Hundreds celebrate grand opening of Marino Community Hall

A brand new community facility has been unveiled by the City of Marion at Marino made possible through a joint funding commitment between all three tiers of government.

The $6.8 million project has been made possible thanks to a $3.3 million contribution from the Marion Council, $3 million from the Australian Government’s Investing in Our Communities program, and an additional $500,000 from the South Australian Government.

Mayor Kris Hanna said, “I look forward to seeing residents of all ages come together here for social activities, celebrations, and community events for many years to come.”

Hundreds attended the grand opening of the Marino Community Hall on Saturday which featured art exhibitions, market stalls, food, coffee, face painting and a variety of community performances and activities.

For generations, the Marino Community Hall has been a welcoming space where people from Marino and nearby suburbs come and take part in a wide range of activities including art, yoga, dance, and children’s activities.

Federal Member for Boothby Louise Miller-Frost has supported the hall’s redevelopment since its early planning stages.

“Three years ago, I was so pleased to be able to commit funding to upgrading the much loved but very tired old Marino Hall. The new expanded hall will I am sure be a vital hub for the local community for coffee, leisure activities, events and exhibitions.” Ms Miller-Frost said.

Designed to meet the evolving needs of a diverse and growing population, the new facility will foster greater community participation, inclusion, and connection for people of all ages and backgrounds. The Marino Community Hall will be managed by the Marino Community Hall Committee.

The purpose-built centre includes:
•    Various community activity spaces
•    Independently run Café space
•    Enhanced accessibility features 
•    Multiple spaces available for community hire
•    Onsite car parking

The previous facility was built in the 1940s and was in desperate need of an upgrade.

When Council acquired the adjacent land, it set the wheels in motion for plans for a new community hall, which was well received by the community.

It prompted the Council to explore redevelopment of the building back in 2019 before endorsing a concept design in 2020.

The project got the green light when funding was secured from both the State Government in 2022 and Federal Government in 2023.

“For over 70 years Marino Community Hall has been both the geographical and social heart of Marino and surrounding suburbs," Member for Black, Alex Dighton said.

This fantastic redevelopment will enhance the role of the Hall in building a greater sense of belonging amongst the local community."

Artist Karl Meyer developed the sculptures that stand at the front of the building with boulders from the Linwood Quarry ‘Pebbles to Pillars’ which he said would be a vibrant landmark and a symbol of coming together, promoting art, activity, and human connection.

The artwork's bold colours and scale ensure visibility and engagement, making it a beacon of community spirit and a testament to the active culture of Marino.

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