FOR years, the Tomaree Cultural Development Group has been fighting for the establishment of a performance centre in Port Stephens, and its efforts have now been recognised by Port Stephens’ Council (PSC).
“Port Stephens is a rare LGA that doesn’t actually have a performance arts centre at the moment,” said Cristopher Bowman, of the Tomaree Cultural Development Group.
“There’s many, many smaller LGAs that have them already.”
During its latest meeting, councillors unanimously approved a motion recognising that investing in an arts and entertainment centre would create economic, employment, and social opportunities, and that such a project was definitely on the cards.
“It’s important to be very, very clear: there’s currently no allocated funds to modify any existing facilities or build a performance centre,” Mayor Leah Anderson said.
“But it’s about time this became officially on council’s agenda.”
The proposed centre would cost around $80 to $100 million, accommodate more than 500 people and provide professional equipment for Australia’s world-class touring companies.
“Bringing the outside world to us would be wonderful,” said Kathie Barnes, the chairperson of the Tomaree Cultural Development Group.
“It would stimulate the currently sleepy night-time economy, fill a gap in the current Port Stephens entertainment scene, and provide dozens of creative groups a home.”
Ms Barnes believes a Port Stephens performance centre could reap hundreds of millions of dollars in long-term benefits.
Cr Chris Doohan suggested the possibility of PSC cooperating with Maitland Council for the establishment of a joint performance centre.
This sentiment appeared well-received by some other councillors, who saw it as an interesting option to deliver the project in a feasible way.
“Something like this would go well in our LGA and in our community,” said Cr Mark Watson.
“It may be five years, maybe 10, maybe 20, but what’s important is it’s there for our community, and it’s there for the future children that are growing into our communities.”
“The future looks bright,” concluded Mayor Anderson. “It might not be tomorrow, but you’ve certainly got my full support.”
By Nico LOMBARDO
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