Description

Originally named Loco Hall, the building was first built for the Australian Federation of Locomotive Enginemen (the railway union) in 1914, where it occupied the former front garden of the now-demolished Benevolent Asylum. The building's parapet still has the original locomotive sculpture, a class A2 engine. The building was inaugurated by Billy Hughes Australia’s 7th Prime Minister. Now named The Arcadian, the building has an Art Deco Grand Ballroom suited for up to 350 guests. During its lifetime the building has been used as a movie theatre (Amalgamated Pictures & Loco Cinestar), and later was converted to a reception venue (Marconi Ballroom).

The building, purchased by The Association in 1985, now operates as a community hub for cultural and artistic activities. There are two additional function rooms, Kolokotronis on the first and Kallisto Room on the second level. Many of the original features remain in tact. The beautifully proportioned rooms with their pressed metal ceilings have been respectfully restored by The Association. The ballroom’s roof cavity is accessible for viewing, as is the basement under the commercial kitchen which has a dungeon feel.

What's On

The building is now home to the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne and Victoria Ó Kolokotronis’. The Association's membership is mainly comprised of Greek-Australians originating from the region of Arcadia, Greece. They will run through the building's past, as well as The Association's history and activities. The public is invited to guess the origins of the building's iconic ballroom chandeliers.