Chris Gordon is also to be congratulated on his interactive online map on the Post’s website detailing what other regional centres have achieved.

Griffith Regional Theatre warrants a special mention.

Griffith has a similar population to Goulburn yet has a purpose built state of the art theatre with fixed tiered seating, an orchestra pit, a fly tower and importantly a stage big enough to accommodate all types of performances

Perusal of their website reveals an impressive and very full program of professional and community shows. Between now and Christmas there are 14 offerings including the 26 Storey Treehouse, Beauty and the Beast, Hamlet, concerts from visiting professional artists and Bangarra Dance Theatre to name a few.

The proposed conversion of the ceramics room at the Conservatorium in Goulburn would not allow many of these shows to be staged.

The stage is too small and there is no orchestra pit.

While it would be better than nothing, it is a make-do solution.

Its limitations will ultimately be frustrating and lead to potential underutilisation. Goulburn deserves better.

Council GM Warwick Bennett’s proposed sporting complex has a bigger budget, yet it is hard to imagine it being filled to capacity more than two to three times a year at the most.

Goulburn does not need another sports venue at this point in time. The Civic Centre refurbishment can also wait.

Let’s instead spend more on a purpose built performing arts centre.

Perhaps it could go on the old Lilac City Motors site. This would also allow readily available parking (Marketplace shoppers by day and theatre goers in the evening). Those tree changers we are always trying to attract are likely to be more impressed by a decent performing arts centre than a sports stadium.

Ultimately it has the best potential to be utilised by the greatest cross-section of the community and put Goulburn properly on the map.

Rod McConnell, Goulburn.