Member for Morwell Russell Northe today joined with Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath to officially open the newly upgraded Art Resource Collective (ARC) building in Yinnar.
Mr Northe said the $121,000 project was funded with $80,700 from the Liberal-National Coalition’s $1 billion Regional Growth Fund and the remaining funds from Latrobe City Council.
“ARC Yinnar is an artist-run, not for profit organisation that provides a focus for creative talent in the Latrobe Valley and the Nationals are pleased to be able to support such a worthwhile local organisation,” Mr Northe said
“The building accommodates the ARC Yinnar offices, gallery, ceramics, metalwork, photography, painting and drawing areas, private studios and public access areas for print-making, a retail outlet and a theatrette.”
Mr Northe said funding was used to upgrade the kitchen and existing toilet block and improve security arrangements.
“This project was very important to the community as the building was in dire need of an upgrade to allow better access for people with a disability,” he said
“The works are a major improvement to the building which provides an important outlet for art classes to a variety of community groups.”
Ms Bath said ARC showcased art exhibitions once a month and music events up to six times a year with between 50 and 200 people a week utilising the property depending on the number of classes and events held.
“It really is a great space for our wonderful local artists to come and focus on their creative talents,” Ms Bath said.
“I’d like to commend ARC’s members for their continued work in developing the art centre and making it a centerpiece of the town.”
