Damian Callinan celebrates the Leitchville Hall's history
Published on 19 October 2026
The history of the Leitchville Memorial Hall came to life last week thanks to renowned Australian comedian, Damian Callinan.
More than 50 people attended the latest stop of the performer’s Hall Stories tour on Wednesday, 14 October, which focuses on the unique stories behind community halls and gathering spaces across Australia.
“It was fantastic to welcome Damian back to the Gannawarra. Last year’s visits to Lake Charm and Murrabit as part of the Hall Stories tour were so well received, and really celebrated the important role town halls play in bringing people together,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.
“Damian’s show at Leitchville was no exception, with those in attendance enjoying a night of laughter whilst learning more about the town’s hall, which has hosted thousands of gatherings since its opening more than 100 years ago.”
ABOVE: Damian Callinan (right) interviewed Dawn Billman during his Hall Stories performance held at the Leitchville Memorial Hall on Wednesday, 14 October.
As part of the show’s preparations, Damian spent time with the Leitchville Hall Committee members and other residents to learn more about the town, with this information key to the performance. Damian also spent time immersing himself in the local history and unique local attractions, visiting the Cohuna and District Historical Society, Transformations Gallery and Gifts and Leitchville Recreation Reserve.
Damian brought local stories to life by involving local identities in recollections of movie nights, dances, debutante balls and many other memorable occasions hosted at the hall over the years. The evening also featured an entertaining ‘Leitchville Hall Quiz’, which put two local identities to the test on their knowledge of local folklore and the colourful stories connected to the venue.
Adding to the event, the Leitchville Seniors provided an exceptional supper, giving attendees the opportunity to connect, reminisce and share in the community’s stories.
“Damian’s hilarious stories and renowned quick wit perfectly captured why the Leitchville Memorial Hall is important to its community and residents,” Mr Rollinson said.
“Council thanks Damian for bringing his Hall Stories tour back to the Gannawarra and looks forward to welcoming him to the area in the future.”
Damian Callinan’s Hall Stories performance occurred as part of Gannawarra Shire Council's Victorian Seniors Festival celebrations, which finish on 30 October. For more information about the Victorian Seniors Festival, collect a copy of the 2026 Gannawarra Seniors Festival program from Council's Customer Service Centres, Gannawarra Library Service branches, or visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival
TOP: Damian Callinan (right) joined audience members in recreating a Leitchville Netball Club team photo during his Hall Stories performance held at the Leitchville Memorial Hall on Wednesday, 14 October.