By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
LEADING Geelong businessman Robert Costa has vowed to keep driving a Geelong Performing Arts Centre funding campaign right up to state election eve next month.
Mr Costa is leading the charge on seeking State Government priority commitment to the redevelopment.
He has funded a car sticker campaign, even plastering the highly visible yellow decals on his classy Bentley.
Mr Costa is a GPAC board director but said he was running the campaign for the $140 million staged redevelopment as a private citizen.
“Labor has previously committed to funding the $30 million first stage. However, a strong commitment to the full project is needed from both parties,” Mr Costa said.
“We have a thriving arts and culture industry in Geelong but the city’s major cultural asset is ageing and desperately in need of major works to bring it up to current standards.
“A redeveloped GPAC will mean better facilities, more performances, greater community use of the spaces and increased visitors to the region. It will also resolve concerns around disability access, safety and compliance.”
Mr Costa said investment in Geelong’s cultural infrastructure would have much-needed immediate economic benefits for the region, including creation of up to 1300 jobs during construction and beyond as well as an estimated $40.2 million annual contribution to the local economy.
He urged other Geelong residents to show their support through his Facebook page, Robert Costa – support GPAC renewal, and by contacting local MPs.
The redevelopment faces competition for funding from other Geelong projects, including plans to further upgrade Simonds Stadium and a proposal for a new Yarra Street Pier.
