A public fundraising campaign with an aim of $550,000 to help restore Horsham’s Wesley Performing Arts and Cultural Centre will officially launch on Wednesday next week.

The building in Roberts Avenue needs a full restoration, which requires an upgrade costing an estimated $2 million.

The Wesley committee and Horsham Rural City Council have contributed $450,000 to the upgrade, and a further $550,000 from the public and corporate and philanthropic entities will allow the custodians to apply for a matching government contribution.

To be named The Wesley, the building will be upgraded to include a flat floor throughout the entire venue from street front to back-of-house, removing access and mobility issues. 

The main auditorium will have options for various set ups and include removable seating. 

Wesley committee president Mary Starr said the group had worked with council throughout the past few years to determine demand. 

“The changes will allow The Wesley to cater for smaller scale events that don’t suit or fit the Horsham Town Hall venue, such as forums, funerals, recitals, workshops and civil ceremonies,” she said. 

“Post completion of works, the venue will be programmed and operated by the experienced team at the Horsham Town Hall, with ownership transferred to Horsham Rural City Council, which is the desire of the committee.”

Ms Starr said the fundraising campaign, planned for May to August, would allow the committee to reopen a ‘valuable and historic asset’.

The new Wesley would offer a different price point and hire rates for local activities, compared to Horsham Town Hall.

The performing arts space, a former church, closed in 2017 due to fire-safety issues.

The Wesley Committee is a non-profit group with deductible gift recipient and donations more than $2 are tax deductible.

From next Wednesday, April 24, donations will be accepted at Horsham Town Hall box office, in cash, cheque, card or electronic funds transfer. 

Donations can also be made via electronic funds to Wesley Performing Arts, BSB: 033 629; account number 362 747, and people requiring a receipt can contact the committee via email TheWesleyHorsham@gmail.com.

For more information about the Re-Open Wesley campaign, people can visit hrcc.vic.gov.au/reopen-wesley.

The entire April 17, 2024 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!