Former Winchelsea Shire Hall up for lease

THE Surf Coast Shire council is calling for expressions of interest from those wishing to lease the former Winchelsea Shire Hall.

The council has been guided by the Former Winchelsea Shire Hall working group, made up of five residents who have been in consultation with the broader community.

They have formed a set of criteria for potential lease applicants, which are:

· A passion for Winchelsea and district.

· Knowledge of its natural, economic, social, cultural and physical assets.

· Knowledge of its people and networks.

· A track record of delivering activities that provide community benefit.

The cost of leasing the hall will vary on the operator’s ability to provide community benefit through their use of the facilities.

If the successful applicant is a community group or consortium of community groups, then the annual lease fee will be $104.

Surf Coast Shire general manager of culture and community Chris Pike thanked the group for their contributions.

“To Lesley Christie, Sandra Jones, Michael Tucker, Ken Daniels and David Loone, thank you for your time and insight to guide this project over the past 11 months,” he said.

“Your care and passion for the much-loved hall has been evident and is greatly appreciated.”

Over the holiday period, the hall was repainted and had its kitchen refurbished.

Various items of historical significance have also moved to where they are easily visible within the hall.

The Changing Places accessible change room and public toilet will officially open later in the month.

People inquiring about the hall’s future use should contact Anthea Whan bu phoning 5261 0600 or emailing [email protected].