Memorial Hall, QLD, Bidjara and Iningai Country
Memorial Hall stands on the traditional lands of the Bidjara and Iningai people.
Did you know that Blackall’s Memorial Hall has been the heart of entertainment and community life for generations? From the 1940s to today, it’s hosted everything from Girl Guides Variety Concerts and school plays to country music concerts featuring legends like Slim Dusty, Rick & Thel, and local stars like the Harlow family band. In fact, one local fondly remembers sneaking out to hear Slim Dusty perform—only to be let in by a kind-hearted usher after intermission!
The hall has also seen roller skating, discos, gymnastics and even Sunday night hops that drew crowds of over 200 from nearby towns like Barcaldine and Tambo. And let’s not forget the elegant balls and dances, once brought to life by the sounds of the Johnston Muir Orchestra, led by a wizard on the piano and a rotating cast of talented local musicians.
One standout era was the late 1960s, when the hall rocked to the sounds of The Impacts, a local band that played from 1968 to 1970. With Chooky Norris, Rex Metcalf, and Mark (Monk) Abbott on vocals and Barry Muir on keyboard, they brought unforgettable energy to dances and events.
Today, the hall continues to serve the community, with the Youth Centre in the basement and regular activities for both young people and seniors. Accessibility is provided via a ramp into the front of the building.
Visit: Explore the Blackall Woolscour, Australia’s last remaining steam-powered wool washing plant, or take a stroll along the Blackall Sculpture Trail. Don’t forget a luxurious soak in Blackall’s Artesian Thermal Pool and Spa facility.
Festival of Small Halls returns to Blackall on Thursday, 16 October 2025 with Georgia Mooney and Joe H Henry.
Tickets are priced at:
Full Admission – $15
Child (Aged 17 and under – Must Be Accompanied By An Adult),
Pensioners, Health Care Card, Tertiary Students, Seniors Card, DVA Admission – $5
Tickets are also available at the Blackall Lifestyle & Community Hub, 108a Shamrock Street Blackall.
Call 0746 574 637 for any additional information or enquiries.
