The Barossa Council in South Australia is exploring the feasibility of a new cultural hub to act as a major tourism driver for the region.
The proposed hub would be based around the existing Barossa Regional Gallery at Tanunda.
The initiative is part of Council’s ‘The Big Project’, which aims to determine the community infrastructure necessary for the Barossa region over the next 30 years.
Council is working with community stakeholders to identify the economic and cultural benefits a dedicated cultural hub would bring to the region.
Council’s Community Project Director, Joanne Thomas, said preliminary work showed strong potential.
“Our vision is for a facility that brings together heritage, art and music in a contemporary space and offers a range of opportunities to enjoy an authentic cultural experience,” she said.
“The idea is not to replace the work and multiple venues we already have in our region, but to identify gaps and use a future facility as a true hub and central reference point for cultural activities that are available so more people can enjoy them.”
The project will be underpinned by extensive community consultation as well as input from stakeholders who represent culture and the arts, tourism and regional development.
“We will be drawing on the knowledge of key stakeholders who have passion and understanding of this sector, as well as examples of best practice in South Australia and beyond,” Ms Thomas said.
“We know the Barossa Story is rich and inspiring, and we want to maximise these assets for the benefit of our local community, the regional economy and the thousands of visitors who come to the Barossa every year.”
A working party has begun discussions to help inform the development of a brief and project proposal.
