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Committee to drive community hub

December 16, 2020 BY

Events, meetings and storage: The Linton Shire Hall is a Sussex Street focal point. Photo: EDWINA WILLIAMS

THE Linton Shire Hall is set to gain a committee of management, and Golden Plains Shire is seeking expressions of interest from members of the community.

Linton and District Progress Association president Kylie Turville has been working with the Shire to plan the best approach for the town asset, which is a base for grassroots groups.

“We’re hoping we get a really good group of people that are energetic, have great ideas and good contacts, especially in the creative arts area,” she said.

“It’s going to be a big role, so we want and need people that are willing to do something and work with current groups, not forget about them.”

The building is “quite massive,” with old council chambers, storage underneath, a lobby, offices and an additional large area which has been used as archival storage.

“All of these spaces could be utilised and have different functions for a multitude of things, like community events, records storage and meetings. We might even be able to rent out the rooms,” Ms Turville said.

“Some of the ideas include spaces for artists in residence, exhibitions, a community shop, and visiting healthcare providers. The local gardening group are hoping to do some work around the back and store equipment.”

Progress Association members are excited by the possibility of a bustling building being home to new and established community groups, instead of an empty space.

“We want to keep it open for all the people that currently use it, like the play reading group, the Cemetery Trust and our food relief pantry, which has been well supported by our community, but receives no funding,” Ms Turville said.

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Helena Kirby said the former Shire of Grenville building is an important part of the heart of Linton.

“With the Smythesdale Well now providing full-time customer service for the Shire’s north, we’re inviting interested Lintonians to put their hand up to join the committee of management, to ensure this historic building in Linton remains active and a place that brings the community together,” she said.

“Once formed, the committee will manage the hall, including facilitating community bookings and usage of the building’s rooms.”

Visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au for more information, including nomination forms, which need be submitted to [email protected] by Friday, 8 January.