Where Korweingy comes together

By Tina Seirlis

A motivated new Committee of Management is hoping to give a new lease of life to a local Reserve and Hall, ensuring the site flourishes as a gathering place for community, visitors, and celebrations.

The Korweinguboora Recreation Reserve land, owned by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA),  has enjoyed different uses over the years but was heading towards a state of decline. The Reserve grounds are said to have opened in 1969 becoming the home of the Korweinguboora Football Club through to 1982. The old Korweinguboora School building was purchased by a previous Committee of Management in 1992 and moved to the site, instantly doubling the size of the facility with the site utilised for various sports, camps and events.

A new committee has since formed after the previous chair moved to Queensland, with local Sue Bottrell now holding the position of Chair. The committee comprises six volunteer members including two long-term locals who also held committee positions during the eighties, three who are reasonably new to the area, and one who is from Williamstown but loves the Hall.

Ms Bottrell, who became a permanent resident of Korweinguboora in 2022 said the new committee is working hard to restore it to the wonderful community asset it should be.

“We want to see it come alive with community events and become a space that is hired out for special occasions and groups to come and enjoy everything the area has to offer,” she said.

“The hall has wonderful facilities including a kitchen, showers, a lovely hall and an amazing full-size oval. It is 15 minutes from Daylesford but sits in a gorgeous bush setting. Kangaroos will visit in the mornings, and it is a great spot to see the stars. It can cater for large groups including caravanners and campers.”

While the Hall and Reserve are generally available for bookings, the Committee has donated use towards the upcoming Big Adventure 2.0 breast cancer fundraiser, led by local woman Abbey Wehrung in honour of her mother Kerryn.

The Committee which meets once a month is also on the lookout for new volunteers to help support everything from day-to-day bookings, responding to queries, grants and quotes, through to outdoor events such as theatre nights and a Christmas party. Those hoping to volunteer can email [email protected] and do not have to have any particular skills, just a willingness to help out.

On hopes for the future, Ms Bottrell said they are focused on bringing the hall back to its former glory and making it the most sought-after event location both for hire and for the community.

“It is the most wonderful asset for Korweinguboora and brings people together to develops bonds and friendship. In these times of unprecedented loneliness and isolation, it is very important,” Ms Bottrell said.

Bookings can be made via Hipcamp.