After more than a year of extensive renovations, Camden Council is proud to reopen the doors of the newly transformed Camden Civic Centre.
The $9.9 million upgrade has reimagined the facility as a modern, multi-purpose venue, designed to meet the growing needs of the Camden community while also positioning the venue as a destination for world-class events, performances and exhibitions.
The upgrades, which targeted both visitor experience and technical capacity, include:
- Improved connectivity from John Street, creating a more seamless and welcoming entrance;
- Affordable multipurpose art-making and community spaces, opening up new opportunities for local creatives;
- Significant functional upgrades, including enhanced acoustics, improved storage, modernised back-of-house spaces, and better stormwater management;
- Improved outdoor areas for multipurpose use, offering flexibility for events and community gatherings;
- Expanded capacity for touring exhibitions and performances, ensuring Camden can host high-quality, large-scale productions; and
- An enriched customer experience, with contemporary amenities and a design that reflects Camden's evolving identity.
The redevelopment was made possible by the $7.7 million in funding from the NSW Government's Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program, alongside Camden Council's $2.2 million contribution.
Beyond the structural and technical improvements, Council also secured $59,663 through the NSW Government's Creative Capital Funding Program, contributing to the replacement of the grand piano, enhancing performance capabilities and ensuring the venue remains attractive to musicians and touring acts.
Public art installations have also been integrated into the Centre, enriching its role as a cultural space. These installations highlight Camden's unique heritage, while also creating contemporary points of interest that inspire community pride. They include a hand-painted mural by Dharawal artist, Michael Fardon; a hand-painted mural by founders of Dalmarri Art, Trevor Eastwood and Jason Douglas; sculptural seating art by Abbey Michelle Rich; a stainless steel sculpture entitled The Eternal Flame by Odilon Barraquio; and an incredible light box exhibition space, the inaugural exhibition featuring the work of Camden artist Jane Wray.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the project respected the Centre's rich history and the need to modernise and grow with the changing area.
"Camden Civic Centre first opened its doors back in 1982 and, ever since, has been a cornerstone of our community," she said.
"From weddings and celebrations to art exhibitions, live theatre, and corporate functions, it has served as a space where the Camden community, and visitors from far and wide, gather, create and connect.
"This upgrade ensures the Camden Civic Centre remains a central cultural and community hub for the Camden community for years to come. The improvements have added incredible value to the facility and created new vibrant outdoor spaces and connection to the heritage town centre.
"We're so excited to welcome residents and visitors back to experience the renewed Camden Civic Centre and to show you what's new and improved."
To celebrate its re-opening, the Centre will host a variety of exciting events, including:
- Small Business Month Networking Event - 23 October
- Just a Farmer Film Screening - 24 October
- AKMAL - 25 October
- Camden Mental Health Expo - 25 October
- Macarthur Mayor's Charity Dinner - 7 November
- A Tribute to Carole King and James Taylor - 16 November
- Camden Careers and Jobs Expo - 20 November
- Kath and Kim Drag Bingo - 22 November
- Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase - 28 November
- Back to the Mac: The Fleetwood Mac Experience - 19 December
Future programming promises to remain diverse and accessible for all members of the community, marking an exciting new era for the Civic Centre, particularly as the Camden area continues to grow and change.
For more information on these shows, to see what else is coming up and to secure a ticket, visit www.camdenciviccentre.com.au
