Emerging stars of the performing arts at Werribee will be able to enjoy more modern facilities with a $773,500 upgrade of the Werribee Secondary College performing arts theatre.

Education Minister James Merlino today announced the Andrews Labor Government would invest $723,500 in the project from its Shared Facilities Fund.

With Wyndham City Council also contributing $50,000, the project will mean the college theatre can function as a fully operational small-scale theatre for community use.

The upgrade will include a raised stage, a dedicated space for technicians to operate audio visual equipment, refurbished seating, new lighting equipment, mixer and audio equipment, and cosmetic upgrades to the foyer.

It will be a huge addition to the local community where the only dedicated performing arts venue for community use is the Wyndham Cultural Centre.

The Year 7-12 Werribee Secondary College has an established partnership with the Wyndham Theatre Company which uses the school’s theatre to rehearse.

The upgrade will enable the Theatre Company to establish a long-term position at the College, providing flow-on opportunities for the school and community.

The Labor Government allocated $50 million in the 2016-17 State Budget to develop community facilities on sites across Victoria.

The Shared Facilities Fund supports schools, local councils and other institutions to develop shared facility arrangements that will increase access to local services and participation by the community.

Quotes attributable to the Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Integrated school and community facilities play an important role in bringing together communities such as those at Werribee.”

“Shared projects promote better access to local services and opportunities for people to participate in these as well as fostering a sense of community pride and value in our schools.”