The Governor of Victoria made her first official visit to Geelong Arts Centre last week to see the region’s cultural, community and economic impacts.
Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC went on a special tour of the centre on April 3, which included a visit to the Ryrie Street-facing church redevelopment construction site.
Professor Gardner said Geelong Arts Centre had cemented its place as the country’s biggest regional arts centre and was the creative heart of the region.
“It was a pleasure to tour the centre, which is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a vital and deserved cultural asset for Geelong and the broader region,” she said
“With more than 40 years of creative expression, the Geelong Arts Centre has a proud history of delivering music, theatre and performances for regional Victorians.”
Geelong Arts Centre chief executive and creative director Rhys Holden said he was thrilled to show the governor the centre.
“What a wonderful opportunity to share our rich history and the vital role Geelong Arts Centre plays as a regional cultural leader, serving local communities and supporting emerging artists to thrive,” he said.
Geelong Performing Arts Trust chair Lesley Alway said the governor was also treated to a tour of state-of-the-art studio spaces that supported the centre’s Creative Engine initiative.
“We are honoured to welcome Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, to Geelong Arts Centre on her first official visit to the region,” she said.
