$12 million to revitalise the heart of kyneton

The old Kyneton Primary School occupies a special place in our region’s heart. One that is based on its history as one of the oldest schools in Victoria, and the memories that so many people in our community have forged there.

That’s why the Andrews Government will invest $12million into the Old Kyneton Primary School site on Baynton Street to create a new exhibition space, heralding a new future for the site.

The 1.2 hectare site, located at 7-15 Baynton Street, includes heritage and non-heritage buildings and a large outdoor green space that adjoins the town square.

In 2018 Premier Daniel Andrews made a commitment that this site would continue to be a public space, a space for the community, and this announcement will ensure that the necessary upgrades can occur.

More than that, it delivers a bold new future that celebrates and builds on the Macedon Ranges reputation as a dynamic and creative hub.

The exhibition space will complement existing public and private art galleries, workshops and other creative events across central Victoria.

This funding will not only support that essential maintenance and upgrades for the buildings, but also provides a clear indication of the community’s ambitions for the site.

Expressions of Interest from organisations, groups or individuals with the skills, experience and vision to create a vibrant, sustainable place in the heart of Kyneton were sought earlier this year.

Six Expressions of Interest were submitted and each underwent a rigorous assessment by a panel including representatives from the Department of Treasury and Finance, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Department of Premier and Cabinet and an independent auditor.

While the EOI process has now been completed, the Government is negotiating in confidence with the recommended EOI respondent.

This announcement is part of a $34.7 million investment in regional creative infrastructure projects that will entertain, inspire and delight regional communities across the state.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP
"This $12 million investment for the creation of art exhibition spaces cements Central Victoria’s reputation as an arts and culture destination."

"I’m proud that this funding matches our community’s ambition for this hugely significant site – and I look forward to continuing to work with the community to see the site reach its full potential."