Roof replacement works mark the start of FAC’s big year

The final stage of works to replace the roof at Fremantle Arts Centre (FAC) will start in late February.

It will be business as usual for FAC during the works as it prepares for a jampacked program of festivals, events, courses and exhibitions.

Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said it was great to see this well-loved facility spruced up ahead of a big year.

“FAC is one of Australia’s leading arts organisations and we’re truly lucky to have it right here in Freo,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.

“The works will replace the last of the asbestos-clad roofing that was added during a major restoration project in the 1960s and 70s and is now nearing the end of its life.

“The asbestos will be carefully removed to avoid any risk to public health, allowing FAC to continue delivering its exciting program throughout the works.  

The City engaged consultants Hocking Heritage and Architecture to investigate suitable roof replacement options and they recommended heritage galvanised steel due to its superior waterproofing qualities to help enhance and protect the heritage building.

This is the final section of the building to have its roof replaced, with the remainder also having been replaced with heritage galvanised steel.

The original 1860s building featured a timber shingle roof, however shingles were not recommended for the new roof as they are prone to leaks, have a shorter life span and can be damaged in high winds making it unsuitable for a coastal location. 

“The building is an incredible example of gothic-architecture from the 1800s and this new roof will help us preserve it,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.

Other works will also be carried out during the project, including minor repairs to the timber structure and roof battens, reinstatement of a damaged missing copper downpipe, roof anchor points to assist with future works and the installation of sarking and insulation for improved cooling and heating.  

“It’s great to see significant investment by the City into the maintenance of this well-loved heritage building,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.

 FAC is set for an exciting year ahead as it rolls out its program of exhibitions, events and concerts featuring artists from all over the world.   

 “Across February we’re teaming up with Perth Festival for the powerful Other Horizons exhibition, which celebrates First Nations Women and Women of Colour,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.

 FAC will be the backdrop for a number of Perth Festival shows and talks in February, including Seven Sisters by the WA Youth Theatre Company and panel discussions with award-winning authors.

 The Sunday Music Series is also on until 26 March, offering free live music from artists across Australia every Sunday in the beautiful front gardens.

 In May the much-loved Revealed Exhibition and Art Market returns, showcasing works from new and emerging WA Aboriginal artists.

 “The Revealed exhibition and market has become a cornerstone of the WA arts calendar,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.

 “It’s a celebration for artists and communities,and offers an amazing opportunity to purchase original Aboriginal artworks with 100% of the profits from the sales going to the artists.”

 The second half of the year will bring plenty more to enjoy, including annual highlights like the Wardarnji festival and WA’s best Christmas market, Baazar.

 The FAC roof replacement project has been carried out in stages, with sections replaced in 2015 and 2016 and the final stage planned for February 2023.

 The works will take place across 14 weeks with minimal disruptions to Fremantle Arts Centre during this time. The City apologises for any inconvenience caused. 

 Check out what other projects are taking shape around Fremantle this year at fremantle.wa.gov.au/budgethighlights or see what other events and exhibitions are coming up at fac.org.au