Runcorn Progress Association Hall (former)

In 1924 the Runcorn Progress Association campaigned for a local public telephone and improvements at the Runcorn Railway Station. Euchre (card game) and dance nights were held to raise funds for community improvements. In February 1925 the Secretary of the Association reported that he had spoken to the owner, and one acre of land in the vicinity of the railway station could be had for a “very reasonable sum”. In December 1925, trustees George Whincop, Robert Fitzell and Chris Wharburton gained title to one acre of land held by the [illegible] Co-operative Fertilizer Ltd.

The Runcorn Progress Association Hall was officially opened on Saturday 23 January 1926. Mayor of the newly created Greater Brisbane, William Jolly opened the hall and commended the actions of local residents, stating that if the Greater Brisbane Scheme was to succeed “people would need to make more of an effort to help themselves” as the residents of Runcorn had done. The hall, with floorspace measuring 49ft by 30ft “was built by the [35] members of the association in their spare time.” It cost £300 for materials and contained a piano owned by the association. The association President, Mr A.F. Tuke referred “eulogistically” to the assistance given by the ladies during construction and remarked that the association hoped to obtain another 9 acres for a sports reserve and recreation ground. Alderman Jolly confirmed that he had recommended to the Parks Committee that land nearby be taken up, and by April 1927 over 9½ acres were resumed. In January 1928 the Association decided to purchase material for erecting a stage in the hall and for fencing the recreation grounds.

Throughout the 'twenties and 'thirties the association remained active, campaigning for better road and rail facilities, expressing particular concern for school children being crowded into the smoking compartments of trains. The hall continued to host euchre / card and dance nights raising money for the Queensland Ambulance and Transport Brigade and the Returned Soldiers League. The district remained sparsely settled – a petition to Council in 1935 for electric light and power was signed by 70 residents of Runcorn requesting 280 house lights, 33 power points and power for four motors. Other progress included the admission of women as Progress Association members which was unanimously decided in 1930.

The hall continued to be the hub of community entertainment and social events. As closer settlement and development of the suburb continued during the 1960s and 1970s the hall continued to host 'get-togethers' and trophy nights for the district's sports clubs as well as playing host to cultural pursuits such as the Sunnybank and Districts Brass Band. A toilet block was added in 1978.

The hall was the centre of community activities and social events for over 50 years but was dilapidated and faced demolition in 1979. The Lions Club of Runcorn undertook a project to renovate the hall, again with local community assistance, and obtained title in 1988. Further renovation was undertaken in 1997.

The former Runcorn Progress Hall, renamed Pinelands Lions Hall, continues to fulfil an important role as a venue for community events.

1. Brisbites http://www.ourbrisbane.com/suburbs/runcorn/history

2. Brisbane Courier 'Runcorn Progress Association'

3. http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/home

4. Queensland Certificates of Title

5. Stories of the Southside, 1991