victorian association of performing arts centres

Millions announced for Entertainment Centre revamp

The Warrnambool’s Entertainment Centre redevelopment project has received a $2.16 million funding boost from the Rudd Government.

The redevelopment will cost a total of $8.8 million and will see the 26-year-old building completely redeveloped to provide modern facilities. Improvements will include:

• an enlarged foyer and café
• new seating a new smaller, intimate theatre to compliment that main theatre
• improved access including an elevator
• upgrading all technical equipment
• improving amenities including the loading dock, green room dressing rooms and toilets

Warrnambool City Council chief executive Bruce Anson said funding from the Federal Government would ensure the Entertainment Centre was redeveloped to a standard that would provide great benefits to the Warrnambool community and artists who use the facility.

Mr Anson hoped the project would support local arts and community organisations and increase local participation in the performing arts.

The redeveloped Entertainment Centre is expected to attract a greater range of entertainers to the city and draw visitors from a wider area.

The revitalisation is expected to boost annual ticket sales by about 30,000 and the new facility will host up to 300 community functions per year. The construction phase of the project is expected to generate more than $3 million for the local economy. It will also provide an additional 8 jobs once the project is complete

The funding is part of the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, which is delivering a record $1 billion for nearly 5,000 projects across the nation.