Bundaberg Regional Council is inviting the community to step inside the newly transformed Wintergarden Forum during a special open day next month.
The building, a cherished part of Bundaberg’s history, has undergone an approximate $7.5 million refurbishment that integrates modern design with its historic architecture, offering a versatile space for the community.
Designed by local architect Tomas O’Malley, the Wintergarden Forum now boasts a variety of functional spaces, including an exposed hardwood feature ceiling, original brick walls, and refinished floors.
Bundaberg business Murchie Constructions has revitalised the building’s character while incorporating feature lighting and modern amenities, ensuring it meets contemporary standards while celebrating its heritage.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the community could look forward to viewing the refurbishment at the space on Maryborough Street as part of the upcoming open day in October.
“The Wintergarden building has always been a significant part of Bundaberg’s story, and this transformation makes it ready to serve our community in new ways,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“There have been many questions from the community about this project, so I’m pleased to be able to be open and transparent with locals and reveal the full project cost and invite everyone to join us for an open day on Saturday 19 October from 9 am until noon.”
The Wintergarden Forum refurbishment project received $1.6 million in funding from the Australian Government under the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.
Federal Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt MP said he was pleased to see the completed project.
“Wintergarden Forum is a great asset for the community, and I’m proud to have helped secure funding for the refurbishment,” Mr Pitt said.
“It’s a great example of different levels of government working together and I’m looking forward to coming along to the open day to celebrate the reopening of this historical building with the community.”
While leasing negotiations are still underway, Mayor Blackburn said the open day would ensure everyone in the community could come along to see the building’s new look.
“It’s vital that we use this space to its full potential, whether for local businesses, community events, or creative ventures,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“It’s a space designed for flexibility, and I encourage everyone to come and see what it has to offer.”
Once called the Wintergarden Theatre, the refurbishment showcases history in its unique design features, from visible brick walls on the ground floor to an ornate ceiling and original decorative mouldings on level 1.
The building’s layout includes flexible spaces suited to future tenants, a potential commercial kitchen with a street-facing servery, office areas, and a large presentation hall equipped with audiovisual technology.
Council encourages all residents to explore the Wintergarden Forum’s makeover at an open day on Saturday, 19 October, from 9 am to noon.
Related stories: Construction work peels back Wintergarden history
A couple of us were talking about the dropping of jaffas from the balcony just to hear the bounce sounds and then the rolling rattle all the way down. The usher would then show up trying to find out who done it!