Ararat will have a new, modern and attractive Arts Precinct thanks to a $3.7 million investment from the Andrews Labor Government.
The project will create 19 jobs during construction and five full time ongoing jobs when complete.
Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford, today unveiled the concept designs for the new Arts Precinct to increase the town’s ability to attract major exhibitions and nationally recognised performers to the region, boosting the local economy and creating jobs.
The Labor Government’s investment towards the project will redevelop Ararat’s historic Town Hall, enhance the Ararat Performing Arts Centre (APAC) and the Ararat Regional Art Gallery (ARAG), both housed in the building.
The project includes:
- A new public entrance to the Ararat Regional Art Gallery
- Expanding and enhancing art gallery and performance spaces
- Upgrading public amenities
- Upgrading the Ararat Performing Arts Centre foyer and a new box office
- A new café and bar
- Landscaping upgrades.
The enhanced facilities, along with expanded display and storage spaces, will secure the long-term viability of Ararat as a cultural tourism destination, capable of developing and attracting ambitious, blockbuster programs.
The strategic co-location of APAC and ARAG will improve the visitor experience by providing a larger variety of arts and performance attractions, encouraging repeat visitation and boosting the region’s visitor economy.
The project has been identified as a high priority project by Ararat City Council and has strong support from the local community who have already raised $74,000 to support the project.
The community has set an ambitious target of raising a total of $100,000 through the community fundraising prospectus.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“This is good news for local tourism and good news for local jobs.”
“Ararat’s new Arts Precinct will ensure locals and visitors alike can enjoy ongoing access to the very best in local and international arts and culture entertainment.”
“It’s an exciting project that is set to promote Ararat as a premier cultural tourism destination, making sure new talent comes to Ararat.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020