The City of Greater Bendigo is seeking a head contractor for its largest-ever construction project, the redevelopment of Bendigo Art Gallery.
Expressions of interest opened this week for construction companies with the capability to deliver stage one of the project, valued at $45M.
Stage one will transform the Gallery and deliver a second level blockbuster exhibition space, innovative learning centre, theatrette and Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.
City of Greater Bendigo Chief Executive Officer Andrew Cooney said he expected there would be significant interest from the construction sector to be part of the project.
"The Gallery redevelopment is a major, city-defining project for Bendigo. It is an investment in arts and culture as well as the economic future of our region, and would be an incredible project for a construction company to have in its portfolio," Mr Cooney said.
"An expression of interest process is an opportunity for construction companies to demonstrate their capacity and experience in delivering projects of this scale and complexity. They must also be able to outline how they will utilise the local sub-contractor network and employment of local staff."
Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot said it would be beneficial for the successful tender to have experience in delivering cultural projects.
"Our focus is to deliver a world-class gallery experience and contemporary building that cements the Gallery's reputation as an empowering, inclusive and engaging cultural facility for future generations," Ms Bridgfoot said.
"It is a project that incorporates our heritage gallery spaces - Abbott, Drury and Bolton courts - and a key focus of the building's façade and a critical feature of the redevelopment is honouring the Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owners, so it will be important the head contractor understands the vision we have set out for this next chapter in the Gallery's history."
It is expected construction will commence in early in 2026 and take approximately two years to complete.
Funding partners for the redevelopment include the Victorian Government, City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Art Gallery Board and philanthropic donors, including the Sidney Myer Fund and The Ian Potter Foundation.
The expression of interest process is open until June 30 and available via Vendor Panel or visiting the City's website.
