2016-08-09 S&O Agenda Item 8, Attachment 1 - CCIQ Noosa Convention and Cultural Centre Initiative Pre-feasibility Study

      CCIQ Noosa #3 Noosa Convention & Cultural Centre Initiative
      Pre-feasibility Study                                                                                                       April 2016




                           The development of a state-of-the-art performance, visual arts, convention and
Initiative                 exhibition centre cross-collateralised functionality within stand-alone and distinct
Outline1                   operations contained within an architecturally iconic building.

                           The aim is to create a cultural and business-tourism hub in central Noosa to refocus
                           the Noosa Brand for innovation, creativity and style.

                           ‘Resident Company2’ status could be allocated to Noosa Long Weekend, Noosa
                           Regional Gallery, Noosa Community Radio, Noosa Jazz Festival, Noosa Federation for
                           the Arts, Noosa Biosphere Institute for Sustainability and Noosa International Film
                           Festival plus aspects of the Noosa Food and Wine Festival. Over time a Professional
                           Theatre Company3 could be established within the facility – a first for the Sunshine
                           Coast.




                           All advice received recommends not to propose a single multi-purpose space which
Symbiosis                  tries to accommodate conflicting technical and operational needs across arts,
                           entertainment, conventions and exhibitions. Rather, the strong recommendation is
                           for two integrated facilities specific for purpose. These have the greatest practical
                           options for attracting business, delivering state-of-the-art services and operating in
                           sympathy rather than conflicting - best fit for best outcomes.




                           Ideally a complete redevelopment of the site currently housing The J is considered to
Favoured Site –            be the best location for a dual arts, entertainment and convention / exhibition centre
         The J             facility. However other location options may be identified during the 2016 Planning
                           Scheme Review.

                           The J site has distinct location advantages. It has the space in terms of footprint area,
                           elevated space requirements and a corner position offering multiple points of access
                           and egress for on-site operation. That being said, the working group recognise some
                           challenges to be considered by the feasibility study – the design must overcome
                           sound ‘bleed’ into the surrounding residential precinct; the design must specifically
                           provide the performing arts and music with a world-class facility; the construction
                           phase should work around established performance timetable demands so as to
                           minimise disruption to established schedules. In fact these criteria should apply to

      1
        “...a venue which develops the region’s identity as a location for business tourism will consequently expand the local economy through
      delegate spend, the provision of supporting infrastructure and services, increased employment opportunities and increased leisure
      tourism via the provision of higher-end accommodation options and enhanced regional exposure.” October 2011 Feasibility Study:
      Sunshine Coast Entertainment, Convention & Exhibition Centre P20.
      “International evidence points to the fact that contemporary entertainment, convention and exhibition centres are increasingly significant
      not just for the core functions suggested by their names, but as important cultural and community hubs and as key identities for
      connectivity across their local communities.” “Cultural vitality and identify are therefore derived in part from such successful centres.”
      October 2011 Feasibility Study: Sunshine Coast Entertainment, Convention & Exhibition Centre P23.
      2
        A term common in the arts and entertainment sectors to designate a preferred expert organisation in a particular field. The status also
      carries an obligation to program a minimum level of content in the ‘home’ centre
      3
        Noosa Arts Theatre not included as they own their own building but they remain a ‘user’ of the larger facility for bigger shows




                                               CCIQ Noosa © 2015-16                                                              4|Page