Heating and cooling systems and a new acoustic ceiling have transformed the public hall in Laharum, one of Victoria’s tiniest towns.
When it comes to tiny towns, they don't come much smaller than Laharum. In fact, as of the 2021 Census, just 162 people called Laharum home.
Located off the western side of the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd), the town is a place of trees, open fields and big skies.
And, at the centre of all this, is the Laharum Public Hall. Servicing the community for more than 70 years, the hall is an activity point not only for Laharum, but also the nearby towns of Wartook and Brimpaen.
Providing a gathering space for around 350 people, the hall does everything, including weddings, funerals, live performances, yoga classes, art classes and gatherings. Also on the docket are events for the Laharum Demons Football and Netball Club.
The hall also hosts a lively monthly 'soiree' for locals to enjoy.
But more than 70 years of such a rich history can take a toll on a building. In recent years, users found the building too hot in summer, too cold in winter, and very difficult to carry a conversation in because of a persistent echo.
Which is where more than $14,000 from our Tiny Towns Fund came into play.
The funding provided for the installation of an acoustic ceiling in the hall's supper room and 2 split heating and cooling systems.
The upgrades have made the hall an even more welcoming place for people of all ages and abilities throughout the year and ensured that it's easier for everyone to socialise and maintain community connections.
They’ve also ensured that the hall can continue to service the community for many more years to come.
Upgrades to the Laharum Public Hall were one of more than 200 Tiny Towns Fund projects that are being delivered across the state.
From community hall upgrades and improvements to public spaces, to sporting facility upgrades and playground betterments, these projects are making our smallest communities even better places to live, work, stay and play.