erected), meetings, hairdressing and numerous other events were also held at the hall.
Outside at the Southern side of the hall boxing tournaments and buck-jumping were special highlights. John McLellan left the hall to one of his grandson’s Donald McLellan. Donald sold the hall to the RSL in 1958. In 2003, the top of the hall was moved slightly to the South thus making it a one level hall. This decision was voted in by the towns people, as well as the Banana Shire Council. The bottom of the hall stayed in its original position with additional work completed, and is now the local play group building. Sadly, the hall’s floors and walls do not shake with all the dancing feet anymore but it is still used for many an event. Lots of fond memories for everyone.
Festival of Small Halls rolls into Baralaba on Friday, 7 October 2022 with Karl S. Williams and Catherine MacLellan.
Meals will be available at the hall catered by the local P&C. A bar will also be available with beer, wine and soft drinks from 6.30pm.
There will also be a raffle and a lucky door prize.
Tickets are priced at:
Full Admission – $20
Child Admission (Aged 15 and Under – Children Must Be Accompanied By An Adult) – $0
Click here to purchase tickets.
Alternatively, you can purchase tickets locally via Polly Bromley, phone 0427981235.
Doors Open 6.30pm
Show Starts 7.00pm
Baralaba RSL Memorial Hall has accessible entry (ramp to door) and has accessible bathrooms.
This show is supported by Banana Shire Council.
Festival of Small Halls events take place in venues operating under an approved QLD Health Covid Safe Event Checklist, and has stringent Workplace Health and Safety requirements for all travelling artists and crew. Under the terms and conditions of all events, you must not attend if you have any symptoms of Covid-19.
Please do your bit to protect others and keep your community safe.