The landmark Bendigo GovHub has reached a key milestone in its construction, with the project creating hundreds of jobs and on track to be open early next year.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas today joined Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, local government representatives and Traditional Owners to celebrate completion of the building’s frame with a topping out ceremony, as it has reached the highest point in the city’s skyline.
Topping out is a major milestone and paves the way for the building’s fit out ahead of completion by the end of this year – with workers to move in when it officially open next year. The project has been supported by $90 million from the Andrews Labor Government.
Construction of the building is creating 200 new jobs, with another 1,000 jobs supported through the supply chain. Just over 90 per cent of contracts are with local Victorian organisations, in line with the Government’s Local Jobs First policy.
When complete, Galkangu will bring together up to 1,000 workers across nine local and state government agencies while reflecting the area’s unique natural environment, history and people. The development will inject $130 million into Bendigo’s local economy.
The project team led by Development Victoria, Regional Development Victoria and builders Icon Fairbrother have engaged extensively with DJAARA (Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation) and Elders on the project.
The name Galkangu means “we make things happen together and are more connected to Country” in Dja Dja Wurrung language. The façade, which has been designed by Dja Dja Wurrung, Yorta Yorta and Jaru artist Natasha Carter, will feature the shield of the Traditional Owners and will transform the city skyline.
The building design will achieve a minimum 5-Star Green Star Rating and will include efficient indoor air quality systems, solar panels, water and energy monitoring systems.
It is one of three GovHubs backed by the Labor Government to improve the way communities access public services, to boost local economies and provide better career opportunities to regional communities in Bendigo, Ballarat and the Latrobe Valley.
Quote attributable to Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
“Galkangu will create hundreds of new jobs and provide business confidence for the region as well as importantly reflecting Dja Dja Wurrung connections and culture.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“Galkangu will deliver better services to the community and bring renewed, vibrant activity to our growing city, while supporting more local jobs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“This collaboratively designed landmark in central Bendigo will be a convenient and inspirational centrepiece for locals to access government services in one location and a boost for Bendigo’s economy.”
Quote attributable to the General Manager of DJAARA Cassandra Lewis
“We continue to see amazing work that embeds Dja Dja Wurrung culture and identity into its foundations. The new Galkangu building will be shared, now and into the future, for generations to come.”
Reviewed 14 June 2022