Civic Centre Officially Launches

The Cowra Civic Centre’s new operating model that has brought it much success over the last two years was officially launched last night at a ceremony and show at the venue.

While the Civic Centre has been running in its current format over the last two years, COVID-19 related restrictions have prevented it from operating consistently and formally launching with a community gathering.

The launch was open to the community and featured major contributors to the upgraded venue, as well as covering the journey so far, the successes to date, and future goals of the venue.

Theatre performance ‘Stardust + The Mission’ was screened to conclude the event.

Before 2020 the Civic Centre was only available to hire on an ad-hoc basis, and no regular programming.

Since late 2019 the Civic Centre, owned by Cowra Shire Council, has received around $750,000 in state and federal government grant funding to receive upgrades to allow it to operate as a professional entertainment venue.

This has allowed the venue to host regular programming, including screening cinema movies and live theatre performances, while continuing to use the main auditorium for in-person shows and events.

Upgrades have included the purchase of new sound, lighting, audio-visual and cinema equipment at the venue.

Civic Centre Manager Jonathan Llewellyn said the objective was to increase the use of the Council asset and increase community participation.

“Being able to screen new release films at the Civic Centre has been a game changer for the community after the last cinema closed more than 15 years ago,” he said.

“Cowra Civic Centre has managed to present a mix of live theatre, music, dance and comedy events from around Australia and overseas.”

The Civic Centre is set to receive further upgrades soon, including installation of a Hearing Aid Loop, automatic entrance and toilet doors, fitting of retractable raked seating in the upstairs 88-seat theatrette and re-carpeting throughout.

• Topics:
• Grant / Funding
• Music and Entertainment
• Living and Lifestyle