Town Hall, 1882 (left corner), J.J. Barrow; Institute (central section) ground floor 1868 W.T. Gore, first floor 1887; New Institute (right section) 1906, Thomas Hall; 10-30 Commercial Road, Mount Gambier.

The Institute was the first building to be constructed on this site. It was built in dolomite and sandstone by Avey and Hale. It accommodated a library and hall. A second storey was added in 1887. The hall was a venue for film screenings from 1911-1926. Further extensions were added in the 1960s, but the Institute itself closed in 1967. The New Institute was built by the Institute Trustees to provide entertainment space. It served as a picture theatre from 1926 until 1966, and theatre productions continued until 1981. John Riddoch, who made generous donations towards the original Institute, is commemorated in the name of the gallery which now occupies the theatre.

The Town Hall was constructed in dolomite and sandstone by contractor William Weber. It occupies the prominent corner position of the site, and was occupied by the Council until it moved to the new Civic Centre in 1967.

Reference: pamphlet series Mount Gambier Heritage Walks, Mount Gambier Heritage Society, reprinted 1990.