Bunjil Place construction to commence

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The impressive City of Casey Bunjil Place project has edged closer to fruition with the recent appointment of Brookfield Multiplex to construct the $125 million cultural centre. Not wasting any time, the council made the announcement this week with Brookfield expected to begin set up on site this week and construction commencing in the coming weeks. The international contractor won the significant tender largely based on their experience with other full scale projects including Federation Square, the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Bunjil Place represents one of the largest projects undertaken by a local council in Australia and signifies an acknowledgement of the growth and importance of our Eastern Growth Corridor. The arts and community centre will include an 800-seat regional theatre, studio, regional art gallery, library and meeting rooms, civic centre, council offices and community plaza. The City of Casey anticipate about 1 million visitors each year.

Following a two-stage design competition, Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp were chosen as project architect for the 22,000sqm mixed-use community-based facility. According to City of Casey, Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp were able to incorporate a number of Council’s objectives into the design, which includes:

• A community, cultural and civic heart
• An identity that reflects community values
• Telling the story of our community and celebrates our history and diversity
• A strong inclusive, inviting and engaging public plaza
• An activated and engaging space for events and informal meetings
• Complementary surrounding facilities
• A truly unique design that instils pride and ownership by the community
• A visible and transparent connection with Council
• Harness emerging technologies and digital art forms

The name Bunjil Place draws on Casey’s Aboriginal heritage. This is the traditional land of the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri people. Bunjil is derived from traditional Aboriginal mythology, meaning ‘the eagle’. The name was selected by Council, following a naming competition, community vote and extensive community consultation. Council agreed that the historical significance of the name and its close link with the architecture of the building, which gives the illusion of an eagles wings, was fitting.

On it’s completion, Bunjil Place will serve as a world class facility to South East locals, including Eliston residents, providing a place where the community can celebrate, collaborate and connect.

Now’s the time to secure your residency at Eliston, as our latest Harvest Parkside Release is selling fast. Head down to our Discovery Centre this weekend see our fresh new house and land packages from Melbourne’s leading builders. We’re open 7 days, 11am to 5pm at 20 Pattersons Road.