Horsham is set for a cultural revitalisation, thanks to the opening today of the redeveloped Town Hall and Art Gallery by Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford.
Ms Pulford said the redeveloped Horsham Town Hall and Regional Art Gallery will provide high-quality cultural facilities for the Horsham community, boost visitor numbers to the region and create more local jobs.
The facility is designed to be used for conferences, large events and community activities. The redevelopment has delivered:
- a new 500-seat performing arts auditorium
- rehearsal studio/ function room
- refurbishment works to the existing heritage listed Town Hall and Regional Art Gallery
- expansion of the art gallery exhibition space and collection storage
- a new foyer running the length of the building and connecting Wilson and Pynsent Streets.
The new 500-seat auditorium will showcase local and touring performing and visual arts – bringing the best to the region and showcasing the region’s talent.
As a significant civic building in the town centre, the redeveloped Town Hall and Art Gallery will stimulate community and economic activity on the surrounding streets during the day, in the evening and on weekends.
Economic modelling of the redevelopment indicated that investment during the construction phase for goods and services in Horsham was worth more than $13 million, and the flow on consumption was worth $5.5 million.
The new Town Hall and Performing Arts Centre will provide an additional 3.4 full time jobs, and further casual staff for specific events. The new café connected to the Performing Arts Centre will also employ approximately 5 new staff once opened.
The Andrews Labor Government recognises that creative industries and cultural events can enhance liveability, grow local economies and bring the community together.
Through the Government’s $971,000 Touring Victoria program, producers can access grants to help take visual arts, music, circus, theatre, comedy and dance performances to regional audiences.
Horsham Rural City Council are already experiencing a healthy level of bookings for touring shows, local community events and conferences.
The $19.8 million redevelopment was funded by the Victorian Government ($6.5 million), Australian Government ($5 million), Horsham Rural City Council ($7.3 million), and community fundraising ($1 million).
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“This state-of-the-art regional performing arts and art gallery complex will serve the communities of the Wimmera region for many years to come, attracting visitors and driving economic and cultural activity.”
“We are putting Horsham on track to be the Arts and Culture hub of the Wimmera.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020