NEW projectors and screens have been installed at the Emerald Hill and Mullaley village halls, expanding the range of events and activities they can host.

Gunnedah Shire Council and Telstra’s Connected Communities Grant Program, delivered in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal, funded the upgrades.

More than $12,000 was spent installing laser projectors and 100-inch motorised screens at both halls.

Gunnedah Shire Council community and development director Andrew Johns said the equipment would help the Emerald Hill Progress Association and Mullaley Hall Committee deliver professional events and forums.

“These proactive groups are passionate about improving these historical buildings to meet the changing needs of their communities, and council is glad to support them in this,” he said.

Emerald Hill Progress Association secretary Ali Chaffey said the hall was used by groups including Ooranga Playgroup, exercise classes, GrainCorp and Landcare organisations.

It also hosts family reunions, the village Christmas party and Gunnedah Shire Council meetings.

“I can see that projector being used by so many different people in so many different ways,” Ms Chaffey said.

The Mullaley community has already taken advantage of the new technology, gathering for a family movie night. Photo: Gunnedah Shire Council.

 

“The hall itself is such a special space. It’s 104 years old now and to see it maintained and cared for, and also utilised and modernised, so it can continue to be relevant for all those user groups, it’s such a special thing.

“It really does facilitate people coming together.”

Mullaley Hall Committee member Georgina Gavel said the hall connected the community and provided an important gathering place during day-to-day life and difficult periods such as droughts and floods.

“It is the location for many community events, workshops and celebrations, live music, barbecues, forums, council meetings, get-togethers, and touring country roadshows, and is pivotal to our community’s emotional resilience and mental health,” she said.

“Our small volunteer committee relies on fundraising and grants like the Telstra Connected Communities Grant Program to improve the amenity of the hall and to purchase equipment and infrastructure that would otherwise be out of reach.

“The equipment will enable our committee to enhance our capacity to run professional meetings, workshops and presentations at the hall and extend the reach of our audience, while attracting new events and activities at the hall.”