On the eve of the much anticipated opening of the Ulumbarra Theatre, Minister for Public Transport and Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan, has announced a program to help local students, disadvantaged groups and young people in rural areas make the most of Bendigo’s new performing and visual arts hub.
The Arts Access Project will provide subsidised travel to students and other young people in Bendigo and surrounding areas to access events and programs at the new Ulumbarra Theatre and Bendigo Arts Precinct.
Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, said the Project would enable rural and disadvantaged young people to access to arts events at larger venues and participate in arts programs on a higher scale than they currently may be able to access.
The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources will provide $45,000 to the Arts Access Project through its Transport Investing in Regions initiative, with in-kind support of $5,000 from the City of Greater Bendigo.
The new Ulumbarra Theatre was developed at Bendigo’s former gaol and includes a state-of-the-art 953 seat theatre; music, dance and drama studios; learning kitchens and an outdoor area for Bendigo Secondary College students.
The $25.8 million Ulumbarra project was funded by the Australian Government ($12.3 million), the Victorian Department of Education and Training ($7.5 million), the City of Greater Bendigo ($3 million) and Regional Development Victoria ($3 million).
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Public Transport and Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan
“We want to make sure local kids, no matter where they live or what their background, have access to the new theatre and arts precinct, and the broad range of the programs and events it will host.
“The Andrews Labor Government is working with local councils and organisations to build stronger communities in Bendigo and across regional Victoria.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards
“The Bendigo Arts Precinct produces amazing performing and visual arts, and attracts national and international artists.”
“Getting involved in visual and performing arts is a great way for young people to develop their skills, build confidence and connect to the broader community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020