Special lighting enhances architectural beauty of Rockdale Town Hall

Leader photographer Chris Lane was so taken by the sight while driving by last week, he stopped and shot some photos to share.

A Bayside Council spokesman said the lights were installed a year ago and the town hall was first lit up in December 2020.

"The new, permanent lighting system also means council can easily incorporate new seasonal lighting displays to support future holidays, festivals and commemorative events," he said.

At an extraordinary meeting in November, the council voted not to hold the usual New Year's Eve Fireworks or Carols on the Beach at Brighton-Le-Sands as part of its COVID-safe program of summer events.

The budgeted $200,000 will be used on a fairy lights display at the plaza at Trafalgar Street and Bay Street, Brighton-Le-Sands, and new lighting at Botany Town Hall.

Rockdale Town Hall was built in 1940, replacing the original hall which stood on the site as part of road widening of Princes Highway.

Designed by a local architect William Kenwood, the exterior of the building has art deco features, with more elaborate use of this style inside.

Many important public occasions have been held at the town hall, including a celebration of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953, with thousands gathering in and around.

The town hall has also been the scene for major political events.

In 1966, Prime Minister Harold Holt faced a large anti-Vietnam War protest when he opened the Liberal Party election campaign at Rockdale Town Hall.

Hundreds of protesters swarmed around his car, banging on the bonnet, while others infiltrated the building, creating pandemonium during the speeches.

When Mr Holt left, police had to drag demonstrators from the path of his car.

The building is on the Australian Institute of Architects' 20th Century Register Of Significant Buildings.