BEGINNINGS

THE STORY SO FAR

Stage 1 – 2024

  • BPAC has been established as an incorporated association.
  • We have moved in to 501 Neill Street, Soldiers Hill – a former Uniting Church facility with several heritage buildings.
  • We are building our membership base and raising funds for the foundational costs of occupying the site and running the organisation.
  • We will be trialling our bookings system and spaces with meetings and small rehearsals. This will be for user-members only at this stage.
  • We are applying for a place of assembly permit with our local council (the property is currently classed as a place of worship) and seeking the relevant approvals for our intended use.
  • Income will be derived from membership and booking fees, events in other venues and fundraising.

Stage 2 – 2025

  • Our permit is now approved and we will start programming and hosting performances, events, rehearsals and more.
  • Our organisation is growing quickly and all income derived from fundraising, ticket sales and hire of the venues will go towards operational costs and essential building maintenance.
  • We aim to purchase the property as soon as we are able, to ensure we can continue to grow and support the local performing arts community.

Stage 3 – onwards!

  • The vision is to develop a world-class performing arts centre at the Neill St site, with a full calendar of shows and events by local performers and companies, as well as hosting many touring shows.
  • The site will continue to support and develop the Ballarat performing arts community with affordable spaces for creative work and education.
  • The magnificent heritage buildings on the site will be restored and maintained, and will continue their legacy as a community gathering space.