A Brief History of the Empire Bay Progress Association and the Building of the Progress Hall

Source: The Gosford Times & Wyong District Advocate.

With the growing Empire Bay community in the 1920’s, there was an increasing need for the residents to improve the village life, and to have a united representation to Erina Council to improve the wharfs, roads, drainage and recreational facilities in the village.

In late November 1923, a group of residents formed the Empire Bay Progress Association. They met in the local Parish Hall. Mr J. Bell was elected as President.

Over the subsequent months, the EBPA quickly established a constitution, and a priority list of issues to be addressed for the benefit of the local residents. During the 1923 to 1926 period the meetings were held “on Saturday before full moon” in the local Parish Hall. 

During December 1926, My Myler handed the EBPA a “Deed of Gift” for 2 blocks of land (1-3 Gordon Rd) on which the Progress Hall is to be built. The locals quickly formed “Building Fund” activities.

By Feb, 1929, plans were submitted to Erina Council for the erection of a Progress Hall on the Gordon Rd property.

The exact date at which the Hall was built and opened is unknown, but the Gosford Times, 1933, reports the Progress Hall being used for local meetings and events.

 The Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate 29th November 1923

The Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate 13th December 1923