TAKE THE NEW CIVIC HALL HISTORICAL TOUR:

A new online resource is available now to help you take The Civic Hall Historical Tour.  There is so much to see and learn…discover what led to the inception of the Ballarat Civic Hall from the earlier predecessor halls.   Learn how the Civic Hall fits into the Heritage Precinct and how it is linked to the discovery of gold in the district.  There is a plaque to commemorate the planting of two rare  Ginkgo Trees, believed to be living fossils.  As the weather warms up, take the challenge, its a self-paced tour, you will be surprised what you will see along the way.  

The Civic Hall is one of Ballarat’s most imposing buildings and a fine example of Stripped Classical Art Deco Style.  Designed by Architect Herbert Leslie Coburn and Gordon Murphy.  It  was built by local builder WB Trahar.  Bricks were supplied by local Ballarat company Selkirks.  It was fitted out by local companies and trades people.  

The clever design makes use of the undulating land and is a cross diagonal design that incorporates a large main auditorium  and a smaller Lower Civic Hall.   Seating Capacity  is around 1500 in the main hall and 400 in the Lower Hall.  It was the largest building project undertaken outside Melbourne after  World War 2.  The Civic Hall opened 20th August 1956.

The Civic Hall is currently undergoing a Community Participatory Design Process to determine its use for future generations.  The Save Civic Hall group will advocate for the conservation of the hall’s heritage and preserve its integrity as a multi-purpose, major events venue.

You can contribute your ideas for the Civic Hall or view the current work by consultants Here Studio at the foyer of the Civic Hall :  Tuesdays  9-5pm, Thursdays 12-7pm.  The 1st Saturday of the Month 10am-1pm.

http://walkingmaps.com.au/walk/2315