Rivoli Hall, MacMahon and Dora Street intersection, Hurstville NSW, ca 1975

The MacMahon Street property at the corner of Dora Street was purchased by Illawarra Markets (Hurstville) in October 1932, at which time the premises were registered as the site of 'markets'. The property was later listed as 'The Rivoli', comprising a hall and four lock up shops. 'Department of the Valuer General, NSW', Valuation List, MacMahon Street, Hurstville Ward, 1932 & 1954 Local Studies Collection, Georges River Libraries.

The then Hurstville Municipal Council purchased the site which the building occupies in January 1977. The site had been formerly occupied by the Rivoli Hall for approximately 40 years and prior to that functioned as a market. Saturday night dances, housie and other entertainments were staged at the hall. The property was purchased from Laverton Nickel for 'about $100,000'. The Hurstville Town Clerk, Mr J. Barnard indicated the building would be demolished to accommodate extensions to the neighbouring Hurstville Civic Centre. 'St. George and Sutherland Shire Leader', 26 January 1977, p.19. Georges River Libraries.

At a special Council meeting in March 1977 it was recommended that no further funds be made available for the repair of the Rivoli building and that quotations should be sought for the demolition of the building. It was also recommended that a sign should be erected at the site informing the public that a new central library was to be constructed there. In addition, council officers were to continue in the preparation of preliminary plans and ways in which the project may be financed. 'Minutes, Volume 1977', 'Business', Special Meeting of Hurstville Municipal Council, 10 March 1977, pp.86-7. Local Studies Collection, Georges River Libraries.