A new landmark is taking shape in the heart of Traralgon – and it’s unlike anything else in the Latrobe Valley.
The steel frame of a 25-metre fly tower has risen near Church Street at the site of the Latrobe Creative Precinct.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester and Latrobe City Council Mayor Dan Clancey recently visited to see how construction was progressing.
Mr Chester said the fly tower would increase the versatility of the theatre to accommodate a greater variety of professional performances.
“A fly tower is used to ‘fly’ or hoist scenery up and down onto the stage for quick transitions. It can also be used to get performers on and off stage and house additional lighting,” Mr Chester said.
“The tower will provide great flexibility in how the theatre can be used and help ensure the Latrobe Valley is home to one of the best performance facilities in regional Australia.
“Not only will this be of great benefit to local performers, but also attract more professional companies and productions to Gippsland.”
Latrobe City Council Mayor Dan Clancey said the precinct would enhance the Latrobe City’s reputation as a regional arts and culture hub.
“Having a state-of-the-art facility in the Latrobe City will allow more performances and cultural events to take place,” Cr Clancey said.
“We have a vibrant arts community and this will provide them access to an exceptional facility.
“Seeing the installation of the fly tower is an exciting step for many who have advocated for the new precinct for many years.”
Mr Chester said work would next shift onto the 750-seat auditorium and back-of-house area.
“The construction site is full of activity and we will continue to see the theatre, outdoor event spaces and other features take shape over the coming weeks and months,” Mr Chester said.
“It is great to see a project employing many local contractors, tradies and supplies from right across our region, including Australian Sustainable Hardwoods at Heyfield which is currently creating prototypes for the tree structures that will be a stunning feature in the foyer.
“Major projects like this one which improve community infrastructure, support local jobs and the economy not only during the construction stage, but into the future as well.”
The Federal Government and the State Government are both contributing $10 million towards the $38.5 million project. Latrobe City Council is providing $18.5 million.
