Doors have opened at Burnie's new cultural precinct, following a $20.5 million revitalisation of the city's arts institutions in the heart of the CBD.
The Burnie Cultural Precinct redevelopment includes upgrades to the Burnie Arts and Function Centre, Museum and Art Gallery and Civic Plaza.
The Burnie Arts and Function Centre has received a complete interior refurbishment, providing a modern experience for visitors including transformation of the existing courtyard into an indoor atrium, and delivering a multi-functional 'Long Room'.
The end result has created a more welcoming and integrated public space, while providing increased flexibility for event delivery and community programs.
Likewise, the Museum and Art Gallery, and Civic Plaza have received fresh upgrades, including an outdoor stage for performances, amphitheatre seating, a children's play area and improved accessibility throughout.
100,000 visitors are expected to visit the upgraded arts precinct each year over the next five years.
The redevelopment was funded with $18 million from the Australian Government, including $13 million through the Albanese Government's Priority Community Infrastructure Program (PCIP).
The PCIP delivers important community facilities and social infrastructure across all corners of the nation, including vital shared spaces like the Burnie Cultural Precinct.
In addition to delivering lasting benefits to the arts community of Tasmania's north-west, the Burnie Arts Precinct redevelopment created 50 jobs during construction and will support 10 new ongoing positions.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"The new cultural precinct will deliver lasting benefits to the Burnie community.
"It's not just about improving the look and feel of an ageing building, it's about driving the visitor economy and delivering those financial benefits to local businesses.
"Most importantly it's about incentivising the arts in the community, fostering local up-and-comers, and bringing in performances and exhibitions of all forms to Tasmania's north-west."
Quotes attributable to Member for Braddon Anne Urquhart:
"North West Coasters now have access to a world-class cultural precinct, delivering on the Albanese Government's 2022 election commitment.
"This new facility is a win for the community of Burnie. It brings fresh energy into the CBD, supports local businesses, and makes Burnie a must-visit destination for anyone travelling through Tasmania and provides a cultural, relaxing environment for residents of Burnie, workers and the whole community to enjoy.
"This was a welcome investment from the Albanese Government, and has delivered a much needed project into a reality."
