How a century-old town hall became the heart of a small community

The moonshine stomp, the mountain goat and the rocking chair — these are just some of the dance moves echoing through Tasmania's Rowella Community Hall on any given Sunday.The former church, nestled alongside the River Tamar, north of Launceston, is now one of the state's busiest community halls, hosting everything from social nights to folk festivals to weekly crafting.Nine years ago, though, the 99-year-old hall was facing closure due to rising costs and dwindling use.Locals brought forward ideas of classes, events and activities to revitalise it.Today, a packed schedule has made it the heart of a growing rural community.Rosemary Jensen and her husband Gary moved to Rowella from Launceston 14 years ago.They are among many opting for country air, greener pastures and more space In recent years, there has been an influx of young families to Rowella from the mainland doing the same."We started off with social nights on the first Friday of every month and we started to exchange phone numbers and get to know our neighbours," Mrs Jensen said.Mrs Jensen said she had taken an active role at the hall. She goes clogging weekly, alongside her husband, and steps in as chief decorator for weddings, parties and festivals held at the space."It has got a beautiful vibe