One of the oldest theatres in the country, Her Majesty’s Theatre in Ballarat, will benefit from the Andrews Labor Government’s investment into Victoria’s historic treasures.
The theatre, which opened in 1875, represents the opulence of the 19th century Victorian goldfields era, and is one of the lasting theatres of its type in Victoria with double horse-shoe shaped balconies.
Her Majesty’s Theatre in Ballarat has received a $3 million grant for conservation and upgrade works, including waterproofing, drainage and structural repairs and upgrades to doors and windows.
The improvements will build on recent restoration works to the building's façade, north elevation, seating and internal plasterwork conducted by the City of Ballarat.
The Victorian Budget 2016-17 allocated $30 million to restoring heritage buildings, the largest financial boost from a state government into Victoria’s heritage sites.
The funding will be used for conservation works and for community heritage grants for heritage buildings which are at risk of dilapidation.
Heritage is a major attraction for rural and regional Victoria, 1.9 million people visited state-listed heritage sites last year and more than half were international visitors, highlighting the need to protect and maintain the state’s significant buildings.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne
“Victoria’s heritage is at the heart of our regional tourism and restoration works on attractions such as Her Majesty’s Theatre will allow regional icons to stay in good repair.”
“We have identified buildings around Victoria which will benefit from the biggest investment ever made into preserving Victoria’s heritage.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree, Sharon Knight
“Her Majesty’s Theatre is irreplaceable, it is a Ballarat destination in its own right but also accommodates a full calendar of shows and events.”
“The Andrews Labor Government and the City of Ballarat are working towards a long and prosperous future for the theatre.”
Quotes attributable to the Member for Buninyong, Geoff Howard
“Word has spread internationally that Victoria’s regional cities are worth a visit from tourists and we want to build on that success.”
“Our gold rush era produced some of the best architecture from the 19th century and we have a responsibility to maintain its integrity.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020