$10 million for grand old queen

RENOVATIONS at Her Majesty’s Theatre will get a $10 million cash injection if the ALP retains power in under two weeks.

With a total $22.3 million cost for the upgrade, Labor’s pledge goes along way to getting the project fully funded.

So far the City of Ballarat has committed $5.3 million and Heritage Victoria $2 million, leaving a current shortfall of $5 million.

Works as part of the project at Her Majesty’s include fixing the walls, ceilings and floors, installation of lifts, fixing the roof trusses, automation of the orchestra pit and improvements to dressing rooms and public areas.

“We know that this beautiful theatre needs urgent repairs and only Labor will once again open its doors to performers, patrons and visitors,” said Candidate for Buninyong Michaela Settle.

Juliana Addison, ALP candidate for Wendouree, said the theatre held an important place in the hearts of residents.

“As a mum of girls who love to sing and dance, I know how special it is for them to perform at Her Maj.,” she said.

“Labor will ensure that future generations of performers can continue to tread the boards of this Ballarat treasure.”

With a current $5 million shortfall in funding for the project, the Labor Party is calling on the Federal Government to come to the show and provide the rest.

City of Ballarat Mayor Cr. Samantha McIntosh said the municipality was about to approach the Commonwealth Government for the funds.

“We’re about to submit an application for funding from the federal government as well,” she said.

“We will continue to work with all sides and levels of government to ensure a magnificent future for this beautiful theatre.”