Tom Atkins Hall

ICONIC TUGUN LANDMARK GETS A FACELIFT

How you can help Tom Atkin Hall shine bright once again!

Whether you’ve lived a little or a long time down the southern end of town, you know Tom Atkin Hall. And for those from other ‘burbs around the Coast, you would have driven past it – perhaps unknowingly – every time you’ve ventured down the Gold Coast Highway at Tugun. A deceptively unassuming building, there is so much more than meets the eye here. 55 years young, the hall has done so much good for the community, undeniably earning its stripes… and a very well-deserved facelift. As passionate advocates of this iconic, community-owned groundbreaker, we’re delighted to tell you why it’s so special and unpack how you can help secure its future.

The crux of the matter is, for this communityowned and funded local treasure to keep up with (the Kardashians….no not really) demand, it needs some TLC. A lot actually – $360k worth. We’re talking functional upgrades such as disabled access and updated facilities, as well as a reinvigorated exterior. Its fresh new look will be reminiscent of a vibrant 50’s art deco cinema which seriously, is there anything cooler?

For this epic upgrade to continue, however, the volunteer-based Tugun Progress Association (TPA) – the Trustee for the hall taking care of general operations and maintenance – is sending out an SOS.

With so much construction yet to take place, they’re in need of precious donations big or small from anyone who can spare a dollar to support. As it’s community-owned, all funding must come from selfless donations, whether they be cash, labour or materials. Without the above, this Tugun trailblazer won’t have a shot at a second life – and we’re reaching for the Kleenex at the prospect.

So just what exactly goes down in this muchloved old-timer that makes it worthy of all the fuss? For starters, it’s long been a place for the locals to discuss important developments and pressing matters that directly affect the community. Regularly facilitating conversations between the public, politicians and the Council, big plans have been hatched, halted and heeded within those sandy brick walls.

It has also led a double life as a bit of a playboy (sans the bunnies and the grotto… and Hef), acting as a place of fun, creativity, expression and ‘togetherness’.

Always popular for private celebrations, workshops, performances, lunches and fundraisers, there is an ever-growing list of groups utilising the space on a regular basis.

The hall is the only community-owned, not-for-profit hall on the Coast, and a beacon for the rich history of its beloved ‘hood. Rejuvenating the space will not only provide better facilities for the many community groups who use it, but preserve one of the few original structures left standing in our beautiful city.

So friends, if you can spare some moolah, contribute a trade or help in any way, this is a great way to give back and help a golden oldie regain its youth, and continue its do-gooder deeds.

Each of the businesses and individuals who contribute toward the project, in-kind or in donations, will be thanked with generous public recognition, both on the job site hoarding and digitally. You will be mentioned on their dedicated social media platforms, which can be shared directly onto your own social media pages. Where: 433 Golden Four Drive, Tugun.

Words by Bianca Trathen

DONATE HERE

Anyone who can spare a dollar or more!