The Riddells Creek Mechanics Institute is turning 150, with the community invited to step inside the doors for a fun day out.
On the day, there will be plenty of memories featured with photos, stories and memories of the past 150 years, an interactive history timeline of the RCMI and an honour board to recognise the many people who helped shape its history.
The celebration will open with an official opening by Macedon Ranges mayor Dom Bonanno, a speech by RCMI committee of management secretary Val Sparshott, followed by Devonshire tea, live music and line dancing.
Ms Sparshott said it will be an important day for the Riddells Creek community.
“The mechanics institute has been the focus of Riddells Creek since 1875,” she said.
“People gathered there every week, during the wars. They held balls and fundraising for soldiers and it was always full of people.
“It was the centre of the town in the very early days.”
Ms Sparshott said it will be a great opportunity for the community to step inside the Mechanics Hall and experience its rich history.
“We’re just hoping for a lot of people to come and look at the building,” she said.
“It’s got an honour roll in there, which is important to our history, not just the Mechanics Hall’s, but Australian history too, so I think it would be nice for people to come along (and come see it).”
RCMI’s 150th celebration will be held on Saturday 18 October, from 9am to 3pm, at the Mechanics Hall.
