Acknowledging the worth of Toowoomba’s cultural capital

NOW, I don’t want to be controversial, not yet anyway, but as I understand it, the location of the next Business at Dusk, on February 19, the Empire Theatre has had a long, sometimes highly emotive and interesting past.

So, I will stay right away from how it got to its current magnificent state.

The Empire Theatre is the largest performing arts centre and theatre in regional Australia.

It is, for many, considered the cultural backstop for the entire Toowoomba community.

It is supported by a dedicated group of volunteers and has a foundation that provides performing arts opportunities to further the development of young people.

In my view, it’s an important cog in the city’s cultural capital and landscape.

The Toowoomba Regional Council recognises the contribution of this iconic cultural precinct, with the Empire Theatre at its heart and cultural assets in general.

What I would like to know, which I cannot seem to find anywhere, which could just be me, is, what is the economic impact of this exquisite venue and contribution of all cultural assets in the city and region to the local economy.

The Australian Government in 2018, identified the growing interest in quantifying the economic contribution of cultural assets.

The cultural economy is increasingly recognised as an important component of economic growth.

Between 2008 and 2017 cultural activity in Australia grew by a whopping 30%, an increase of $25.8 billion.

The growing contribution was recognised by the Australian Arts Council in 2015 which reiterated the important contribution the cultural economy plays in the economy.

I think understanding the economic impact of the Empire Theatre and other cultural assets in the city on other small businesses through additional spend in local restaurants, accommodation and the like and job creation in the areas of performing arts, advertising and marketing, in my view, is a critical piece of work that needs to be done.

The chamber would be happy to undertake and lead this work in partnership with cultural institutions, government or others.

I could be wrong, but I think the evidence about the economic impact of the cultural economy in the city and small business, would be overwhelming.

I have not yet fully explored with the Empire Theatre and others the important role the Empire Theatre can play in the renewal of the CBD.

Its connection with the centre of town is critical, but I will leave that view for another day.

See you all the Business at Dusk event on February 19 at the Empire Theatre.

For more information head to www.toowoombachamber.com.au.