Help us re-open The Wesley
Published on 12 April 2024
Custodians of the Wesley Performing Arts Centre are working to re-open the beloved Roberts Avenue building with the help of public fundraising.
The campaign aims to raise $2 million to fully restore the Wesley building and give it a refreshed purpose as a niche performing arts space.
The planned upgrades include a flat floor all the way through the whole venue from street front to back of house, removing access and mobility issues.
The main auditorium would have options for various set ups and include removable seating.
Wesley Committee President Mary Starr said the group had been working with Council over the past few years to determine demand, including upgrades to improve the building’s access and functionality.
“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,” Ms Starr 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,” she said.
Council previously matched the Wesley Committee’s cash contribution to the project of $225,000 enabling the Committee to kick off a fundraising campaign with $450,000.
From 24 April, the Wesley Committee will seek to raise an additional $550,000 from community donations and contributions from corporate and philanthropic entities.
This will allow the Committee to seek a dollar-for-dollar government grant to reach the final target of $2 million.
The Wesley Committee is a non-profit group with deductible gift recipient and tax concession charity status, allowing contributions to be classified as tax deductible.
From 24 April 2024, donations will be accepted at Horsham Town Hall seven days a week in cash, cheque, card or electronic funds transfer.
For more information about the Re-Open Wesley campaign visit hrcc.vic.gov.au/reopen-wesley