Sunshine Coast's premier performing arts and conference centre – The Events Centre at Caloundra – is in the midst of a $6 million redevelopment, with the most significant stage of work due to start next month.
Co-funded by Sunshine Coast Council and the Australian Government through the Building Better Regions Fund, the plans unveiled today (November 23) include an upgraded theatre, covered deck area, function room and covered entrance today.
To ensure the redevelopment is completed as quickly as possible, the centre will close for four months, reopening in late April 2019.
The Events Centre chairman and Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer said the upgrade included internal and external improvements that would assist in attracting more high-profile events, as well as providing residents and patrons with improved access, comfort, acoustics and visitor services.
"The Events Centre is one of the Sunshine Coast's largest venues and it welcomes national and international performing artists," Cr Dwyer said.
"Last year just over 105,000 patrons attended performances and business events held at the Events Centre.
"The proposed redevelopment will enable The Events Centre to continue to attract top end entertainment and performances, whilst offering our residents access to an array of cultural opportunities and business events that are an incredibly important part of the economic and social fabric of our region.
"A premium showcase venue will attract new visitors to the region, visitors who would most likely extend their length of stay and generate a substantial economic boost.
"A redeveloped Events Centre will also enhance Caloundra's cultural precinct, integrated as it is with the nearby Caloundra Art Gallery and council library."
The Australian Government has contributed $3 million through the Building Better Regions Fund.
Fast facts
The Events Centre, Caloundra $6 million redevelopment project will include:
- Main entrance (Porte Cochere and covered link)
- Foyer refurbishment upgrade
- Box office, bar counters and function room upgrades
- Acoustic upgrades to theatre walls and ceiling
- Dividing walls between main theatre and Glasshouse Room
- Beausang Room refurbishment
- Operable wall between Beausang Room and foyer
- Veranda café upgrade
- Air-conditioning and heating upgrades
- New people with disability (PWD) toilets and PWD lift from carpark to foyer level
