The events of the Black Saturday bushfires that consumed Victoria, Australia in February 2009 have listed the disaster as one of the most extreme bushfires ever recorded, with 173 people losing their lives and 414 receiving injuries. One of the first public buildings to receive damage as a result of the fires was Narbethong Community Hall which has since been replaced by a beautiful timber and steel volume designed by BVN and Arup.

Tomorrow this new facility will be opened to the public after it was recognised as a project of high priority in the area being the only public venue available to Narbethong. The design recognises the timber industry heritage of the local community with a timber lined interior, however the exterior is encased in steel mesh to protect it from any future fires. Funding for the scheme was sourced from the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund, McDonalds Australia Ltd and insurance payouts.