Built in 1891 with community funds on land bought from the Victorian Education Department the Dean Hall still stands proudly in the beautiful countryside at Dean, half way between Ballarat and Daylesford.

"The Dean Mechanics' and free library had for its object the diffusion of literacy, scientific and other useful knowledge amongst its Members". A library, lectures and classes were organised. The original building was extended in 1931 to include a large supper room and kitchen. Over the years the Hall has been used for many different activities. Some such as the Dean Union Sunday School, Dean CWA Branch and Dean Bias Bowls Club ran in the Hall for at least 205 years in total!

A new set of aims has been undertaken by the current Dean Hall Committee of Management, in line with community needs. Events such as the "Ring of Roses" Easter Show, Dean Spring Daffodil show and Open Garden, Art Classes and the Dean Farmers' Auction draw crowds back to the historic venue.

Heritage features of the grand old building have been restored in a major refurbishment project being supported by Dean and district residents, the Hepburn Shire Council and Government funds. A quarterly publication, "The Dean and District News", produced by the Hall Committee keeps people up to date with issues, events and local news. An archival rescue is being undertaken by the Hall Committee to collect historical stories, photos and artifacts of the Dean area for future generations who use the Dean Hall.

The Dean Hall Committee is grateful for funding from the:

• Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund;
• Australian Government's Community Water Grants and the
• Department of Transport and Regional Services.

See Community Support Fund - www.dvc.vic.gov.au/