It’s hard to imagine now how many people lived in the Boyeo area 100 hundred years ago.
With small farms and large families, 4 local schools all within 5 miles and more not much further away, the Boyeo recreation reserve was a constant venue of activity. Football and cricket competitions started early in the century and tennis in 1920; the only thing missing was a community centre for locals to meet, socialise, relax and be protected from the elements. Plans were completed, funds raised, the building erected and a grand opening organised for Wednesday, 12th November 1923.
A full day of activities complete with a concert and dancing was the start of a very busy era for the hall, which became the venue of choice for local wedding receptions, kitchen teas, birthday parties, concerts, dances, combined school sports day, afternoon tea pavilion for cricket, meetings of all descriptions, war rallies, polling booth and the annual Christmas tree.
Today the area has nearly completed the full circle, larger farms, small families, all sport either concluded or moved to Nhill and the hall being used only a few times each year.
However, it is home to the history of several schools, the district honour boards and the memories of locals.
A fun day is being planned for the centenary, with plenty of time to arrive, a midday feast, a short official session and heaps of opportunities to chat, check the memorabilia displays, wander through the memorial tree plantation and renew past friendships.
So save the date; Boyeo Hall To Celebrate Centenary, Sunday 12th November, 2023.
This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 4 October 2023.
