The draft design of Queenscliff’s long-awaited $5.75 million Cultural Hub redevelopment has been released for public feedback. 

Created by award-winning architects Kerstin Thompson, the design incorporates the Queenscliff Library, Museum and Visitor Information Centre under one roof. 

The library’s heritage façade is retained, however the two level rear section of the proposed development will include a modern new layout, with public spaces for meetings and lectures. 

“This is a design that reflects feedback from our community, the tenants and incorporates input from our award-winning architects,” said Mayor Ross Ebbels. “We hope residents will let us know what they think of the design for this exciting new community hub.” 

One of the more controversial elements of the design is a new verandah extending beyond the building’s façade and over the Hesse Street footpath.

The Hub, which has been on the Queenscliffe’ Council’s wish list for close to a decade, became a reality when the State Government transferred funding to the project from the now shelved Destination Queenscliffe. 

The Federal Government and BoQ have also contributed funding. Construction is expected to begin in October.
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The design can be found on the BoQ webpage. Community submissions close on Sunday June 7.

Local art galleries are gearing up to play an important role in welcoming visitors back to our towns, with three significant exhibitions launching in coming days.
 
After 10 weeks in lock down, Salt Contemporary is preparing to throw open its doors to a show of new paintings by Craig Parnaby, depicting the simple pleasures of life by the beach. 

“Craig’s paintings capture moments in time that are oh so familiar - a carefree bike ride, catching a wave with a friend, an afternoon spent lazing on a beach,” said Salt Director Fiona Kelly. 

“These are the moments that up until recently we have perhaps taken for granted and yet it is precisely these moments that many of us have found ourselves looking forward to and yearning for. 

“Through their work artists can challenge us to pause and reflect, to see the world a little differently.  Through his art Craig Parnaby creates a world that is calm, gentle and uncomplicated and there’s never been a better time to strive for such a world,” Kelly said.

Similarly, important themes for this time will be celebrated at Queenscliff Gallery and Workshop, in an exhibition of works - sculptures, drawings, prints and lithography - by good friends of many decades, Robert Hague, Peter Lancaster, Jim Pavlidis and Geoffrey Riccardo celebrating mateship. 

“The four men’s friendship and artistic expression are forged in continuity,” said the QG&W’s Soula Mantalvanos. “Their homes, studio environments and materials are testimony to timelessness and resilience - a bulwark against the advances of technology… and proof that living and working without succumbing to unnecessary change is still possible. 

Meantime, a new-look Seaview will turn to some of its favourite artists to brighten the spirits of locals and visitors alike. 
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“We have refurbished with new carpet and some paintwork and are looking forward to being open again,” said owner Colleen Kenwood.

Authorities have been urged to further investigate Queenscliffe’s beach erosion hot spots, after a damaging month of high tides and strong winds. 

Narrows Beach was hardest hit through May, with a barrage of large waves breaking the protective timber fence,  hastening the collapse of sand dunes and dislodging nearby timber beach access stairs. 

The Queenscliff front beach was also noticeably battered, with big swells carving a two-metre sand cliff along the high tide mark between the ferry terminal and pier. 

“Part of what we value most about living in the Borough is its spectacular coastline and welcoming beaches. Council is focused on preserving that environment for the benefit of many generations to come,” said Queenscliffe Mayor Cr Ross Ebbels. 
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“When dealing with acts of nature such as these increased tides, we’re always looking with one eye to the future. This means ensuring repaired the damage, says it has asked the Department of the Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and Parks Victoria to assess the erosion. 
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