The curtain is rising on a new chapter for the Yuin Theatre, with arts leader and long-time creative Indi Carmichael stepping in to guide its next phase.
A visual artist and graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), Ms Carmichael has spent the past 11 years helping shape Eurobodalla's creative spaces, including the Basil Sellers Exhibition Centre and Art Prize and programming at the Mechanics Institute.
Ms Carmichael is Eurobodalla Council's new manager of creative arts services. She has been tasked with supporting the transition of the Yuin Theatre and community rooms to Council's in-house management from 1 July 2026.
Ms Carmichael says her mission is to grow local theatre culture and activate the centre's community spaces, all while keeping a close eye on finances.
"It's an extraordinary piece of architecture right in the centre of town - we're incredibly lucky to have it," she said.
"The Clyde gallery is a great hireable space, as well as the wet and dry workshop rooms and beautiful sprung floor in the dance rehearsal room. We need to see local drama groups and artists fill up these spaces with vibrant activity."
"By building on Aligned Leisure's good work, this can be a place where people gather, enjoy workshops, see performances and connect with creativity."
Another key focus for Ms Carmichael was to see kids involved from a young age: "Whether it's drama clubs, workshops, dance or movement classes, these spaces give young people a chance to explore creativity and see career opportunities the arts can offer."
Eurobodalla Council's manager of community development and participation Kim Bush said moving to an in-house model was important to grow the region's arts offering and reduce the facility's operating costs over time.
"Indi and the team will keep costs down, making the most of the facilities through programming, partnerships and community use," Ms Bush said.
Ms Bush said the Yuin Theatre and community rooms will operate under Council from July, like most regional performing arts centres around Australia. It will join Council's other cultural assets including the Bas, libraries and Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden.
"Strong financial management means we can invest in these facilities, strengthening community life and making sure they remain accessible, valued and sustainable into the future," Ms Bush said.
Ms Bush said Council was also exploring regional partnerships with other venues to support touring productions.
"By working with other regional theatres, we can make it easier for promoters to include Eurobodalla on touring schedules," she said.
"It allows venues to share costs and bring high-quality performances to regional audiences."
The transition to Council management will continue over the coming months as Council staff work alongside Aligned Leisure to ensure a smooth handover of the theatre, bar, gallery and community room operations.
