BARHAM KOONDROOK HISTORICAL SOCIETY

March Meeting Highlights

By Christine Dartnell

There were seven members present at the March meeting. The Easter raffle is in progress, to be drawn at the Mardi Gras in Barham on Saturday, April 3. The members are starting to prepare items for display for the Barham Show in October. 

Research activities are keeping the volunteers at the Society very busy. These mainly include the Barham and Koondrook race courses, Koondrook street scenes, the Koondrook tramway and the Koondrook Baptist Church. The Society is looking for any history and photos that are connected with these research activities. 

The Koondrook Baptist Church has been restumped, the front foyer and kitchen areas refurbished and painted. Now waiting for extra funds to assist with the painting of the main hall, and sanding and sealing of the floor boards throughout the interior of the building. The shipping container is hired until April 12 so the need to complete the renovations is of paramount importance. 

We talked of when an official opening might be, the invitation list and what historical photos etc to display. Grant applied to replace the roof which would then seal up the gaps to prevent birds nesting throughout the ceiling space. 

Due to limited work and storage space, the cost of a permanent shipping container or other building/shed is being investigated. The possibility of having a builder quote on the installation of a ramp at the rear of the Myall school building (the office) and at the rear of the former Koondrook Baptist Church in preparation for further grant funding being available was discussed. 

An interpretive sign is to be developed of sponsors of the Historical Society projects. An interpretive sign is to be developed on Stan Roberts and his generous donation to the Historical Society. 

Discussion on ideas for the 2022 calendar included old farm properties. 

Change of email address to bkhs3580@gmail.com.