Surf Coast Shire Council is calling on its residents to become advocates for a major community infrastructure project ahead of the federal election.
The shire is hoping to see a swell of community support to help secure funding for its proposed Surf Coast Cultural Centre in Torquay.
Mayor Libby Stapleton said the council was hoping to see the community contact their local members of parliament, at both state and federal level, government ministers and election candidates to advocate for the major project.
“Community support will be key for us securing funding for this exciting project, which will have far-reaching impact benefiting generations,” she said.
“With a federal election on the way we are asking people to let MPs, ministers and candidates know how much the Surf Coast Cultural Centre will mean for our community.
“As well as providing cultural and social enrichment and a better home for our internationally- significant surfing collection it will aid our pandemic recovery and bring lasting economic benefit.
“We encourage community members to share their excitement about the many benefits the centre will bring, and to help let our politicians know how much it matters.”
The shire is currently looking for almost $29 million in funding from the state and federal governments to start the first stage of the project.
The cultural centre will provide a new and larger home for the Australian National Surfing Museum, Torquay Library and Torquay Visitor Information Centre and will integrate with the redeveloped Multi Arts Centre.
Cr Stapleton said once built, it would help drive recovery from the pandemic by supporting the tourism industry, as well providing a hub to showcase the region’s creativity, surfing heritage and First Nations cultural history.
The council has approved concept plans and a business case for a two-stage redevelopment of the centre.
The $36.8 million first stage is expected to begin in 2024 subject to receiving funding commitments.
It will include an expanded surfing museum to showcase its internationally significant collection, expanded library and visitor centre, a café and rehearsal and maker spaces.
The shire has committed $8 million in funding and the site.
Stage two is expected to start in 2030 and cost $20 million. It will include construction of a new 250-seat studio and purpose built gallery with technical and backstage areas for performers.
Cr Stapleton said the completed project would inject an additional $173 million in direct and indirect economic impact in the Great Ocean Road region, supporting more than 750 longer term jobs.
