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WELD THEATRE HISTORY

 

The Weld Hall was built during the course of 1874-1881 and progressively developed and adapted thereafter. Named after Governor Frederick Weld, it was built as a Mechanic’s Institute and provided support and education prior to institutions such as public libraries being formalised.  Weld Hall later serve as a town hall, the Mechanic’s Institute which began in 1861, a meeting place for the Returned Services League, and now, the home of the Busselton Repertory Club.

Mechanic's Institutes began in Scotland in 1821 as an education facility for working men, as employers recognised the value of better educated employees, and as an alternative to pubs.

 

Weld Hall was built as a single storey brick building with a galvanized iron roof in the Victorian Italianate style, with a stage and auditorium behind a street facing verandah.  It has cultural heritage significance as the place associated with various community organizations, reflecting its important public education role.

 

It is one of the oldest remaining structures in Busselton and is an important reminder of the role of the Mechanics’ Institute in promoting education and cultural development in the community prior to formal library and education facilities being created.  It has had many additions and alterations over time to the present with excellent stage, auditorium, foyer and facilities.

 

The Weld retains a social role as a theatre and contributes to the community’s sense of place. It has a striking visual form and plays an important role in the Queen Street streetscape at the corner of Queen and Adelaide streets.

Governor Sir Frederick Aloysius Weld, for whom the building was named and of aristocratic Irish background, was appointed Governor of WA in 1869, having been Premier of New Zealand.  He urged the construction of extensive telegraph lines throughout WA as he recognised its isolation.  We instituted a steamship service and was eventually appointed governor of Tasmania.

Our Rep Club AGM is coming up

 

1.  NOTICE OF AGM

We will hold The Busselton Repertory Club Annual General Meeting at the Esplanade Hotel on Tuesday 12 August 2025 at 7.00pm.
 

All members and interested prospective members are welcome to attend.  Please come along and support your Club.  Come along and get the business things done, then relax and celebrate with friends.
All current financial members are eligible to vote at the AGM.   

 

2.  BECOME A MEMBER

You can renew membership at the meeting, using cash or credit card if you wish.  Renew your membership for $10 at the door.
To make it easy, simply go to https://www.trybooking.com/DBUZL and pay on line.

 

Or you can scan the QR code below and, using your credit card, instantly become a member.
Your membership is valid through to the end of 2026.  Wow!

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.  PANTOMIME 2026
Pantomime is on again this coming January.  Despite not having guaranteed access to our theatre in time, we will go ahead with our famous Annual Pantomime.  We have now started planning for the annual Pantomime to be held in early January 2026.  Watch out for notifications about auditions, and please offer assistance in any support areas.  The team will need you to make this a smashing success.

So, keep your eyes open for news in your inbox, or on our website at www.busseltonrepertory.com.au .

Thank you for your ongoing support of The Busselton Repertory Club, and we look forward to seeing you very soon in The Weld Theatre with its enhanced facilities.

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