Power on for Mildura Powerhouse transformation

07/09/2023

Locals and visitors can now experience a new indoor and outdoor retail, events and function hub near Mildura’s riverfront, with the Powerhouse precinct redevelopment now complete thanks to Victorian Government support.

The Mildura Riverfront Powerhouse Precinct redevelopment is open and backed by more than $5.9 million from the Government. The project is designed to bring the community together and boost tourism opportunities, while creating more job opportunities for locals.

The early 1900s-era Powerhouse building has been restored and upgraded to include spaces for creative exhibitions, function, retail and events spaces, along with a bar. The project has created 120 local jobs during construction.

A new outdoor space has been added to the precinct’s existing Village Square so that more people can enjoy the area. The Village Square features a digital information platform to find out what’s on in Mildura, Shippy’s Café and a new outdoor area for people to gather year-round.

The Powerhouse building is next to the Mildura Art Gallery and will pave the way for more artistic exhibitions that showcase the work of local artists.

A new artwork supported by the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program will soon be launched and projected on the outside of the Powerhouse building to represent women’s connection to country.

The original Powerhouse building was known as the “machine room” within the historic, coal-fired Mildura Power Plant before it closed in the 1950s due to the establishment of the State Electricity Commission.

The restored building and precinct is today powered by an array of solar panels and also houses the Council’s first battery storage system that supports its wide range of facilities and businesses.

Mildura is a vital part of Victoria’s rich agriculture industry thanks to its arid climate, with local industries exporting a wide range of products to local and international markets. It is also a major destination for tourism and events throughout the year.

The Mildura Riverfront Powerhouse Precinct redevelopment has received funding from Regional Development Victoria, Sustainability Victoria and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.

The project is part of the Government’s investment of more than $41 billion across rural and regional Victoria since 2015.