Shire to test centre’s theatrical potential

THE Surf Coast Shire will further evaluate the prospect of converting the Surf Coast Sport and Recreation Centre for use as a theatre.

The council allocated $30,000 in its 2018-19 budget for the feasibility study, and officers will aim to provide an update on findings by October.

The centre on Beach Road is expected to be available for other uses by mid-2020, as the shire proceeds with the building of the Surf Coast Multipurpose Stadium in Torquay North.

The evaluation will complement a 2015 Arts Space Feasibility Study and consider further matters including assessment of the stadium’s condition and suitability for short-term repurposing as a theatre, funding, options for staged development and potential for operating a theatre in partnership with community groups.

The study will engage with members of the arts community, including Torquay Theatre Troupe.

Shire mayor David Bell said establishing a dedicated theatre and arts space remained a priority.

“Our 2015 study identified that Surf Coast Shire is under-supplied for dedicated arts spaces, yet we are listed as one of regional Australia’s creative hot-spots.

“We recognise the lack of a purpose-built theatre space, and the value of the arts in contributing to a thriving community.

“We need to have a detailed look at whether the existing sport and recreation centre can be converted and what might be involved before we make any firm decisions.”

Councillors resolved at their July 24 meeting to proceed with the further work.

The resolution comes following confirmation of $5 million in federal government funding that has accelerated plans for the new stadium, which will add three multi-use courts, administration, amenities and foyer areas to an existing one-court building next to Surf Coast Secondary College.