The Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre in Picton was officially opened yesterday. A multi-format facility, it includes a 350 seat venue for performances and large functions.
It will bring more visitors to Wollondilly and will be the jewel in the crown of the Wollondilly Cultural Precinct, says Wollondilly Shire deputy mayor Matthew Deeth.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of the conception and delivery of this incredible and transformative project,’’ he said at yesterday’s opening ceremony.
“The performing arts are not just a nice thing to have or to do if there is free time, or if you can afford it,’’ Cr Deeth said.
“The performing arts define who we are and provide an account of our shared story for the next generation.
“This centre will provide a state-of-the-art local venue for music, theatre, exhibitions and civic events, and will be a major injection into the cultural life of Picton and the wider Wollondilly area.
“The completion of the WPAC will wrap up Stage 1 of the Wollondilly Cultural Precinct, which includes the Shire Hall refurbishment, library renovation and new Children’s service building.
“It is my vision for the precinct to become the community, civic, cultural and economic heart of Wollondilly,” he said.
The Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre project was funded by grants under Western Parkland City Liveability Program, Create NSW, Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants and council developer contributions and building renewal funds.
The Australian Government committed $5.5 million towards the development of the Wollondilly Cultural Precinct project, including the arts centre, through the Western Parkland City Liveability Program.
Projects funded under the liveability are delivering improved community facilities and urban amenity, and enhancing liveability to enable and complement new housing supply.
“Through our funding for the Wollondilly Cultural Precinct, the Australian Government in investing in new community facilities including a multi-purpose hall for large performances, a new library, an e-learning hub and connected workspaces,’’ said federal infrastructure, transport, regional development and local government minister Catherine King.
“This will result in a fantastic new space for creative activities, fine arts and gallery and exhibition spaces, breathing new life into the shire’s cultural landscape.”
