Myponga Hall
Darryl Houston

Darryl Houston, Myponga local and Mayor of the District Council of Yankalilla outlined the work done by the local community to save and restore the Myponga Hall. The foundation stone for the Hall was laid in 1891 and on 18 May 1892 the Hall was officially opened. From then on, it was a much used and loved asset of the Myponga community, hosting many celebrations of significant birthdays and anniversaries, dancing lessons, debutante balls and movie screenings. Improvements were made in 1902 and again in 1924. In 1937 cloak rooms, a foyer, two dressing rooms and a supper room were added. The renovated hall, including the current façade, was opened in 1938.

In its review in 1985 the Yankalilla and District Council recommended that Myponga Hall be noted as a site of local heritage significance. However, usage of the Hall declined in the latter half of the 1900s and early 2000s and it began to fall into disrepair. In 2020 a Myponga Hall Committee was formed and the decision was made to restore and refurbish the Hall.

Since then the Committee and other volunteers from the community have worked hard on a number of projects, funding the work through a number of grants and other fundraising activities. Painting of the entire interior and exterior of the Hall has been completed. Paving and landscaping were done by a team of volunteers and flower beds were installed to commemorate servicemen and women of the township and surrounding areas. Areas that have been transformed include the Hall itself, the stage, the foyer, Supper Room and kitchen. Toilets were added in the entrance area, one fully accessible. Acoustics in the Main Hall and Supper Room have been improved, and gardens established to enhance the surroundings. A defibrillator and solar panels have recently been added. Projects next to tackle are to replace the ceiling of the Main Hall, build a deck out the back and complete a mural on the side of the Hall.

This year the Myponga Hall hosted a highly successful Heritage Fleurieu Coast event, Pongy Fest. Coffee mornings are held every Thursday morning, and are not only a great fundraiser, but a terrific way to socialise and enjoy links within the community and beyond. All welcome.