Join the Conversation - Shape the Future of the New Hamilton Gallery

Published on 27 November 2024

Southern Grampians Shire Council invites community members to help shape the design of the New Hamilton Gallery (NHG). Concept design engagement sessions for members of the public will take place on Monday 2 and Tuesday, 3 December 2024.

Internationally renowned architect Angelo Candalepas and Associates has been appointed to undertake stage 1 - concept designs for the New Hamilton Gallery.

Candalepas brings a wealth of expertise and experience and is currently the architect of the National Gallery of Victoria’s new $1.3B contemporary building.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin encouraged community members to come along.

“This is one of the most important stages in developing this nationally significant cultural icon,” said Cr Heslin. “The community will have their voice heard by the project architects and can engage directly with them throughout the sessions and truly make an impact on the design.

“These sessions are not just for those who already use our Gallery, but we also want to hear from those that don’t. What would get you through the doors and making the most out of these facilities? What features of other galleries do you love and what would you like to see introduced here?

“We want you to share your vision and help shape the new Gallery so jump on our website, register for one of our sessions, and leave your mark on the future of the Southern Grampians,” said Cr Heslin.

Registration to attend one of the two community sessions, in person with Angelo Candalepas is now open.

Community co-design workshop details:

Day 1: Monday 2 December 2024, 5:00pm – 7:00pm, Hamilton Cinema

Day 2: Tuesday 3 December 2024, 2:00pm – 3:30pm, Hamilton Cinema

Additional sessions have also been scheduled for industry groups by direct invite.

The focus of these sessions is to hear directly from residents and local business owners about their vision for the New Gallery.

“These co-design engagement sessions will provide our communities the chance to have their say on what that space might look like, how the space will feel, and ultimately work with the architects come up with a space for community to enjoy,” concluded Cr Heslin.

Southern Grampians Shire Council CEO Tony Doyle also urged people’s engagement saying, “This is an intergenerational project that will place the cultural reputation of the Southern Grampian region on a national level, and I strongly encourage the community to take this rare opportunity to have your ideas, thoughts and concepts heard.”

Candalepas and his team were awarded the NHG project after a vigorous and competitive tender process. Council received an impressive number of submissions from some of the most highly regarded architectural firms in Australia. After careful evaluation and consideration, Candalepas and Associates were awarded the contract.

This appointment marks an exciting milestone for the NHG with the primary concept designs due for release in March 2025.

Registrations are required due to limited spaces and can be accessed via the link below, the Gallery's social media sites and/or the Council’s Facebook page and website at Engage Southern Grampians.

New Hamilton Gallery | Engage Southern Grampians