CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON WORLD CLASS CONSERVATORIUM AND PLANETARIUM
Construction has started on the $30 million Orange Conservatorium and Planetarium.
The project, a 2019 election commitment of Independent Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee, was supported by a $10 million grant from the previous Australian Government.
Mr Gee welcomed the Prime Minister to Orange to join the community celebration of the turning of the first sod on Saturday 27 January 2024.
“To have the PM here to turn the first sod reflects the significance and importance of this game-changing project,” said Mr Gee.
“The $10 million came about as an election commitment that I made in the lead up to the 2019 federal election. At the time, the sceptics questioned whether the money would be delivered and whether the project would proceed. Today the doubts of the naysayers have well and truly been put to rest.
“Over the past three decades, the Conservatorium has gone from strength to strength. Its success in providing lessons, community ensembles programs and top-notch concerts means that a larger, purpose-built space is needed for the centre to continue to thrive.
“With more than 1400 music students currently enrolled aged from 1 to 80 years of age, the new site will allow the young and young at heart to gain a musical education in a first-class facility.
“The conservatorium will be a gem of regional Australia. It will be a model that other communities will follow. Students and staff will enjoy a recital hall with up to 323 seats, 40 practice studios and rehearsal spaces, front and back of house facilities including main lobby, bar and kitchen, and modern office spaces, amenities and ancillary spaces.
“This spectacular project will boost interest and participation in both the arts and sciences across the Central West. The Northcourt precinct will become a truly unique site, with the existing gallery, library and theatre to be complimented by the cutting-edge Conservatorium and Planetarium.
“The Conservatorium will host internationally acclaimed musicians, showcase the immense talent that we have in our region, give our home-grown stars a chance to hone their talent on a world class stage, and allow generations of students to reach their full musical potential.
“The 65-seat planetarium and science education centre will provide both hobby and professional astronomers with a fantastic facility to study the stars - while dazzling tourists from near and far. It will offer a truly extraordinary education and tourism experience.
“You simply can’t overstate how essential a thriving arts and culture scene is in the development of vibrant country communities.
“The state-of-the-art Conservatorium and Planetarium will encourage more people from the city to make a move to the Central West, and will be a big attraction for those considering re-locating to Orange,” said Mr Gee.
The project is scheduled for completion in mid-2025.
ENDS
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