By NOEL MURPHY
OSBORNE Park, left in limbo for two decades, would become a major arts and cultural centre under latest plans gathering dust at City Hall.
Earmarked for sale in a report commissioned by former mayor Keith Fagg that controversially painted City Hall’s finances red, the historic North Geelong 1858 mansion and surrounds could host a facility similar to Melbourne’s Abbotsford Convent.
Artists in residence, exhibitions, events, markets, arts bodies, cafes and more could all be incorporated under the proposal, dubbed Os Artz.
But for the past year the proposal has gone nowhwere due to red tape, like other plans for the historic site.
These include use as a pastoralist homestead, naval academy and submarine base, an army base, State premier’s residence and guest house.
Osborne Park Association’s Cheryl Scott said City Hall had failed to capitalise on the site’s potential.
The association lodged the Os Artz proposal over a year ago, she said.
“It’s not meant to be a neighbourhood house but more an artisans’ workspace with the ability to showcase and exhibit not only their creative pursuits but also specific exhibitions depicting the history and heritage of Geelong. We’re not seeking to create a museum.
“The proposal has done the rounds of various council departments and the CEO and is considered, apparently, not likely to receive a favourable response if presented to the full council.
“More options are being considered and it may yet again go out for expressions of interest.
“If our proposal was supported by council, however, we could apply for government, arts and heritage grants — which we cannot do currently,” she said.
Ms Scott said council had to “think bigger” about Osborne Park but stressed it must remain a community asset.
The property hosts a range of activities under the association’s auspices, including markets, exhibitions, events and meetings.
The site also hosts groups such as Geelong Historical Society, servicemen associations, model and engineering bodies.
Ms Scott said the main buildings had minimal maintenance over the past 20 years, with the interior exactly as it was when the former Shire of Corio vacated after council amalgamation in the 1990s.
Previous plans have included an extensive maritime historic village with links to Geelong’s waterfront.
