Bendigo’s Performing Arts Centre, The Capital, will receive a major upgrade thanks to a $650,000 Brumby Government grant announced today.
Regional and Rural Development Minister Jacinta Allan said the Brumby Government is taking action now to improve arts and cultural facilities like The Capital in Bendigo and across regional Victoria.
“The Capital was opened in 1873 as a Masonic Hall and is the last of the recognised Bendigo theatres and is listed with the National Trust and Heritage Victoria," Ms Allan said.
“The project will build on Bendigo’s reputation as a major, vibrant regional centre and provide further stimulus to the arts and culture community and the local economy.
"Refurbishing the historic basement space in The Capital will create a flexible hospitality and performance space and other upgrades include a climate control system and a passenger lift. "Refurbishing the historic basement space in The Capital will create a flexible hospitality and performance space."
"Another important part of this $1.4 million project is the conservation and restoration of The Capital’s historic heritage façade.
"The new basement function, performance and café space will provide the opportunity for a new business venture and complement the numerous cafés, antique stores, collectables and fine arts shops in View Street.
“This is the fifth major capital works project to be announced as part of the Brumby Government’s $38 million commitment to boosting regional arts, cultural and recreation facilities, which includes $30 million from the RIDF to build new facilities.
“A strong arts and cultural sector strengthens local and regional identity, creates a more engaged and active community, and encourages skills development and employment opportunities, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
“The RIDF has been successful in leveraging funds to deliver much-needed infrastructure projects across Victoria, with the provision of arts and cultural facilities a priority.
“Since its inception, the RIDF has contributed $422.9 million to 204 announced major capital works projects throughout provincial Victoria with an estimated total value of $1.27 billion.”
Funding provided through the Brumby Government’s Regional Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) is on top of $719,000 provided by the City of Greater Bendigo.