July 16th, 2025Your Say

Re: Just Sayin’ – Town Hall Hub Development (Edition 335)
As members of the Daylesford Town Hall Project Advisory Group, we write to clarify recent commentary and reinforce why investment in the Town Hall is critical for our community.
Despite speculation, no construction will commence unless council commits and external grant funding is secured. That said, strategic planning and minor improvements if desired – such as access upgrades – could begin immediately to return the hall to optimal use while grant applications are underway.
Daylesford accounts for nearly 43 per cent of Hepburn Shire’s population yet remains underserved in community facilities. Other towns in the shire enjoy purpose-built hubs and modern libraries; Daylesford has been left behind due to failed management of The Rex. We cannot afford to let this happen again.
The Town Hall redevelopment is more than a refurbishment – it’s an investment in the social fabric, cultural vitality, and future resilience of our town. Enhancing accessibility with a lift, improving lighting, and upgrading facilities would not only preserve the hall’s heritage but also support a broader range of performances, meetings, and cultural events. This matters deeply to our population, with many struggling with current access and set-up demands.
Combining a new library and community space within the Town Hall precinct is smart, inclusive, and efficient. The current library is outdated, undersized, difficult for staff and does not provide an optimal space for all those that could use it. New plans meet modern library standards and offer a welcoming, safe, climate-resilient space – vital in times of extreme heat or cold. Importantly, this would provide a free public gathering point in a town where many meeting spaces require commercial spending.
The PAG has worked constructively, consulting widely and balancing diverse needs. We fully support the proposed design, and the current budget allocation – drawn from the sale of The Rex – allows for either a comprehensive plan or a first stage that unlocks grant eligibility. Council holds the decision-making power.
Creswick, Clunes and Trentham are already well-equipped. It’s time Daylesford received its fair share. A revitalised Town Hall with preserved heritage will serve locals, attract visitors, and breathe life back into a landmark that should be a proud community hub – not a missed opportunity.

• Louise Johnson, Matt Johnson, Sarah Bibby and Adam Fawcett