Cowra Civic Centre Re-Opens to Rave Reviews Following Renovations
Published on 17 June 2024
Cowra Civic Centre has reopened its doors after extensive renovations including state-of-the-art retractable seating. The first major event, the 70th annual Cowra Eisteddfod, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from both new and returning guests.
The upgraded facility, with funding from the NSW Government, has been designed to enhance the comfort and experience of all visitors, making it a premier regional venue for a wide variety of events.
Civic Centre Manager, Jarrad Shiells, expressed his excitement about the successful reopening saying, that "heading straight from renovations into the 70th annual Cowra Eisteddfod was an exciting first trial of the layout.”
“We received some great testimonials from parents and visitors alike. The comfort and the change in acoustics meant people could order a coffee in the foyer and have a chat between themselves without the sound traveling to the stage as it had done for 69 years prior," said Jarrad.
Shiells highlighted the versatility of the renovated Civic Centre, stating, "the variety of events that can now be held means programming events and taking bookings from commercial and community user groups is made that bit easier.”
“The new layout with ramps around the outside of the room, fewer obstructions, and better flow and feel means we are able to create meaningful experiences with ease. Conferences, live music, theatre, school holiday entertainment, comedy, balls, and weddings - we can now do it all! We just have to press a button!"
Cowra Eisteddfod Society Vice President, Jenny Friend, shared her thoughts on the new seating arrangements and like many is ecstatic with the changes.
“I must say I was unsure what to expect with all the talk about the new seating. From a personal point of view, it was such a pleasure to be able to sit and see everything on stage without having to dodge from side to side to see what was happening. The seating is most comfortable, and even though there are steps to navigate, I did find the steps quite manageable due to the width of each step,” said Jenny.
“From an Eisteddfod point of view, it also worked well for the audience. There were many very positive comments from the visiting audience members about the look, the comfort, and the ease of getting to their seats.”
Cowra Shire Council Mayor, Ruth Fagan, also expressed her satisfaction with the renovations and the successful reopening event echoing the sentiments of many.
“The Cowra Civic Centre has always been a cornerstone of our community, and these renovations have only enhanced its status as a versatile and welcoming venue. The positive feedback from the Cowra Eisteddfod participants and audience members is a testament to the hard work and dedication that went into this project. We look forward to seeing the many wonderful events that will take place here in the future.
The Cowra Civic Centre is now fully operational and accepting bookings for a variety of events. For more information, please contact the Cowra Civic Centre or visit their website. The Cowra Shire Council Facebook page, website, the Civic Centre Facebook page or contact the Council on 02 6340 2000.