Surf Coast Shire Council will pursue a staged approach and is applying for multiple millions of dollars to deliver the Cultural Facility and Library project.
Located at 77 Beach Road Torquay, the four-in-one facility will include a new Library, Australian National Surfing Museum, Visitor Information and Arts Facility and will deliver social connections, increased visitation and a boost for the Surf City Precinct.
Council decided on a staged approach to deliver the overall vision of the building. The current community-led Multi Arts Centre in the former sport and recreation building will receive the first upgrade with $1.4 million investment from the federal government’s 2022 Local Roads and Community Infrastructure allocation so it becomes a more fit for purpose arts facility.
Then, stage one will deliver a new Library, Australian National Surf Museum, Visitor Information Centre, maker spaces and rehearsal spaces worth $33 million expected in 2024. Council resolved to pursue $9 million in funding from the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund ($7.5 million) and Living Libraries Infrastructure Program ($1.5 million for stage one). Council has committed just over $8 million to the project through these grant applications.
Stage two is expected in 2030 and will deliver a fully developed new 250-seat theatre, brand new gallery and artist in residence area. It is estimated to cost $21 million and Council will need to secure future funding to help deliver this state of the art facility.
Cr Rose Hodge said this was a huge step for the vibrant local arts community and creative industries.
“We heard loud and clear through developing the Council Plan that arts and creativity is a huge part of our Surf Coast Shire communities,” she said.
“Kicking off this project with substantial funding applications brings the dream closer to reality and will deliver such great social, cultural and economic benefits to the Surf Coast Shire.”
“We know our creatives will uses these spaces as will local families and visitors to our region. This increased visitation to a new and exciting facility will deliver strong benefits for the precinct, the town and the municipality.”
