PRG appointed for Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct

Published on 28 April 2022

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A project Reference Group (PRG) has been formally appointed by Council to help guide design, advocacy and delivery of the proposed Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct. 

The appointed PRG includes members representing key community groups including: 

  • Baw Baw Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Annemarie McCabe
  • Baw Baw Shire Central Ward Cr Danny Goss 
  • Baw Baw Shire Central Ward Cr Joe Gauci
  • Baw Baw Shire Ratepayers & Citizens Association member Jan Pickburn
  • MyLi (West Gippsland Regional Libraries Corporation) CEO Leanne Williams 
  • MyLi (West Gippsland Regional Libraries Corporation) Facilities Manager Jenny Dunn
  • Baw Baw Arts Alliance member Sue Acheson
  • West Gippsland Arts Centre Manager Rowenna Dunn
  • Regional Development Victoria or Victorian Government representative 
  • Baw Baw Shire Council Manager Major Projects Luke McGrath 
  • Baw Baw Shire Council Senior Project Manager (including PRG secretariat) Wayne Hewitt 

Two additional community members will complete the PRG, with a second-round application process now open and welcoming submissions. Applications will close on Thursday 12 May and the final two members will be formally appointed at a future Council meeting. 

The PRG’s role is to provide local insights, contribute to discussions and provide recommendations to Council in the spirit of achieving the best project outcome. Council is seeking to include members of the community to ensure a fair and equitable representation of local voices. 

The PRG will meet on a semi-regular basis to consider and discuss selected and arising topics throughout all stages of the project. This is a great opportunity to be involved in Council’s largest ever single project which will have a positive impact on the community for generations to come. 

The project is the largest in Council’s history valued at $30 million and includes a multi-level facility with new community library with reading/study zones, a gallery and cultural space, community meeting rooms, co-working areas, cafe, rooftop terrace - all with accessible amenities and pedestrian connections to surrounds. The facility aims to address the lack of community facilities and ageing and underutilised community spaces.  

Baw Baw Shire Council has pledged $10 million towards the project - the largest investment in a single project in Council’s history. Advocacy to both State and Federal Governments to secure further funding for the project remains at the forefront of Council’s priorities with efforts ramping up ahead of both upcoming elections.  

To learn more about the project go to www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/CultureandConnectionPrecinct 

Quote attributable to Mayor Cr Michael Leaney 

“It’s great to see this project take another giant step forward with the appointment of PRG members. We’re now in a position to commence critical planning meetings with the architect and design team which will give the project real momentum.” 

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