July 21,2015
Demolition work is now underway at the Port of Sale Cultural Precinct to make way for the new Port of Sale Cultural Hub.
The $20.7 million redevelopment was made possible because of a partnership between the Australian Government, the Victorian Government, the Wellington Shire Council and the John Leslie Foundation.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the Australian Government provided $4.5 million in funding towards the project under the National Stronger Regions Fund.
“The Australian Government is underpinning long-term economic growth across Australia through the Fund, which will allocate $1 billion over five years to priority community infrastructure works like the new Port of Sale Cultural Hub,” Mr Truss said.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the project would create a significant number of new jobs.
“The new cultural precinct is a major investment in the future of Sale and the wider Gippsland community. In addition to the 28 new jobs created during the construction phase of this project, the new precinct will generate 17 ongoing operational positions in the region,” Mr Chester said.
Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford said the Victorian Government had provided $4.75 million towards the project.
“The new cultural hub will revitalise the Port of Sale, transforming it into a focal point for the community by incorporating the Gippsland Art Gallery, Sale Public Library, Wellington Visitor Information Centre, Council Chambers and a café,” Ms Pulford said.
“Through our $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund the Andrews Labor Government is committed to supporting projects like the Port of Sale redevelopment that bring jobs, growth and investment to our regional cities.”
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Carolyn Crossley said the new complex will boost the region’s cultural credentials.
“Local residents and visitors will really appreciate the new gallery, which will include additional climate controlled exhibition space so notable national and international art collections can go on display,” Cr Crossley said.
The project was jointly funded with the Australian Government contributing $4.5 million, the Victorian Government $4.75 million, Wellington Shire Council $2.95 million and the John Leslie Foundation $1.5 million.
CAPTION: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, Wellington Shire Mayor Cr Carolyn Crossley, State Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford, and Gippsland Art Gallery Patron John Leslie OBE at the start of demolition works to make way for the new Sale Cultural Precinct.
