Concept art of the new Orange Regional Conservatorium and Planetarium. Image: Orange City Council.
Construction work on the new Regional Conservatorium and Planetarium project in the NSW Central West city of Orange officially began on 27 January.
The $33.5 million project is being jointly funded, with $10m from the Australian Government, $5m from the NSW Government’s Creative Capital Funding program and up to $18.5m from Orange City Council.
The building has been designed by Ian Brewster of Brewster Hjorth Architects and will be located behind the Civic precinct on the corner of March and Peisley streets, adjacent to the Orange Regional Gallery, Museum, Library and Civic Theatre. The current Conservatorium of Music, in Hill Street, is at capacity.
The new building will include a 275-seat auditorium, a 65-seat planetarium auditorium, 40 practice studios and rehearsal spaces, front and back-of-house facilities including a main lobby, bar and kitchen, office space, amenities and ancillary spaces.
At the peak of construction, it is expected up to 60 people will be working on the site, with the project expected to be completed by early 2026.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who attended the soil-turning ceremony, said all Australians, regardless of where they lived, should have the opportunity to enjoy music, theatre and other performing arts.
“Our investment in the new Orange Regional Conservatorium and Planetarium will deliver a world-class cultural hub for the region,” he said.
“While I don’t play an instrument, I understand the power of music to bring us together and to lift us up. It helps us feel the highs, and it helps us make sense of the lows.
“And I know just how much an education in music can expand and enhance the mind and make you a more creative and flexible thinker, whether you’re a child or your childhood’s a little bit behind you.
”The conservatorium is currently teaching 1400 students, ranging in age from young children to local residents in their 80s. But you’re definitely ready for a new home with a bit more space.
“And in a great example of aiming high, there will also be a 65-seat planetarium. It’s a perfect fit for Orange, which is on the astronomical highway to both Parkes – home of the famous radio telescope – and Siding Springs near Coonabarabran.”
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King added: “This development is a real win for the people of Orange and the Central West. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy concerts and presentations in state-of-the-art surrounds.”
Orange Mayor Jason Hamling said he was delighted to see the work get underway and the jobs flowing into the community.
“The construction company will source 80 per cent of contractors from the Orange area, with only specialist trades coming from out of town,” he said.
