Community farewells Mandurah hall prior to demolition

The hall, that has been part of the Mandurah community since 1973, was utilised by a number of community groups and activities over the years including church groups, boy scouts, bingo and swap-meets.

The hall was named after Nellie Regan who was a well-known advocate for Mandurah’s senior citizens.

She raised money to renovate what was a Police Boys hall, into the long-standing building when she was president of the Australian Pensioners’ League Mandurah Branch.

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In 1979, Mrs Regan was recognised by the Queen with an Order of the British Empire for her endeavours in helping the community and was also given the first “Grandmother of Western Australia” award by the state.  

Mrs Regan’s daughter Decima Marshall (81) said she was sad the building was being demolished. 

“It’s been part of our life for quite some time,” she said.

“There’s a lot of history here. She planted most of these trees as well as raising money to build the hall.”

Son-in-law Brian Marshall said Mrs Regan was a “tireless worker” for the community.

“She made toffee apples and scones and would sell them on Smart Street Mall, to raise money to build this hall,” he said. 

“The pensioners had nowhere to go before that.”

A shrine with old pictures and memories of the building was showcased on the day.

City of Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams said Mrs Regan’s legacy would live on, and the activities room at the Mandurah Seniors and Community Centre would be named in her honour.

He said the hall had “reached the end of its life”. Mr Williams said the city had not yet decided what the space would be used for.