November 20th, 2024Paver fundraiser for Courthouse Theatre
Creswick Theatre Company is determined to pave the way to improving accessibility to the town’s historic Courthouse Theatre – one paver at a time.
The active little theatre company is inviting everyone to pitch in by purchasing a personalised paver, thus paving their own way to becoming part of Creswick’s Courthouse Theatre history.
CTC secretary and fundraising coordinator Heather Ingram says the main aim is to build an accessibility ramp leading up to the front entrance to the Courthouse Theatre which is the theatre company’s home.
They’re also keen to see the venue used by more groups, and to ensure that it is readily accessible for all.
Last month CTC started selling personalised brick pavers that will be used to build a paved path linking to the planned all-abilities access ramp.
So far the fundraiser has been gaining good momentum but the chance to be part of history ends on November 28.
“Construction will take place next year and we’re now in the planning permit stage. We are hoping to secure a grant as well,” Heather says.
“The ramp is going to look gorgeous and the path will be part of the landscaping. Inside the theatre we’re also going to get the foyer raised so as to be at the same level as the theatre.”
The pavers cost $50 for an individual or $75 for businesses and they can be obtained online at events.humanitix.com/bricks.
“They’ll be there for posterity and they will be engraved, so you can get them engraved in your own name or as a memorial to a loved one.”
At the moment the main front entrance to the historic theatre – that once served as the Creswick’s courthouse – is accessed by some fairly large steps making it extremely difficult for some to get in.
“It doesn’t even have to be someone in a wheelchair,” Heather says. “It’s difficult for anyone on a walker or even just someone with a bad knee.”
The ramp and flooring upgrades are estimated to cost around $50,000 all up, and if sufficient funds can be raised fast enough, CTC members hope work can get started by the first half of 2025 and in time for CresFest.
Words: Eve Lamb
