Greater Shepparton City Council is developing a business case and master plan for the redevelopment of the 20 year old Riverlinks Eastbank venue and is seeking public feedback to ensure it meets the needs of the community into the future.
Eastbank was developed by Council in 2001 to enhance the liveability of Greater Shepparton by presenting a rich and varied program of touring arts and entertainment, enabling residents to experience the same calibre of national and international shows that are available in major cities. The venue also plays a key role in hosting major events, contributing to the social and economic vitality of the region.
Many local businesses and community organisations use Eastbank for a wide variety of performances and functions. Over 50 per cent of activity at the venue is generated by local organisations so it is truly a community facility.
Eastbank attracts about 30,000 attendances each year to performing arts shows and a further 22,000 to business and social events. There were over 280 events of all types and description in 2018.
Greater Shepparton City Council Director Community, Kaye Thomson said “The Business Case and Master Plan are being developed so the facility can be positioned to meet the future needs of clients, customers and community and remain attractive and competitive both locally and nationally.”
”Public needs and expectations have changed since the facility opened in 2001. Council is now seeking input from customers and users of the facility as well as members of the community for the planning phase of the Eastbank Master Plan.”
A public meeting will be held at Eastbank on Monday 15 April, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Eastbank with the aim of identifying current drawbacks at the facility and mapping potential changes and improvements. The planning scope will include the existing Eastbank building and the building that will become vacant when Shepparton Art Museum relocate to a new site.
“Eastbank is a very busy and vibrant facility for our community,” said Ms Thompson. “We need to keep up with customer expectations and have a clear plan for the future so the venue remains a major attraction in the region for many years to come.”
Bookings are not essential to the public meeting but are recommended. Those interested in attending may book online at the Riverlinks website or direct with the box office between 10am and 5pm during weekdays on (03) 5832 9511.
Riverlinks Eastbank, located at 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton is owned and operated by Greater Shepparton City Council, providing performing arts and convention services for the region.
