Theatre sod turned at last

By Tania Martin
THE final curtain call has gone out and the stage is set for the construction of Emerald’s long-awaited community theatre.
Anyone would be forgiven for thinking it was the official opening of the theatre last week as the community celebrated the turning of the first sod.
But after more than 10 years of fighting, planning and hoping for a new community theatre, the dream was finally realised for Gemco Players Theatre Group.
After years of fighting for the cash, it was finally granted in November 2006.
In a move that had the local community screaming ‘hallelujah’, the State, Federal and local governments join together to fund the project. In November 2006, the curtain was raised on this long-awaited project with La Trobe MP Jason Wood announcing $440,000 in funding, the State Labor Government pledged $200,000 and the Shire of Cardinia came through with $250,000.
Now, almost two years on, Gemco Players last week celebrated the turning of the first sod on the $900,000 community theatre development.
The project will see the existing theatre in Kilvington Drive extended to include a 150-seat auditorium with a large stage, dressing rooms, storage and work areas, a foyer, toilets and undercover disabled access.
Gemco president David Greenaway said he was always confident the project would get up and running, but never expected it to take so long. “It shouldn’t have taken 10 years,” he said.
“But this is a fantastic day for Gemco and the community.”
Mr Wood said the beginning of construction for the theatre was a tribute to the local community.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato said it was great to see the project finally moving forward.
Ms Lobato said the project was a great example of what could be achieved when all levels of government work with the community.
Despite the digging of the first sod, Mr Greenaway said there was still more to be done.
He said that although state and federal cash had bolstered the project, more funds were still needed.
Mr Greenaway said the cash would just stretch to cover the cost of the construction of the new theatre.
But, he said, more money was needed to help pay for other upgrades such as a new kitchen.
Gemco is now getting ready to host an international trivia quiz on Saturday 25 October to raise cash for the theatre.
Anyone interested in helping Gemco or enjoying a night of trivia should call Ted on 9707 1313.
The theatre is expected to be complete by April next year.