This year marks a remarkable milestone for the Port Neill community – the Port Neill War Memorial Hall turned 100.
In 1925, the land on which the hall now stands was purchased by the Carrow community, and construction soon began.
Over time, Carrow became known as Port Neill, and the hall was renamed the Port Neill War Memorial Hall.
Despite these changes, the hall has always remained a true community asset – owned and maintained by locals, for locals.
To celebrate its centenary, the hall committee hosted a birthday open day on Sunday 5 October.
Guests enjoyed morning and afternoon tea, along with a sausage sizzle lunch.
Banners used for the town’s centennial celebrations were proudly rehung in the hall, while displays of photos from events across the decades and a continuous projection of school concerts and taekwondo classes added a wonderful sense of nostalgia.
Mayor Geoff Churchett welcomed attendees and introduced Tumby Bay RSL Sub-Branch president Geoff Blackwell, who shared a brief history of the RSL’s involvement in Port Neill and Wharminda.
He then led the recital of the Ode of Remembrance.
Mayor Churchett continued by reflecting on the hall’s history and its ongoing importance to the Port Neill community.
He then joined committee president Louise McDonough to cut the centenary birthday cake.
The committee was delighted with the strong turnout and the warm community spirit that filled the hall throughout the day – a fitting celebration for a building that has stood at the heart of Port Neill life for a century.
