Hitting the big 100
Berninneit has celebrated its first 100 days where it has welcomed over 10,000 people.
The new cultural centre in Cowes, Berninneit, just celebrated its first 100 days where it has welcomed over 10,000 people to a range of sold-out shows and exhibitions.
Bass Coast Shire Council celebrated the milestone saying the "Passivhaus masterpiece has been applauded for its sustainable architecture, community warmth and incredible acoustics – lauded for months by visitors, architects, celebrities, artists and media".
"So far, our community as well as visitors from all around Australia and the world have been treated to a series of full house events featuring live music, cinema, dance, exhibitions, community curated productions, family theatre, music and much more," a council spokesperson said.
To date, the show's Berninneit has hosted include Kate Ceberano, Kutcha Edwards, Baluk Arts 'Millowl' exhibition, Elly Poletti, Kate Miller-Heidke, Brian Nankervis, Steph Strings, the PICES Pop Up art exhibiton and the second last performance of Tubular Bells for Two.
The library, which is positioned in a beautiful garden lit corner of the ground floor, has welcomed thousands of visitors and seen a great uptake in library memberships.
Next to the library is the new home of the Phillip Island and District Historical Society.
The newly established museum is "a treasure trove of our shared heritage, showcasing a captivating collection of artefacts and digital stories that vividly narrate the evolution of our community", the society said.
Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve said while it took many years to become a reality, "the dream of Berninneit is truly alive and well and has become a pulsing heart of arts in southern Victoria".
"We have had a groundswell of support from residents, artists, producers, media as well as visitors from across the world.
"It's been marvellous to hear so many wonderful reviews of the space and to know that it will be a hub of creativity and learning for many generations," Cr Le Serve said.
"I'd like to thank everyone again who has been involved in making this project come to life and for getting the message out.
"The tremendous success in such a short time of 100 days has meant so much for our community, our staff as well as all the artists and producers who have come in.
"The numbers tell the story – and after so many sold-out shows, I'd encourage everyone to connect with us online and make sure you book early so you're not disappointed to miss out on any future shows."
The centre also hosts a regular schedule of movies, with popular children's films screening over the holidays.
Upcoming screenings include The Boy and the Heron, Dune, Poor Things, Next Goal Wins and One Life.
Upcoming live performances include NEWK The John Newcombe Story, Ralph McTell, Elly Poletti, A little bit of blue and Slava Grigoryan.
Coming soon to the Berninneit gallery, "On the Horizon" is an exhibition featuring selected works from the Bass Coast Shire Council Art Collection.
