The Morningside School of Arts Hall, a nearly 100-year-old community landmark in the centre of Morningside, was once so rundown that its front doors had to be held up with masking tape. Locals say it’s a miracle the heritage-listed hall is still standing, let alone hosting Sunday markets, dance nights and art exhibitions.
A Century Of Memories, And Signs Of Wear
Since opening in 1926, the Morningside School of Arts Hall has hosted everything from weddings to community concerts. Now, it needs an estimated $250,000 in repairs to fix crumbling brickwork, poor drainage, faulty wiring and a collapsing shed.
Although the Morningside School of Arts Hall has a Brisbane City Council heritage overlay, it isn’t owned by council or the state, leaving locals responsible for its upkeep. In late 2024, artist Debra Hood became committee president and found the hall in a dangerous state, with faulty lighting and other hazards. One visit by MP Di Farmer, where a light began smoking, pushed Hood to begin restoration efforts.
Community Rallies To Save Local Icon
Since stepping in, Debra Hood has led a grassroots effort to revive the Morningside School of Arts Hall. Volunteers have helped with a major clean-up, a new website, and a membership drive. Small grants supported early repairs, including new front doors and fresh garden beds.
Hood continues to seek funding from all levels of government, but progress has been slow. With annual insurance costs around $13,000, fundraising through trivia nights, music events and merchandise sales is essential to keep the hall running.
Forgotten Treasures Under The Stage
While cleaning under the stage, volunteers uncovered nearly a century of forgotten history. Items included documents, photos and regalia from the Ancient Order of Druids, who met there from 1926 to 1978.
Their original charter, now digitised, is displayed inside the hall. Other finds included architectural plans, old love letters, and records revealing the 1960s ban of the Morningside Football Club after rowdy Friday night dances.
Looking Ahead To 2026 And Beyond
As the Morningside School of Arts Hall approaches its 100th birthday on February 19, 2026, preservation efforts are building momentum. Debra Hood is creating a coffee table book, 100 Years, 100 Stories, featuring photos and memories shared by the community.
An open day is planned for Saturday, July 19 as part of Brisbane Open House. Weekly events like the Love Me Again Market continue to bring locals together in the historic space.
Published 8-June-2025