In almost every town there is a landmark that celebrates its history, for Yarrawonga it’s the grand site of the almost century year old Town Hall, and now you can take a step back in time as the clock begins to chime once more.
Moira Shire Council has restored the clock functions to complement the upcoming improvement works taking place in the Town Hall precinct, beginning with the new library construction.
Installed several years after the establishment of the Town Hall, the Returned Services Association raised the final funds for the clock to be completed in 1937. Therefore, it is known as the Memorial Clock and is dedicated to those who served from the district and paid the ultimate sacrifice during the Great War.
Through the years, many people have worked on the clock to keep it running and Moira Shire Council’s acting Chief Executive Officer Joshua Lewis said it was a significant part of Yarrawonga’s history.
“The clock and the bell chimes have gone through a number of restorations over time, it means a lot to Council and the community to have them operating again and we hope they stay operational for many years’ to come,” Mr Lewis said.
“It’s a central part of our regions’ landscape and not many places in Victoria or across Australia can say they have a century year old clock tower still chiming.”
The bell chimes are what makes the Yarrawonga Clock Tower a historically significant icon, as they play the same tune as the famous Westminster Abbey chimes you would hear at Big Ben in London.
Having stood the test of time, there are many in the community who hold fond memories of the chimes particularly in an era not ruled by technology. The chimes would indicate when schools in session, when children can go out to play, when workers can break for smoko and when it was time to return home.
The Panel of Administrators Chair, John Tanner AM said restoring the clock was a unique community gift.
“The clock is the crowning touch for our region, and having it keeping time and chiming again lends Yarrawonga an air of dignity and history to be proud of,” Mr Tanner said.
