More than 100 people gathered at Dardanup's historic Thomas Little Memorial Hall at the weekend to celebrate its official reopening.
The 165-year-old church, the first Roman Catholic Church to be built in WA, was constructed in 1854 and used as a school in the 1870s and again from 1938.
In May 2019, the state government announced it would dedicate $500,000 to fixing structural issues and prolonging its useful life.
The upgrades have improved the hall's ability to host events, functions and performances, providing the shire with a much-improved community facility.
The official reopening was attended by members of the Thomas Little Memorial Hall Restoration Association, Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray and South West Development Commission chief executive officer Mellisa Teede - as well as a very special guest in 97-year-old former student Vivienne.
Restoration Association committee chair Danny Harris said the opening was a proud day for everyone, particularly the committee's members.
"To receive a grant of $500,000 is just outstanding," he said.
"The day that Mick came to make the announcement, it was the most genuine announcement you could imagine.
"It was clear that the state government wished for this building to be retained in its current form."
Bishop of Bunbury reverend Gerard Holohan was then invited to bless the historic building and said he couldn't help but ponder the role the space had played in the community and the community members that had been part of its history.
"As significant as this day is, I couldn't help but think about the role this beautiful space has played within the community and all of the community members that are part of the history of this place, too," he said.
Mr Murray confirmed the push for restoration was first put to him during the 2008 election and commended the committee for its tireless efforts to preserve the building.
"We now have a very special place that we can continue to enjoy for the next 100 years."
