Finish Line Approaching for WGAC Redevelopment

Published on 25 June 2018

The finish line is approaching at the West Gippsland Arts Centre Redevelopment Project with all major internal structure works complete and the focus shifting towards fit-out and finishing works.

Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Councillor Joe Gauci said while there was still a lot of work to be done, the program was on track for practical completion in August and handover to Council in September.

“The project is really starting to take shape now with all internal concreting finished, installation of the fly tower structural steel and completion of the level four roof. There is also steady progress on finishing works such as plaster and painting in the lower lobbies and auditorium”, said the Mayor.

“Next stages include theatre works, further finishing works such as joinery, fit-outs, painting and landscaping around the new forecourt area.

“Once the physical works wrap up in August, the building will undergo testing, configuration, commissioning and cleaning before contractors hand the keys back to us - a moment we’re all really looking forward to!”

With the redevelopment project nearing the final stages, there is a better understanding of how the overall project budget is tracking.

“As has been reported, throughout the construction period a number of previously unidentified latent issues were discovered. For example, additional fire protection works were required outside of the original scope and the existing internal stairways required modification. Disappointingly, this has resulted in additional costs in the order of up to $750,000. Council is working very closely with the builder, Building Engineering, to understand the detailed costs associated with these changes and to minimise the overall project expenditure, ” said the Mayor.

“We’re now looking ahead to the much-anticipated completion, handover and reopening of the beloved Arts Centre. Some of the big acts that are scheduled to appear when doors reopen include Australian country music legend James Blundell, The McClymonts, ABBA-solutely Fabulous, comedian Kitty Flanagan and even Arj Barker! We’re so excited to bring in these acts to show off the new WGAC stage and can’t wait to see what else is in store.”

Planning is underway for reopening celebrations with details to be announced in the coming weeks.

Image: Construction progress on the new extended cafe area and new upper lobbies.

Image: The new balcony taking shape, with finishing works and seating soon to be installed.

Image: Progress on the redeveloped loading dock, nearing its finishing stages.

Image: Lower-level office spaces beginning to take shape.