Kalgoorlie Town Hall

Description

Kalgoorlie Town Hall Tour – Discover the Heart of a Gold Rush City

The Kalgoorlie Town Hall, built in 1908 during the height of the gold boom, stands as a proud monument to the city’s golden heritage. This impressive heritage-listed landmark, with its grand façade and richly decorated interiors, is a testament to the extraordinary wealth and civic pride of a community thriving on gold rush success.

Constructed in the Federation Free Classical style at a cost of almost £20,000 — an immense sum for the time — the hall was considered state-of-the-art. Inside, you’ll find ornate pressed metal ceilings, glittering chandeliers, a sweeping staircase, and a fly tower with original theatre rigging still intact. The backstage area houses 11 dressing rooms, once bustling with performers preparing to take the stage. The Town Hall officially opened on 8 November 1908 and has been a centre of civic and cultural life ever since.

As part of the tour, you’ll explore the Sporting Hall of Fame in the upstairs foyer, where photographs, memorabilia, and artefacts celebrate the city’s sporting champions and historic events. You’ll also step inside the Council Chambers and Mayor’s Parlour, both rich with original paintings, photographs, and ceremonial objects, and still used today for council meetings. A highlight for many is meeting the city’s most famous figure — Paddy Hannan, the Irish prospector credited with discovering the first gold in Kalgoorlie in 1893. The original 1929 statue of Paddy now resides in the Town Hall foyer, beautifully refurbished for preservation, while a durable replica awaits outside for a photo opportunity — complete with Paddy’s iconic water bag for a refreshing drink.

Your knowledgeable guide will share stories of the city’s glamorous theatre days, political milestones, and larger-than-life characters, bringing the gold rush era vividly to life.

Tour Details: •When: Mondays & Wednesdays at 10:30am •Duration: 1 hour •Cost: Adults $10 | Concession $8 | Children (16 & under) $4 •Bookings: Recommended

Opening Hours: •Monday–Friday: 10am–4pm •Saturday: 9am–1pm •Closed Public Holidays

Location: Hannan Street, Kalgoorlie