BLACKTOWN CITY HISTORY
Mt Druitt Hall: a century of community spirit
by Greg Martin
The Mt Druitt Hall is looking pictureperfect as it prepares to celebrate its centenary. Since its establishment in 1925, the hall has been a cornerstone of the community, hosting a vast array of events for residents of all ages. A Celebration to Remember There will be plenty of movement on the roads and footpaths as the people of Mount Druitt gather to commemorate their beloved community hall’ s 100th anniversary on Sunday, 13 April.
Over the decades since its construction in 1925( yes, I can do the maths!), the hall has served its community in countless ways, becoming an integral part of local life. And when something— or someone— reaches a century, a grand celebration is inevitable.
Reg Murray, patron of the Mt Druitt Historical Society— and a man who has passed through the hall’ s doors on countless occasions— assures that the centenary festivities will be unforgettable.
“ The event kicks off at midday, and the old girl will be looking her absolute best to welcome her guests,” Reg said.
“ There will be plenty of food and refreshments, music to soothe both the wild and the tame, a jumping castle, and a fantastic photographic exhibition showcasing the hall’ s rich history.”
A Hub of Community Life
Built through generous community donations and various fundraising efforts, the hall has played many roles throughout its century-long existence. It has served as a cinema, dance hall, function centre, sports venue, concert hall, and a cherished setting for weddings and birthday celebrations.
Blacktown City Council took over management of the hall in 1967, restoring it to its original grandeur and later giving it another facelift in 1986. This latest milestone will see the hall looking as magnificent as ever to greet its birthday guests. The Hall’ s Cinematic Past For much of its life, Mt Druitt Hall functioned as a cinema, screening its first films in 1946. A local legend,“ Uncle Dick” Simpson, was at the heart of these film nights— selling tickets, operating the projector, and even serving refreshments during intermission.
Dick, a Royal Australian Air Force( RAAF) veteran who served overseas during World War II, spent his final years stationed at a RAAF base in Mt Druitt. He quickly fell in love with the area and remained there for the rest of his long life, passing away at the
Looking pretty as a picture for her centenary celebrations is the Mt Druitt Hall. The hall has been a focal part of the community since 1925.
remarkable age of 98.
“ Everyone called him Uncle Dick— he was a wonderful character and deeply respected by all who knew him,” Reg said.
“ Most people in the community encountered him at the cinema or as passengers in his taxi. He was truly passionate about Mt Druitt, so much so that he became a founding member of the Mt Druitt Historical Society.” Join the Festivities! Don’ t miss this special occasion on Sunday, 17 April— come along and help celebrate the hall’ s extraordinary 100- year journey. It promises to be a day to remember!
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The hall is always a hive of activity within the Mt Druitt community, hosting a huge variety of functions for residents of all ages. 10 ISSUE 49 // APRIL 2025 theindependentmagazine. com. au BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT