hall history
The historic Oxley Shire Hall was built in 1875. It was used as the Council Chambers for the Oxley Shire until 1966 and is believed to be the oldest continually used community building in North- East Victoria.
By the mid 1970’s, the hall was virtually derelict and facing demolition. As new residents moved into the Oxley township its importance as a significant historical building and as a community meeting point was fully appreciated, so a campaign was commenced to save it.
In 1974, the façade of the building was classified by the National Trust as – “Worthy of Preservation”.
A local Committee, of volunteers, authorised by the Rural City of Wangaratta now manages and oversees the hall’s operations.
In 1997 the Main Hall area was restored and renovated.
In 2002 the Supper Room and Kitchen was re-built.
In 2005 the Meeting room was extended and internal toilets built.
The restoration works have been made possible because of Grants from the State and Federal Government and the Rural City of Wangaratta as well as continual community fund raising (in particular the annual Oxley Bush Market) and thousands of hours of volunteer labour.