Fire Station 101 evolves into a hub for Ipswich creatives
06 August 2024
Local creatives are excited for changes at Ipswich City Council’s Limestone Street venue, Fire Station 101, which has transformed into a multi-arts hub.
Following feedback from the Ipswich Arts Advisory Group and attendees at the 2023 Creators of Ipswich Summit, council has broadened the focus of Fire Station 101 to allow the space to be converted into a vibrant creative industries hub.
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the renewed focus will open doors for local artists and creatives, providing them with new opportunities.
“Fire Station 101 will give our thriving local arts community a lively space to forge new relationships, rehearse shows, attend workshops and of course create,” Cr Augustine said.
“One of the most significant changes to the venue is the addition of the new Content Room, giving creatives and businesses a space to create content videos, record podcasts and photograph products and creations.
“Digital content has the potential to connect artists with diverse audiences from across the globe on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Fire Station 101 now has the facilities to enable this.”
The renovation is part of the Ipswich Central Revitalisation project to deliver a cultural heart to the Ipswich Community.
Fire Station 101 will complement council’s wider focus on delivering for the city’s creative community with the former Jamie’s Kitchen in d’Arcy Doyle Place recently reopening as the Ipswich Art Workshop.
Since its opening, the Art Workshop has hosted multiple talks and delivered workshops to the creative community, attracting over 200 people.
“Fire Station 101’s increased focus as a creative hub has already produced fantastic results,” Cr Augustine said.
“Most recently the venue was home to The Drowsy Chaperone, a comedic musical production. Having an energetic creative community who are engaged and diverse truly enhances the cultural vitality of Ipswich.”
Fire Station 101 was previously purchased by council and refurbished in 2016; it has previously been used as a co-working space, Defence hub and now creative hub.
Enquiries for room bookings can be made via IpswichCivicCentre.com.au. The Content Room will be live for bookings later this year.