On Saturday 23 November the Cardinia Hall celebrated 100 years of community spirit in grand style.
Despite the hot weather, over one hundred people attended to listen to speakers reminiscing on the past century.
Guest speakers included historian Heather Arnold, Cr Samantha-Jane Potter, Ian Ridgway, Graeme Dodson, Dr Joy Humphrey, Bernadette Feeley, Liz Bergmeier and Lyn McGillivray (by recorded message).
Each speaker attested to the life of a time gone by when community spirit was so much part of their everyday lifestyle.
The hall was built because the community needed a place where members of the local Primary School, Presbyterian church and sporting groups could meet.
The hall brought friends and family together and over the years they celebrated birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, deb balls, dances and a range of other types of activities.
Built and maintained through much fundraising by local families, the Cardinia Hall made a name for itself with its magnificently polished floor, maintained to a high standard for the Friday night dances.
When Andrew Bergmeier MC read out the names of the founding families, he asked that everyone who was related to these families put their hands up and many hands raised.
The cutting of the Centenary Cake was done by Life Members Joan Conroy and Ian Ridgway. Ms Conroy is older than the hall at 101 years and her attendance was especially appreciated by all present.
They are among six life members including Joy de Jong.
Allan Armstrong, Bob Beazley and Pam Ridgway are the remaining three, who have all passed away.
The hall is now under the management of Cardinia Shire and the organising committee would like to thank the council for their support in helping to make the day a success.
The hall was lined with a photograph display and memorabilia provided by members of the community.
Congratulations to the town of Cardinia for over 100 years of community spirit.
