Community invited to submit feedback on future of Narrandera Industrial Hall

Crown Lands is inviting the community to have their say about future potential uses of the Narrandera Industrial Hall, a 120-year-old state heritage listed building at Narrandera Showground in the Riverina region.

Narrandera Industrial Hall was constructed in 1902 and demonstrated the resilience of the local community during the Federation Drought.

The octagonal hall with its distinctive bell-shaped roof is considered a rare example of the Federation Free Classical architectural style, and a unique showground structure from the Victorian and Federation eras. It was added to the NSW State Heritage Register on 10 August 2015.

The hall, which is located on Crown land managed by a Crown land manager board, has in the past served as a pavilion showcasing local arts, crafts, and agricultural achievements. The building is currently fenced off due to structural issues to ensure public safety.

The community’s feedback will help shape future remediation options to restore safe use of the hall and support planning for its future. Community feedback is open for 14 days from 20 March to 3 April. For more information on how to have your say, visit Crown land construction, repairs and upgrades.

Crown Lands will continue to liaise with the community, including both current and some former Narrandera Showground board members, to better understand the rich history of the site.

Meanwhile, Crown Lands will move to appoint a new Narrandera Showground board in September when the current board’s tenure ends, with members of the community to later be invited to apply.

Becoming a volunteer Crown land manager is a rewarding role and will allow you to have a significant say in the future of the showground’s assets.

Crown Lands South West Area Manager Grant Marsden said:

“The Narrandera Industrial Hall is one of the state’s most distinctive showground buildings that was built during the Federation Drought showing the optimism of the local community.

“This rare building is an example of heritage architecture worth preserving as it showcases the history, culture and craftsmanship of the time while also serving as a gathering and exhibition place for the community.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The NSW Government is focused on building better communities and investing in our regions is a huge priority.

“I encourage Narrandera residents to have their say about the future of the historic Narrandera Industrial Hall to ensure this unique showground structure can continue to serve the Riverina community.”