Emcee Warren Brown hit the nail on the head when he declared Goulburn's new performing arts centre as a "triumph of imagination, creativity and of architectural and engineering excellence."
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The new $18.95 million facility has been warmly received by the community not just as a much-needed venue but a wonderful adaptive re-use of the 1887 former town hall designed by our very own, EC Manfred.
Architects Brewster Hjorth should be congratulated for a deep appreciation of this heritage. They have successfully applied the old building's elements in themes throughout the project. Likewise, Zauner Constructions has shown great attention to detail in its work, amid COVID and weather challenges.
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The Goulburn and district community's appreciation was obvious on opening night. Not since the Lilac Time Hall's closure have we had such a large performance space. Humorously, the entertaining 'ReENTRANCE' production, adeptly directed by Alfie and Alecia Walker, even managed to incorporate that "we sold it (the hall) for a song" in the early 2000s.
All that is in the past and as the ReENTRANCE stressed, it's time to look to the future. It appears very bright with the extremely energetic GPAC manager, Raina Savage, and her team already signing up more than 60 acts over the next year.
Far from being an exclusive activity, Ms Savage's efforts ensure Goulburn and district's arts and cultural groups can utilise the venue. This is especially important for the annual Goulburn Community of Schools concert, for example, but also other groups that struggle for a decent-sized performance space.
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The GPAC has attracted plenty of controversy over the past few years. The price tag has grown from an initial $8 million, then $11m estimate.
But in our view the $18.95m final cost will be money well spent for the difference it will make to the community. As Governor General David Hurley eloquently put it, arts and culture is an expression of our humanity. The delight on some of the youngest performers' faces on opening night said it all.
It all started with an idea by former council general manager Warwick Bennett in the middle of the night. Notably and regrettably, he was an apology for the opening, due to recent happenings.
Now, it's over to us to support this outstanding addition to our community.
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