FAQs - General
The Civic Centre faced major disruptions since 2019, including partial closure due to COVID-19 restrictions and use as a COVID-19 Vaccination Hub; use as Gympie’s Evacuation and Community Recovery Centre during the 2022 flood disaster.
Significant mould damage and building deterioration required specialist assessment, testing and remediation planning.
Independent structural, electrical, HVAC and compliance investigations were needed to understand the full extent of required works.
Design, costing and engineering work was more complex than originally anticipated due to the age of the building and changes in building codes.
Multiple funding scenarios and procurement pathways were explored to ensure the project was financially responsible and achievable.
Council undertook a formal, competitive tender process, which has now been completed, and a preferred contractor has been selected.
While the process has been lengthy, each stage was essential to ensure the revitalisation is safe, durable, compliant, cost-effective, and delivers the best long-term outcome for the community.
Why is the Civic Centre being revitalised?
The building has experienced major disruptions and damage since 2019, including use as a COVID Vaccination Hub, an Evacuation and Community Recovery Centre during the 2022 floods, and significant mould infestation. Assessments confirmed the need for major restoration, upgrades, and compliance improvements so the facility can safely reopen and serve the community again.
What is included in the revitalisation works?
The project will deliver essential building remediation, mould treatment, upgraded finishes, improvements to the auditorium and public spaces, accessibility upgrades, safety improvements, and infrastructure modernisation to meet current building standards and theatre specifications.
What benefits will the revitalised Civic Centre bring?
A safe, modern and flexible venue for community events, arts and cultural activities, school formals, performances, civic ceremonies, exhibitions, emergency response operations and more. It will support local artists, strengthen cultural identity, and support reactivation of the CBD.
Why has it taken so long to get this project off the ground?
There have been several factors contributing to the timeframe: