The structure that now houses the Wallumbilla Men’s Shed has a rich legacy rooted in the Chadford community.
Its story began in 1952, when it was constructed as the Chadford Hall by John Howard and Freddie Limpus.
The build was a gruelling labour of love; John Howard famously recalled the coldest winter he ever endured was spent out at the Chadford Reserve while raising the hall.
Much of the timber used in construction was donated by Arthur Allen and transported to Wallumbilla by Authur Klien and Byron Mansfield.
The timber was milled by Dick Thompsett at the Wallumbilla Sawmill, anchoring building’s foundation to the region.
For years, the hall stood near the Chadford School and the local tennis courts, serving as the heartbeat of the district.
It was the site of local dances, polling booths, the Wallumbilla Girl Guides club house and the SES Wallumbilla branch.
One of the most enduring legends of the hall involves a particularly lopsided election.
Rumour has it that out of 46 local votes cast, 45 went to the Country Party, while a single, solitary vote was cast for Labor.
To this day, the identity of that lone Labor voter remains a mystery; a topic of conversation that has lasted decades.
Ownership of the hall eventually transitioned to the Bendemere Shire Council, leading to its relocation to the Wallumbilla Showgrounds.
The move was a true community effort.
Tibby Chant managed the transport of the building and Ian “Digger” Houston, a local member of the men’s shed, took on the heavy task of digging out the new stumps.
In 2016, the building began its newest chapter.
The old Chadford Hall was officially repurposed, becoming the home of the Wallumbilla Men’s Shed, ensuring the structure continues to serve as a place for camaraderie, storytelling, and community spirit.
