The Wangaratta Creative Precinct seeks funding

Published on 13 August 2024

The Rural City of Wangaratta is thrilled to announce the completion of the Detailed Design for the Wangaratta Creative Precinct. The Detailed Design reimagines the co-development of the Wangaratta Art Gallery, Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre, and the Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre, creating a holistic, vibrant, and connected cultural precinct within the central business district of Wangaratta. This significant milestone enables the project to move to the next stage and Council will now actively explore funding opportunities to bring the vision to life.

In June 2023, Council awarded the Wangaratta Creative Precinct Detailed Design contract to Sibling Architecture with funding support from the Victorian Government’s Enabling Tourism Fund. The result is a striking, contemporary, community-led design that draws inspiration from the Wangaratta textile story, the converging of the rivers, and the site’s existing heritage architecture. It addresses constraints such as retaining the elm tree and upgrading essential infrastructure services to meet future needs.

The completed Detailed Design supplies construction documentation, material specifications, 3D renders and costings for the future development of the Wangaratta Creative Precinct. The planning permit for the project has been submitted and Council is now actively seeking funding support from state and federal government bodies, private donors, and enterprises.

Dean Rees, Mayor Rural City of Wangaratta:

“This is a pivotal moment for our city's cultural landscape. Having a state-of-the-art facility will enhance Wangaratta’s cultural tourism and economic vitality through the arts, becoming the heart of the city.

The Wangaratta Creative Precinct will require generous funding and sponsorship which is beyond current Council resources. With detailed plans now in place, we are ready to seek financial support and funding opportunities to bring this project to life.’’

Brendan McGrath, Chief Executive Officer Rural City of Wangaratta:

"The Wangaratta Creative Precinct will greatly enhance our city’s liveability and the quality of life for our residents, while also addressing accessibility issues with our current facilities. By creating a vibrant cultural hub, we are setting the stage for tremendous community benefits and future growth."

Additional Information

For more information on the project, including the Detailed Design flipbook, visit:

https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/creativeprecinct