15 August 2010
Peter Garrett
Federal Member for Kingsford Smith
Minister for Environment Protection, Heritage and the Arts
Cath Bowtell
Labor Candidate for Melbourne
Minister for Environment Protection, Heritage and the Arts, Peter Garrett, and Labor Candidate for Melbourne, Cath Bowtell, today welcomed the completion of the Melbourne Athenaeum refurbishment, which received funding under the Federal Government’s Jobs Fund.
“I’m delighted to announce the successful completion of work at the Melbourne Athenaeum, which includes upgrades and repairs to the foyer and theatre, funded under the Federal Government’s Jobs Fund,” Peter Garrett said.
“The Athenaeum refurbishment formed part of the Government’s $650 million Jobs Fund, which included $60 million for projects relating to Australia's historic, Indigenous and natural heritage places.
“This $60 million fund was the single largest investment ever made in Australian heritage conservation, supporting 2,750 jobs around the country.
“It recognises the crucial role that heritage conservation can and does play in stimulating the economic health of local communities across the nation.”
Labor Candidate for Melbourne, Cath Bowtell, acknowledged the positive economic and heritage outcomes this funding had provided for the local community.
“The Athenaeum holds a special place in the lives of many Melburnians and has made an incredible contribution to Melbourne’s rich cultural life,” Cath Bowtell said.
“This refurbishment will ensure we can continue to be proud of this beautiful heritage asset and enjoy the benefits of a new orchestra pit as well as new theatre seats and carpets.
“Importantly, the project supported local jobs for tradespeople, technicians and other specialists, helping keep Australia out of recession.”
The Athenaeum, one of Melbourne's oldest buildings, is an example of architecture associated with the Mechanics Institute movement that played a significant role in developing cities in Britain and Australia in the nineteenth century.
The works include repair and upgrade to a 1930s lift, the orchestra pit and other facilities.
In November 2009, the Melbourne Athenaeum celebrated its 170th anniversary as a cultural institution with its various uses including the location of a museum, theatre, film, library and gallery facilities.
The $877,000 in funding for this completed project was provided for in the Budget under the Federal Government’s Jobs Fund.
COMMUNICATIONS UNIT: Phone: (02) 9384 2220 | Fax: (02) 9264 2213 www.alp.org.au
AUTHORISED N.MARTIN for the ALP, 5/9 Sydney Ave. Barton ACT.