News

Goolwa to be regional centre

Goolwa to be 2012 regional centre of culture

Minister Assisting the Premier in the Arts John Hill has announced in Parliament that Goolwa will be the third South Australian Regional Centre of Culture.

“Of the $1.8 million, which has been allocated by the State Government to the program in 2012, $800,000 will be invested in upgrading cultural infrastructure in Goolwa.” Minister Hill said.

The Alexandrina Council will also contribute over $700,000 to the capital upgrade which will see:

• The town’s historic Centenary Hall upgraded to provide a versatile performing arts space with a moveable stage, retractable curtains, retractable tiered seating, dressing rooms and a green room, high quality sound and lighting systems and new storage areas and foyer space
• Exhibition space at Signal Point further developed with moveable walls, a retractable curtain and audio visual equipment
• The Old Police Station / South Coast Regional Arts Centre upgraded with improved air-conditioning system, kitchen facilities and an outdoor courtyard function area.

Minister Hill said the Council’s demonstrated commitment to the integration of arts and culture across its community clinched its bid for the title of 2012 Regional Centre of Culture.

“The Alexandrina Council and the town of Goolwa are worthy winners,” he said.

“I have no doubt that the council, working with Country Arts SA and our State’s many great arts organisations, will deliver an exciting program of arts and cultural activities in 2012 which the community across the southern Fleurieu Peninsula will fully embrace.”

Alexandrina Mayor Kym McHugh said. “Alexandrina Council is very excited by the news that we have been awarded the Regional Centre for Culture funding program for 2012.

“This will be a great boost for our extensive cultural community and will mean an enormous social and economic benefit to the Alexandrina region and indeed the entire Fleurieu Peninsula.”

The SA Regional Centre of Culture Program, announced in 2006 by the Rann Government, is a major biennial arts initiative based on the European Capital of Culture model aimed at encouraging
new investment in cultural infrastructure and increasing access to the arts.

Port Augusta and Murray Bridge have been the host towns in 2008 and 2010 respectively.