Godinymayin Arts Trail Design Complete—Tender Now Open!

Construction Tender Released for Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre’s New Amphitheatre and Upgraded Facilities

We are pleased to announce the final design completion for our capital works and expansion project, funded by the Territory Labor Government’s $5.5 million Arts Trail grant. The Construction Tender is now open to help build the future of Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre.

The expanded facilities, designed by Troppo Architects in Darwin—in consultation with the GYRACC Board, team, and stakeholders—will feature an outdoor amphitheatre, a new office annex, and wonderful new deck, cafe, and retail shop spaces. The construction tender closes on 25 July and it is anticipated that works will be completed by April 2023, in time for the next dry season.

GYRACC Chair Robert Friel said he was excited that the construction tender works had been released: “The Board and staff have worked hard with Troppo Architects and the project team to develop the designs for the upgrades and to achieve our vision for a dynamic centre and gathering place. The Northern Territory Government Arts Trail investment and upgrades will support our vision to showcase and nurture the creative and cultural diversity of the Big Rivers region, as an arts and cultural oasis and meeting place for the community, creative people, visitors and industry.”

Key features of the capital works include a 500-seat outdoor amphitheatre and park-like landscaping; dramatic architectural features and new entry areas featuring an expansive and welcoming outdoor deck with cafe service; an expanded retail shop (more than three times the size of the current space); and a larger, new administrative office off the main foyer.

Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Chansey Paech said the completion of the design and the release of the construction tender was a significant milestone for this important project. “I acknowledge the hard work and expertise of the Centre’s Board members, staff and project working group in planning and contributing to the design prepared by Troppo Architects. Combined with the new Mimi Aboriginal Art and Craft Gallery, I have no doubt that once the Centre’s upgrade is complete, Katherine will be considered a premier destination in the Northern Territory for visitors seeking a unique cultural experience.”

The design phase has been over a year in the making, guided by consultation with the Godinymayin board, staff and stakeholders. The Katherine project follows a major investment in Mimi Arts that was completed a few months ago and is part of the $30 million Arts Trail Gallery Extension Program—providing significant upgrades to several community owned arts and cultural centres across Katherine, Tennant Creek and Arnhem Land.

“We are currently welcoming hundreds of visitors each day to the centre—sharing our region’s creative and cultural identity with every person who walks through our doors,” says Godinymayin Chief Executive Officer Eric Holowacz. “There is very deep interest in the Northern Territory as an inter-state and global tourism destination for Aboriginal arts and culture, and as a unique place to find inspiration in Australia. The Arts Trail investment and upcoming expansion projects will enable our organisation to present new and exciting opportunities for residents, visitors, artists, and audiences. Our team and community are incredibly excited by what’s afoot.”

Learn more about the Construction Tender here.

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