Gippsland › Latest news › East Gippsland Local News
Bairnsdale arts precinct has feasibility plan completed by East Gippsland Shire Council
Council concludes a feasibility plan for an arts precinct in Bairnsdale's CBD, with the goal of establishing a vibrant cultural hub. Collaboration and funding efforts underscore the commitment to community engagement and cultural enhancement.
An arts and culture precinct in Bairnsdale's CBD is the focus of a feasibility plan recently completed by East Gippsland Shire Council. The precinct would include a range of creative spaces to support different creative pursuits, providing an invigorating hub for Bairnsdale and surrounding areas.
The Bairnsdale Arts Precinct plan involves collaboration among government, Traditional Owners, and the private sector, featuring various cultural amenities
Arts precinct feasibility study
While an exciting development, council does recognise that the feasibility study is just the beginning. The feasibility study serves as a preliminary step, evaluating the viability of proposed plans and laying the groundwork for further community involvement, and a design stage when funding is available. Extensive consultation will be conducted throughout the progression of the project.
Spearheaded by Williams Ross Architects, the feasibility study explored the financial viability, cultural significance, environmental impact, and economic sustainability. The Bairnsdale Arts Precinct Feasibility Plan is a collaborative effort, bringing together government bodies, Traditional Owners, and the private sector.
A few of the precinct's envisioned features are a relocated Traditional Owner exhibition space, an expanded art gallery, a civic square housing a performing arts theatre and inviting riverfront spaces for recreation and exhibitions.
Stakeholder consultation group
To ensure diverse stakeholder input, council established a Project Reference Group (PRG) comprising representatives, including:
- EGMI
- Destination Gippsland
- East Gippsland Art Gallery
- Office of the Victorian Government Architects
- GLaWAC
- Community members
The involvement of Creative Arts Victoria, local performing dance groups, art studios, and musicians further enriched the consultation process.
Arts precinct development
Acting Chief Executive Officer Fiona Weigall said the Bairnsdale Arts Precinct represents a significant stride towards enhancing cultural activities, attracting visitors, and enriching the East Gippsland community's vibrancy and cultural richness. "Aligned with the Bairnsdale 2050 plans, this project seeks to create an exciting community space catering to both local and international visitors. It strategically aligns with the Culture and Creativity Strategy 2023 - 2033 and the Bairnsdale Growth Strategy, showcasing the council's commitment to a thriving arts community," Ms Weigall said.
Council is now actively seeking funding through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program to propel the project into the design phase. This grant, facilitated by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts, underscores the department's dedication to serving regional communities and investing in their future.
A cornerstone of this development phase, subject to funding, will be continuing to engage with the community addressing concerns of individuals who have felt disengaged in previous stages.
Pictures from East Gippsland Art Gallery website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
ANZAC Day events across South Gippsland and other shire council updates
Gippsland students urged to enter National Water Week poster contest by 6 September 2024
Have your say and help develop Trafalgar Structure Plan through online survey by 20 May 2024
Stay vigilant and report scams to IDCare on 1800595160 as over 500,000 Aussies lose $3B in 2022
Tim Bull visits Gallipoli and honours fallen locals such as Basil Hooper, Vern Brookes, Thomas Bell, and Thomas Haylock
Community feedback needed for East Gippsland Shire Council Draft 2024/25 Budget by 29 May 2024
Fresh food tax criticised by industry as lack of clarity on payment and collection will harm families and farmers
Russell Broadbent seeks answers to 20% increase in cardiac arrests by advocating investigation to include vaccine mandates
East Gippsland Shire Council highlights telecommunications infrastructure when advocating over thirty goals for community resilience and development