Seating refurbishment project underway for Hamilton Performing Arts Centre

Southern Grampians Shire has advised that the seating refurbishment project for the Hamilton Performing Arts Centre (HPAC) is underway to improve wheelchair access and increase aisle row seating.

During the seating update, the Handbury Auditorium will be closed to public until project completion at the end of May 2023. Painting and new flooring will also be installed during this closure period.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor David Robertson noted “It’s exciting to see this project progress to implementation and see the seating finally receive a much-needed upgrade which has not occurred in the past three decades.

“Seating is now being removed and we will see the new installation commence over the coming month just in time for some big name shows including Ross Noble on 1st June.

“These refurbishment works will not impact on the ticket box or the public toilets at the front of the building, with access remaining open to residents during this time. The auditorium and function room will, however, not be accessible to general public.

“This work will go a long way in supporting our performing arts and culture scene in the Southern Grampians by improving wheelchair access, providing accessible theatre seats, flexibility with a partially removable first row, and increase aisle row seating.

The new seating project has been jointly funded with Council allocating $120,000, and Creative Victoria’s Creative Neighbourhoods Infrastructure Support Program committing $150,000.