An arts invasion

Proposal for Fort Queenscliff

THEREis a push to establish a major cultural centre and arts precinct within soon-to-bevacated Fort Queenscliff.

Spearheading the push is the town’s business and tourism association, the local RSL and Bellarine Tourism.

S p o k e s m a n Graham Christie said the site would be partially occupied by a civilian-run military records office when the army left later this year.

‘‘It will use only about 25 per cent of the existing space within the fort,’’ he said.

‘‘Our plan is that the remainder of the fort becomes a national cultural and arts precinct.’’

He said the grounds would make the perfect setting for staging opera, classical concerts and theatrical productions.

‘‘I envisage the likes of the M e l b o u r n e Symphony Orchestra and Opera Australia coming here to perform,’’ he said.

Mr Christie said the precinct would give a much needed economic boost to the town and the region.

‘‘I can foresee people from throughout the state, the nation and the world coming here to see world class performances in this world class setting,’’ he said.

‘‘The profits from the productions could be ploughed back into maintaining the historic military base.’’

Mr Christie said he was dealing directly with federal Attorney- General Nicola Roxon in his efforts to have the fort’s status changed.

‘‘Eventually, we would need to have a memorandum of understanding drawn up,’’ he said.

‘ ‘ I t would i nvolve the Borough of Queenscliffe and the Federal Government and spell out the operation and use of the area.’’

Among those lending support to the proposal is Liberal candidate for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson.

‘‘I think it is a fantastic idea and am happy to assist where I can,’’ she said.

‘‘It will be very sad to see the army leave but this plan represents a great idea for the future.’’

Ms Henderson said she would lobby on behalf of the proposal and take the idea to Defence Minister Stephen Smith and federal Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson.