Cowes' new cultural centre, Berninneit, has been officially opened, marking the ultimate milestone in a journey that started in 2005.
Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Cr Michael Whelan was joined by the representative for the federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Senator Jess Walsh, Member for Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, Council's Acting CEO James Stirton, Councillors and representatives from the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation to unveil the centre's sign and initiate a week of opening activity.
Mayor, Cr Michael Whelan said opening Berninneit was a special moment for many.
"It really is an honour to officially open this remarkable building." Cr Whelan said.
"Berninneit is a testament to the power of a community coming together and celebrating our shared vision and connections. It will bring years of performance, visual arts, story gathering and learnings to our community and beyond, entertaining and enriching generations to come."
This project was brought to life through extensive community engagement, ensuring the centre would meet the needs of the growing Phillip Island region. During construction, it generated 100 full-time jobs and added $19.2 million in local economic value to Bass Coast.
Senator Walsh, representing the federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said centres like Berninneit play a vital role in communities.
"Investments in these centres are more than bricks and mortar - they are places where stories are told, culture is celebrated, and laughter is shared," Senator Walsh said.
"The spirit of this centre is captured beautifully by its name, Berninneit, a Bunurong word meaning 'gather together'".
Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale said the centre was a whole of community effort and would serve, inspire, nourish locals and visitors for years to come.
"I can't wait to see the array of cultural events, happenings, performances and artistry our region has to offer and will also attract," Ms Crugnale said.
"Berninneit is about gathering together, and I have no doubt it will absolutely become the cultural and social beating heart of Phillip Island - Millowl - and create a beautiful sense of pride. The engagement program included developing a concept design and forming a Council Working Group, that represented many community voices.
Bass Coast residents also had their say, reviewing the concept design and actively sharing their ideas.
"Aside from entertaining residents and tourists, Berninneit will contribute more than $50 million to the local economy," Cr Whelan said.
"It's an investment in our community and the future of this region - we expect more than 100,000 people to visit each year."
"As a council, we are incredibly proud to fund a legacy project like Berninneit, and we thank the State and Federal governments for their contributions as well."
Council also acknowledged the local Traditional Owners, the Bunurong People, who offered a list of local Indigenous names for the cultural centre, with Berninneit, which means Gather Together, chosen by the community.
The week of celebrations will continue, with Berninneit opening to the community on 2 November with the inaugural program revealed on 1 November.
