2 July 2014

Greater Shepparton City Council welcomes the announcement from the Deputy Premier Peter Ryan for funding of $125,000 from the Regional Growth Fund for a feasibility study on a new Shepparton Art Museum (SAM).

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Jenny Houlihan, said "SAM has a definitive role to play in the sustainability of the Goulburn Valley and the cultural vitality and resilience of the residents who live here."

"This funding is vital for the future of SAM," she said. "The feasibility study will identify and assess options for the growth of SAM, including the viability of a new Museum. It will also provide recommendations to address the current constraints and limitations of SAM."

"The study will identify business planning factors and provide advice about the substance and the form of a new SAM, as well as its impact on the region. The specific needs of SAM, such as the growth of its collections, exhibitions, public and education programs, will form part of the study."

"The study should provide a clear picture about the ability of a new SAM to propel an arts-led economic and social development for our region," said Cr Houlihan. "The creation of such a major tourist attraction will drive visitation to the area and signify to a much wider audience than before that Greater Shepparton is a contemporary cultural hub, a ‘must-do' place to visit, a superb place to live and a place in which to establish a business with confidence."

Cr Houlihan also said "The experience of visitors to the Museum is currently limited by its small size, while space also constrains its ability to host events, functions, exhibition openings and larger forums."

The public tender for the SAM Feasibility Study will be advertised on Friday 4th July.