FREE
November 21, 2014
Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369
Issue 58
Full steam ahead after 10 years of planning in Wyong, local dance groups always had to travel to places like Newcastle to perform. “Once The Art House is built, they won’t have to. “Local talent will be able to shine right here, at home. “I encourage everyone to get on board – become a friend of The Art House and spread the word about this amazing facility,” said Mr Horner.
y o n g Council mayor Cr Doug Eaton officially turned the first sod on construction of The Art House on Tuesday, November 18, with council officially awarding the tender to an experienced local operator.
W
North Construction and Building Pty Ltd were successful in the highly competitive tender process as they were able to significantly reduce costs while maintaining the high quality requirements of the design. C o u n c i l ’ s manager Community Partnerships and Planning Ms Julie Vaughan said they had a great track record in building major projects such as the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre, Lakes Grammar School, Impact Centre Coastlife and Merewether Surf House. “We are pleased to have such an experienced builder on board and with
Media release, 17 Nov 2014 Wyong Council media
An artist’s impression of the inside of The Art House
construction now underway The Art House is definitely on track to open by Christmas next year,” said Ms Vaughan. “It’s really exciting. “We have been lobbying, planning and designing for over 10 years and now it is full steam ahead. “All the design aspects remain the same, from the fly tower to 500 seat auditorium, exhibition area and studio to the foyer cafe,” said Ms
We
Vaughan. Mayor Cr Eaton said this was the final step before construction could begin. “I’ve championed this project for 10 years and in less than 400 days it will open,” said mayor Cr Eaton. “This is truly an exciting time for arts in the Shire. “The Art House will be the flagship building for the arts and will not only better accommodate our amazing local groups
but also host touring shows that otherwise would pass us by,” he said. The Art House Ambassador and international dancing star and choreographer, Josh Horner, grew up in Wyong and said he knows firsthand how much local performance groups and the community will benefit from the facility. “I loved performing from a young age and when I was growing up
Total Fire Ban Total Fire Ban has been declared for five regions of NSW including Gosford and Wyong for Friday, November 21, due to forecast hot and windy conditions.
A
No fires may be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended during a Total Fire Ban. Gas and electric barbeques may be used provided certain conditions are met.
Total Fire Ban rules and a map of current Total Fire Ban areas are available at www.rfs. nsw.gov.au. Email, 20 Nov 2014 RFS Media
the Wyong Shire