Urban scheme to bring life to Geelong’s vacant spaces

OWNERS of vacant properties in Geelong and artists are invited to connect and take part in a new initiative to reinvigorate empty spaces in the centre of the city.

Renew Geelong is the brainchild of Renew Australia and is an urban renewal scheme that aims to fill empty buildings and spaces to bring new life to under-used and under-appreciated precincts, while simultaneously providing emerging artists and performers with a forum for showcasing their talent.

A not-for-profit social enterprise, Renew Geelong is funded by the City of Greater Geelong and Creative Victoria to match spaces to projects and ensure that potential tenants complement surrounding businesses.

Working with local property owners, Renew Geelong will deliver rolling 30-day free leases that place creative enterprises and projects into empty spaces, activating and enhancing the value of properties while long-term, paying tenants are secured.

The spaces are provided to creative tenants free of charge subject to a nominal fee for public and product liability insurance.

The initiative removes substantial risks for budding creatives in setting up premises and taking their ideas to the next level.

Renew Geelong is now inviting expressions of interest from individuals and groups who would like to use space for creative projects within central Geelong.

“Interest in the Renew Geelong project has been overwhelming with numerous properties owners committed to the concept,” Renew Australia manager Angela Simons said.

“We aim to reinvigorate less-appreciated areas of central Geelong and develop creative pockets that attract visitation from residents and tourists alike.”

Geelong acting mayor Peter Murrihy strongly encouraged individuals and groups with an idea for creating or producing goods, services or events to consider the initiative.

“Renew Geelong is based on several successful ventures co-ordinated by Renew Australia including the renewed arts and creative precinct Docklands Spaces.

“Renew Geelong will offer a safety net for artists and other creative individuals and connect them with mentoring and skills development to help turn great ideas into successful enterprises.”

For more information or to register your interest, head to renewgeelong.org.