Introduction to the Porongurup Community Association
The Porongurup Community Association Inc. (PCA) is a small but active not for profit group of volunteers whose objective is to foster community spirit and fellowship in the Porongurup. The Porongurup Hall is leased from the local Shire of Plantagenet and Porongurup Hall hire is managed by the PCA.
Our PCA committee welcomes you to our venue. President: Scott Drummond; Treasurer: Fiona Glen; Secretary: Helen Purves; Committee Members: Dylan Kennedy, Strawb Healy, Leanne Cluett, Susanne Woytaszek, Sayah Drummond and Lucia Quearry.
Free PCA Membership
If you wish to keep up to date with the activities at the hall, the PCA offer a free membership. As part of your membership you agree to receive 2 to 3 email updates each year.
Please click on this link for our Membership Form.
About the Porongurup Hall
The Porongurup Hall stands on the the traditional lands of the Menang People.
It is located at 2257 Porongurup Rd, Porongurup WA 6324.
Local Hall hire is available for functions, events, groups and get togethers. Just click Book your event and we will be in touch to confirm your booking.
What's included with the historical Porongurup Hall Hire?
Please refer to the Hall Hire Booking Conditions.
Maximum Capacity:
- 120 pax
- Microwave
- Oven
- Hot water system
- Fridge
- Rain water
- Cutlery
- Plates
- Wine Glasses
- Mugs etc. (not commercial)
Included Hall Equipment:
- 100 chairs (bench seats are also available)
- Enclosed Wood Fire place
- Trestle tables
History of the Porongurup Hall
The Porongurup Hall was erected by the local community in 1913 at a cost of £110 ($220) and was initially used as a school for the growing district.
The first teacher was Miss Daisy Wilson, later to become Mrs Claud Baesjou. The Hall was officially opened by Mr Price, M.L.A.
The Hall Committee received £5 ($10) per week from the Education Department for the use of the hall. This rental was later reduced to sixpence (5 cents) per week!
The Hall was extended in 1923 and again in 1935 when pioneers of the district planted red flowering gums to mark the occasion.
At one time, in 1919 the future of the Hall was in jeopardy as it had been suggested that it be moved to Tingellup, some ten miles from Mount Barker, on the Porongurup Road. However, after a letter of protest had been forwarded to the Public Works Department, the district retained its hall.
It has served many organisations in its day including the Porongurup Pasture Improvement Group, Bush Fire Brigade, Country Women’s Association, church groups, picture shows, political meetings as well as being used for recreational activities. Today, the hall is still the focal point of community life in Porongurup.
The Hall is located in the Porongurup National Park Area, which is rich in natural and cultural heritage and classed as one of the world’s 25 biodiversity “Hotspots”.
Newsworthy mentions
Further historical references have been noted in archival newspapers.
‘Porongurup Hall: Tenders are being called for the alterations and additions to the Porongurup Hall. The tenders close on Monday 23rd September 1935, and the plans and specifications can be inspected at the Plantagenet Road Board Office, and at Mr Faulkner’s Karribank Porongurup.’ The Southern Sentinel newspaper dated 13 September 1935 on page 1, with the Porongorup Hall call for tenders
The Porongorups: It is pleasing to note the progress that being made in this district, as evidenced by the alterations and additions which have been made to the Porongurup Agricultural Hall. The building has now quite an imposing appearance, and with a floor space of 58 feet x 30 feet there should be ample room for dancing. A new roof has been put over the structure, which reflects every credit on Mr. A. Jones, of Mt. Barker, who has been responsible for the work. The interior of the building now presents a pleasing appearance, the walls lined with jarrah dado and ceilyte. The re-opening ceremony will be performed by Mr Watts, M.L.C., on Saturday, December 14, at 8 p.m., to be followed by a Plain and Fancy Masked Ball.
The Albany Advertiser newspaper dated 5 December 1935 on page 7.
Refer to historical images below for complete article.
