By Lucy Waldron
After months of anticipation, the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery and Library has officially opened its doors to the public.
The grand opening on August 9 was marked by a plaque unveiling ceremony conducted by Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm, officially signalling the completion of the long-awaited project.
The newly expanded facility boasts a larger, state-of-the-art space, designed to accommodate a wide range of community functions and activities. The expansion also provides additional room for the library’s extensive book collection and the gallery’s impressive array of artworks.
The $7.96 million Stanthorpe Art Gallery and Library Expansion project was made possible by a $2 million grant from the Australian Government, with the remaining funds provided by the Southern Downs Regional Council.
Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery Director Mary Findlay thanked all who had been involved throughout the process for their support and expressed her excitement to begin the plans they have for the space.
Assistant Minister Anthony Chisholm said the new state-of-the-art facility will offer residents the opportunity to discover and learn more about art, while also providing a better home for the library’s $1 million collection of books and the gallery’s $2.5 million art collection.
“The new precinct will also improve literature, arts and cultural experiences for the Stanthorpe community and help secure the town’s status as a cultural hub in the region,” Mr Chisholm said.
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor, Melissa Hamilton, celebrated the opening as a significant milestone for Stanthorpe.
“It was a great day for Stanthorpe’s beloved art gallery and library which hold a very special place in the town’s history and culture,” Cr Hamilton said.
“It is also a wonderful day for our talented artists, literary enthusiasts, dedicated staff and valued volunteers who now have the opportunity to see this dream project come to fruition.
“This rejuvenation project is also more than simply art and literature – it’s about building community spirit, showcasing exceptional local talent and enhancing our region’s liveability to visitors as a must-see arts and cultural destination.”
Federal Member for Maranoa and Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, also praised the expansion, noting its benefits for the broader Southern Downs community.
“Our local libraries are the lifeblood of our communities as they bring us together for a variety of community events and offer local access to a wide array of educational resources,” Mr Littleproud said.
“The Southern Downs has a proud reputation of being a cultural powerhouse and I’m confident this library expansion will only further that reputation.”
Councillor Morwenna Harslett, who oversees the arts portfolio for the Southern Downs Regional Council, emphasised the irreplaceable value of art and literature in society.
“Having this state-of-the-art precinct as a new space to bring us together encourages community cohesion, reduces isolation and provides a contemporary home for us to express our identity and learn about our past, present, and future.
“The new Stanthorpe Art Gallery and Library precinct is a treasured investment for our community, reminding us of the world around us and how we influence each other and impact our environment.”
The Stanthorpe community can now fully enjoy the new and improved Art Gallery and Library, a facility that promises to be a central hub for arts, culture, and learning for years to come.
