Dorrigo residents, community groups and local organisations will have access to improved facilities for events, meetings and conferences following a major audio-visual upgrade to the Dorrigo Community Hall.
The new technology is expected to broaden the range of activities the Hickory Street venue can host while helping Dorrigo attract larger conferences and events to town.
The upgrade includes an automatically retractable 4.2-metre by 2.5-metre rear-projection screen, a second large display screen and conferencing technology.
The hall’s free community Wi-Fi will also be enhanced to support the new equipment.
Bookings have already begun for the upgraded facilities, with the hall able to accommodate up to 200 people.
The audio-visual equipment was donated by a local private benefactor, with the Dorrigo Community Hall Committee expressing its gratitude for the contribution.
The improvements add to a growing list of facilities available to the community, including air conditioning, a semi-commercial kitchen, sound system, hearing loop, accessible bathrooms, conference room and commercial dishwasher.
The hall is already a hub for local activities, hosting indoor bowls, Zumba, yoga, ballroom dancing, art exhibitions and conferences.
It can also accommodate weddings, memorials, school formals, speech days and community education events.
Committee members believe the upgraded facilities will provide further opportunities for local organisations while strengthening Dorrigo’s ability to attract conferences and other large gatherings.
Bringing more events to the town could also provide flow-on benefits for local accommodation providers, restaurants and other businesses.
The hall continues to play an important role during community emergencies and major events, following upgrades linked to resilience needs after floods and fires.
That role was demonstrated during this year’s Anzac Day commemorations, when the hall was opened at short notice as a weather relief venue.
Something going on in your part of the North Coast people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nctimes.com.au