Major cultural project takes next step

A countrywide and global search has commenced to obtain architects to design the New Hamilton Gallery (NHG).

Southern Grampians Shire Council recently released the tender to engage architects to undertake conceptual design of the NHG.

It is a defining moment in the history of the town, community and region, with the endorsement of the NHG design tender pack being presented and approved at July’s council meeting.

The tender alongside the allocation in the recent council budget to fund the design, will usher in a new enlightenment era of culture and tourism for the community.

Like all exceptional and significant projects such as the creation of Lake Hamilton in 1977 and the inception of the Gallery in 1961, the community has driven and played an important role to advocate and see this project to fruition.

Mayor Cr Robertson said this was a wonderful example of how the public, council and councillors have collaborated to see the long-term visions of the community become a reality.

“We are taking action to grow and highlight our position as a unique and important place within Australia,” Mayor Robertson said. “The New Hamilton Gallery will grow our visitor economy and have a significant economic impact on the region and will complement our agricultural history. It will amplify our culture and the great things our region has achieved and has to offer.

“Not only will it elevate the cultural identity of the Southern Grampians on a national stage, but it will be a place of inclusion and belonging to all members of our community, who will be proud of their gallery.”

Gallery director Joshua White said in 1961 the original gallery was built and opened due to the community’s efforts.

“The new gallery project is no different and has had remarkable support during its decade long journey,” Mr White said. “The Felix Group, the Trust, the Friends, and many individuals have been committed to the project for the betterment of the community. Now, our nationally significant collection which has been donated and gifted by the public, will have a building to match.”

Southern Grampians Shire Council CEO Tony Doyle said it was an important moment.

“It is the commencement of an intergenerational project that will positively impact the community for years to come,” Mr Doyle said. “Future generations of families, children, businesses and tourists will benefit from what we are achieving with this project, and it will positively impact the lives of every community member.

“We have the opportunity to design a cultural beacon, where our history and identity can be celebrated, and our collection and cultural projects can educate and inspire.”

Council partnered with the University of Melbourne, Design School experts, Deputy Dean Professor Alan Pert, and Associate Professor Rory Hyde, to consult with the community and develop the tender brief.

A central element to the tender is seven key principles that architects are requested to respond to including local identity, civic life, creative pathways, the collection, the natural environment, First Nations culture and Connections (with the town).

To coincide with the release of the design tender, Hamilton Gallery will open a focus exhibition titled; Cultivating Place: The Evolving Blueprint of Hamilton, which highlights the town through paintings, photographs, drawings, maps and civic objects.

This exhibition asks audiences to reflect on the past and contemplate the future and what the New Hamilton Gallery will mean to them.

The NHG design tender will close on Monday, August 19.