Architectural firm Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects has been appointed to design a major refurbishment project at Central Regional TAFE's Geraldton campus, as part of the WA Recovery Plan.
The $2 million upgrade will see a 50-year-old trades workshop extended and transformed into six learning spaces for creative industries, and will create local jobs during construction.
The ageing workshop, known as I Block, will be refurbished to include three traditional art studios and three classrooms where Geraldton's next generation of artists, fashion designers and media specialists will learn the tools of their trade.
Modern amenities for students and lecturers will also take shape as part of the transformation of the I Block workshop.
Construction of the new creative industries training facilities, which is anticipated to start in July 2021, will unlock jobs in the Mid-West, and when the new spaces are opened, increased student capacity will have positive flow on benefits for local small businesses.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"This is an important project for the Mid-West region that will create jobs during construction and better training opportunities for locals.
"My Government is working hard to deliver on the WA Recovery Plan to ensure Western Australia bounces back from the COVID-19 pandemic, stronger than ever.
"It's good to see this important project progressing quickly and I look forward to construction getting underway next year.
"We are undertaking the biggest TAFE capital works program in history, while slashing TAFE fees by up to 72 per cent. I'm proud to lead a Government that has made TAFE a priority, as it always should have been."
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"This $2 million refurbishment will provide young people and job seekers in the Mid-West with access to world-class learning opportunities while generating a pipeline of jobs.
"The McGowan Government is revitalising WA's training sector, which will deliver a boost to the economy and help the State get back on track."
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Laurie Graham:
"I am proud to be part of the McGowan Government that continues to invest in jobs and skills in the Mid-West.
"These upgrades will provide a fantastic learning space and opportunities for interested students to gain a qualification in the creative industries.
"We already have a vibrant and creative arts scene in Geraldton.
"This new training opportunity will add to that and enhance the liveability of Geraldton and the broader region over the coming years."
Education and Training Minister's office - 6552 5700
