Dignitaries welcome Jan Juc stage

A NEW Jan Juc performance space has officially opened, after representatives from federal government, council and the local community gathered for a ribbon cutting.

Jan Juc Live began using the Yellow Gums Performance Space at Bob Pettitt Reserve last month before Monday’s official opening, providing local creatives with an outdoor stage to showcase their talents.

Victoria Senator Sarah Henderson joined Surf Coast Shire council mayor Libby Stapleton, Torquay Community Enterprise’s Paul Thompson and Jan Juc performer Paul Thompson to welcome the space this week.

Cr Stapleton said the space was the product collaboration with the local performing arts community.

“It’s been a wonderful partnership project led by the community right from the start, and I know how excited the Jan Juc Live group is to see all their hard work come to life,” she said.

“The local arts community has been calling for a place where locals can come together for boutique events like Christmas carols and acoustic performances.

“Yellow Gums Performance Space facilitates and allows artists to showcase their creative diversity, and it’s something the community can enjoy for years to come.”

Mr Thompson acknowledged his fellow project champion Phil Avery, who died before its completion.

The federal government gave $140,000 for the project, while the council, Torquay Community Enterprise and Jan Juc locals chipped in $50,000 for landscaping and irrigation.