Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford, today met the Mayor of Ararat Rural City Council, Paul Hooper, to reaffirm the Andrews Labor Government’s commitment to contribute $3.7 million towards the redevelopment of the Ararat Arts Centre Precinct.
Touring the Ararat Town Hall, Minister Pulford said work had commenced to establish the new $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund that would deliver the $3.7 million redevelopment.
The major upgrade will transform the existing precinct located in the Ararat Town Hall – which houses the Ararat Regional Art Gallery and the Ararat Performing Arts Centre – into a modern focal point for the region’s art activities and exhibitions.
The project will refurbish and expand the Victorian-era built Ararat Town Hall, including the award-winning 1978 extension overseen by renowned architect Graeme Gunn.
The redevelopment will deliver greater and more flexible exhibition, performance and storage spaces, a facility capable of exhibiting the Gallery’s permanent collection which is currently mostly in storage, and an enhanced front entrance to improve access for people of all abilities.
The project will also include improvements to the appearance of the facade, foyer and entry, enhancement ofpublic amenities such as toilets, box office, bar, general congregation spaces and car parking, and new café services.
The project is being funded in partnership with Ararat Rural City Council through the Labor Government’s new $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford
“The Andrews Labor Government is getting this project up and running as soon as possible, because regional jobs matter.”
“When complete, the Gallery can permanently display its entire collection of textile and fibre art, which is one of the largest and most extensive in Australia.”
“Projects like these bring jobs, growth and investment to our regional cities, attracting people from around the country to visit.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020