Arts Centre tops out

CONSTRUCTION on Geelong’s new art centre reached a symbolic milestone last week (May 18) as developers Lend Lease laid the last beam atop the four-storey structure at Little Malop Street.

The ceremonial “topping out” of the $140 million redevelopment – that’s due for completion as early as mid-next year – brings the cultural hub a step closer to forming the largest regional arts centre in Australia, following the 2019 Ryrie Street redevelopment.

“Geelong Arts Centre will be a jewel in the regional creative crown, attracting visitors from across Australia and supporting local businesses and jobs,” Creative Industries Minister Danny Pearson said.

Mr Pearson and Geelong MP Christine Couzens earlier visited Viridian, the North Geelong glass manufacturer that’s supplying the centrepiece windows for the arts centre, to spruik the use of local supply chains.

“This project showcases the best of Geelong’s creativity, capability and ingenuity,” Ms Couzens said.

The Geelong company, once known as Pilkington, tacked from making automotive windscreens to construction glass after the closure of Ford and other car companies and has since retooled to become one of the largest purpose-built architectural glass facilities in Australia.

More than one in three of the 600 construction workers on the project hail from Geelong and once open, the facility is projected to create a further 300 ongoing jobs in the region.

The distinct design of the new Geelong Arts Centre is the work of ARM architects, the Melbourne-based firm behind dozens of notable projects including RMIT’s Storey Hall and the Melbourne Recital Centre.

Standing on the new Arts Centre rooftop, the firm’s founding director Ian McDougall pointed to the tessellated dome of the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre opposite and said, “we designed that too”.

When complete the performing arts space will house two theatres, an outdoor atrium and dining facilities open to the public.

Its main theatre will be able to accommodate large performances including plays, physical theatre and circus.

“I am incredibly grateful to all who have contributed to achieving today’s milestone – together we are creating Australia’s largest regional arts centre, a cultural and creative hub for all,” Geelong Arts Centre CEO and creative director Joel McGuinness said.