Tongala’s true stories comically retold

By Jemma Jones

May 27, 2025

Damian Callinan is bringing his comedy show Hall Stories to Tongala. Photo: Damian Callinan Photo by Contributed

Comedian Damian Callinan is no stranger to country town halls — just grab him a scone with some jam and cream and he’s right as rain.

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The three-time Melbourne Comedy Festival Most Outstanding Show award nominee will be putting his hall knowledge to the test when he comes to Tongala Town Hall on Friday, May 30 for a special, uniquely tailored comedy show about Tongala, aptly named Hall Stories.

Starting at 6.30pm, Mr Callinan will weave audience-submitted Tongala stories into his performance, pulling back a curtain on his own tour stories and exploring the unique quirks, traditions and characters of rural Australian town halls.

Tongala Development Committee president Jason Kelley emphasised the event's importance in bringing the community together to celebrate the unique charm of small regional towns.

“It’s a good opportunity for small local towns to have events like this,” Mr Kelley said.

“It shows we don’t have to go to the big city for a comedy show... it will definitely be a great night and a celebration of our community.”

Don't miss this 90-minute laugh fest at the Tongala Shire Hall on Mangan St, starting at 6.30pm.

At just $10 a ticket, it's a bargain night out.

Tickets can be bought at the Tongala Post Office, or by purchasing online at https://tinyurl.com/3449p44u