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A $3.7 million upgrade of the Ararat Arts Centre Precinct aims to formally establish the Ararat Town Hall as a regionally significant arts precinct and secure the long term tenancy and viability of the Ararat Performing Arts Centre (APAC) and the Ararat Regional Art Gallery (ARAG).

The securing of the Town Hall as a major arts precinct aims to transform Ararat by establishing a cultural tourism destination offering major art exhibitions and performances and attracting conferences and events to the region.

Built in 1898, Ararat Town Hall is one of western Victoria's grandest public buildings and its transformation will achieve long-term economic and cultural development benefits through improving its amenity and access while strengthening the co-location of Ararat Rural city Council’s APAC and ARAG cultural services.

Theupgrade will add more exhibition, storage and performing spaces to the location. As well creating an improved art centre inside, the project also includes a number of improvements to the precinct's appearance including a new facade, foyer and entry, redeveloped toilets, box office and car parking as well as cafe services.

Heritage Architect Ian Coleman has prepared schematic designs sympathetic to the existing heritage-listed Town Hall, while providing modern spaces to ensure the future of the arts precinct.

The project will maximise Council's long term investment in the arts, culture and tourism, enhance the visitor experience offered by both facilities and enable the gallery to present its nationally important textile art collection and major exhibitions.

Commenting on the project, Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford stated “when complete, the gallery can permanently display its entire collection of textile and fibre art, which is one of the largest and most extensive in Australia.”

Known for its arts scene, the Ararat community is looking forward to the project with the hope that the upgraded location promotes tourism to the town.

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17th November 2012 - BEST OF AUSTRALIAN ART TO TOUR THE COUNTRY

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