Local construction company Fairbrother Construction will lead the $45M redevelopment of Bendigo Art Gallery - the City of Greater Bendigo's largest-ever infrastructure project.
Following a competitive tender process, Fairbrother's appointment was endorsed at the November Council meeting.
Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the Gallery had been Council's number one priority project.
"This exciting announcement marks the beginning of a landmark project for our city and region," Cr Prince said.
"The new Bendigo Art Gallery will be a destination of national and international significance - a vibrant, engaging space defined by timeless architecture and designed to inspire both our community and visitors."
The project will deliver a second level blockbuster exhibition space, innovative learning centre, theatrette and Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.
City Chief Executive Officer Andrew Cooney said the Gallery project was an exciting opportunity for the local construction sector to be part of.
"Fairbrother stood out for its experienced local team, commitment to engaging local sub-contractors, and proven track record delivering major projects on time and on budget," Mr Cooney said.
"Fairbrother has also built similar cultural attractions across Australia, including our own Gallery extension in 2014 and the iconic MoNA in Tasmania.
"This project is an incredible investment in arts and culture as well as the economic future of our region, and we look forward to working with Fairbrother to bring this new building to life."
The redevelopment is expected to generate more than 260 jobs during construction, with the completed project creating 170 local jobs and driving up to $35M in annual spending for the local economy.
Fairbrother General Manager - Victoria, Ben Millar, said the firm was thrilled to be appointed to lead the construction of the Gallery's next chapter.
"Fairbrother has a strong track record of delivering community infrastructure projects within the Bendigo region, inclusive of previous stages at the Gallery and we appreciate this opportunity to again contribute to the cultural landscape of our community," Mr Millar said.
"It is a privilege to be involved in such a pivotal project for the Bendigo region, which will welcome future generations of visitors, artists and local families and further strengthen Bendigo's reputation as a leading destination for the arts in regional Australia."
Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot welcomed Fairbrother to the project and said the team was now focused on preparing for the Gallery's closure later this month.
"We're excited to work with Fairbrother, whose team clearly demonstrated an understanding of the project's bespoke design and high-quality finish requirements," Ms Bridgfoot said.
"Our goal is to deliver a world-class gallery and a place that honours the Gallery's founding motto, 'Art for the People,' when it was established 138 years ago."
The Gallery will close to the public on Sunday November 30, as staff continue transferring artworks into storage.
Since July, the team has been preparing for the closure and planning an offsite program, including CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs in LEGO® Bricks, opening at the Discovery Science and Technology Centre in March 2026. Tickets go on sale Monday December 1, 2025.
The redeveloped Gallery is expected to reopen in early 2028, with more announcements to come on exhibitions, events and activations during the closure.
The redevelopment project is being funded by a $21M investment from the Victorian Government, $9M from the City of Greater Bendigo, $4M from the Gallery Board, and more than $9.35M in philanthropic support, including major contributions of $4M from the Sidney Myer Fund and $3M from the Ian Potter Foundation.
