Official Opening – Stage One, Burnie Arts

Published on 22 October 2024

The $7.5m Stage One Redevelopment of the Burnie Cultural Precinct was officially opened by the Hon Catherine King MP, Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, at a ceremony held at Burnie Arts Town Hall on 22 October 2024.

Construction of the project commenced in April 2023 with the majority of the works completed in 2023.  The project was made possible with $5 million in funding from a Federal Government Community Development Grant along with $2.5 million from Burnie City Council.

Minister Catherine King, speaking at the Official Opening of the Stage One redevelopment, said: “It’s fantastic to be here today to see the incredible transformation taking place at the new Burnie Cultural Precinct, with the arts and function centre now refurbished.

“This is yet another demonstration of the Albanese Government’s unwavering commitment to investing in our regions to create jobs, build opportunity and unlock economic growth and productivity.

“We’re delivering for the people of Tasmania, investing in community infrastructure that fosters social cohesion and strengthens local communities.”

Mayor Teeny Brumby, who hosted the opening event, said: “This first stage of the redevelopment, which we celebrate today, has already breathed new life into the Burnie Arts centre. This redevelopment doesn’t just create a venue; it creates an environment where arts and culture can thrive, where our community can gather, and where the next generation of makers can be inspired.”

Cr Chris Lynch, Cr David Pease and Cr Justin Grave also attended the Official Opening. 

Senator for Tasmania Anne Urquhart, who participated in the ribbon cutting yesterday, said: “Ensuring people living on the North West Coast have access to world-class cultural precincts is of great importance to the Albanese Labor Government, and I am pleased to be here today for the opening of new parts of the Burnie Cultural Precinct.

“This cultural precinct will ensure Burnie, and Braddon, remain a great place to live, work, visit and do business.  

“The new integrated precinct will support a better visitor experience and provide welcoming public spaces that can be used for events and co-creation.

“This will draw in more visitors and business activity to the Burnie CBD to provide a real boost to our economy,” Senator Urquhart said.

Stage One includes the redevelopment of internal spaces including a multi-functional space, known as the Long Room, which includes a reception and front-of-house facilities and an exhibition areas that integrate pieces from the art and museum collection.

Additions to the building consist of the design and construction of a revitalised main entry and café.

Additional work to the Town Hall includes stage rigging and lighting, balcony upgrades and redevelopment of the bar area. The external cladding is zinc standing seam which has a has a lifespan of 80-100 years and is a fully recyclable product.

Stage Two of the building work is currently underway with completion expected early 2025.

Stage Two is made possible due to $13 million funding from the Federal Government. The building work is expected to cost $11 million with remaining funds to support the further design and development of the Burnie Cultural Precinct.