By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE much-anticipated Casey Cultural Precinct could be an outpost for national treasures from the National Art Gallery and the National Museum.
On Tuesday night Casey councillors took up Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt’s offer to organise the displays when the centre opens in 2017.
Mr Hunt flagged the idea of using the $125 million Casey Cultural Centre as a regional arm of the National Gallery of Victoria and the National Museum when he spoke with councillors in May.
Mr Hunt said it would be a brilliant way to utilise what will be a “world-class building to rival the likes of Federation Square.”
“Having a regional arm of the National Gallery of Victoria or Museum Victoria at the new Casey Cultural Precinct would be a terrific drawcard for tourists and locals,” Mr Hunt said.
“Both of these institutions have a large part of their collection packed away at any given time.
“Having these items displayed at the Casey Cultural Precinct rather than in storage would give local residents the chance to experience these exhibits close to home.
“It will draw people from across the south-eastern suburbs to Casey, which will have a flow-on effect to the local economy providing a boost to restaurants, cafes and other businesses.”
Casey councillor Wayne Smith, who put forward the motion, said Mr Hunt’s support would be invaluable in initiating contact between the City of Casey and the National Art Gallery and the National Museum.
Cr Smith also said that if the concept was approved, he hoped the Cultural Precinct could become home to the works from the day it opened.
Mr Hunt said he would work with the City of Casey in the coming months to help “make this idea a reality”.
“Obviously, there are many aspects still to be considered with the Casey Cultural Precinct but I am excited about seeing this community facility come to life,” he said.
ARIA award winning singer Guy Sebastian visited the City of Casey last month to announce the winner of the Casey Cultural Precinct design.
