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Wellington Entertainment CentreWelington’s new $5.9 million regional entertainment complex has been completed in time for a "sneak preview" function this weekend. By Wellington Shire Council - 19th September 2003 - Back to News The new Esso BHP Billiton Wellington Entertainment Centre will have gained all the necessary permits and certification to host its first function this Saturday, 20 September.
Wellington Shire Council has decided to grasp the opportunity and transfer the Mayoral Ball to its exciting new venue, as a "sneak preview" Gala Premiere Event. The Mayoral Ball is being sponsored by Telstra Country Wide Gippsland and was organised to be a key fund-raiser for the Entertainment Centre.
High profile comedian Rod Quantock has been booked to add even more excitement to the gala event, which retains its formal dress code, three course meal and live band.
Chief Executive Lyndon Webb said Council staff had made guests aware of the relocation and the response had been absolutely fantastic.
"As we expected," he said.
"Many of the people who had booked to be part of the Mayoral Ball are key supporters of the Entertainment Centre, and we credit them with helping this long-term community dream come to fruition.
"We’re delighted that we’re able to share this opportunity with them."
The Esso BHP Billiton Wellington Entertainment Centre is a regional entertainment complex designed to attract major performances and events to the Gippsland region.
Discussions are underway with major touring companies from right around Australia, hoping to attract quality events such as the Comedy Roadshow from Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Oz Opera and the Bell Shakespeare Company.
The complex features a 400-seat auditorium, café and dining area, meeting rooms, exhibition spaces and is a significant piece of architecture for our region.
Saturday’s Gala Premiere Event will also be utilised to sneak preview the Opening Festival Program.
Three weeks of festivities incorporating high profile acts and high-tech displays have been planned to mark the opening of the Esso BHP Billiton Wellington Entertainment Centre, the details of which will be unveiled Saturday night.
The Festival Launch, and is promised to be a highlight for the whole region.
Mr Webb said "We’re very excited about this opportunity, to be finished in time to involve the community in a Gala Premiere Event like this.
"I just can’t wait for the fun to begin!"
The "Gala Premier Event" is a full-house, starting at 7pm with champagne on arrival.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com

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