The first stage of a redevelopment to the Old Dubbo Gaol has taken place, with a ceremonial “sod turn” occurring at the site on Tuesday.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders took part in the event, and said the planned upgrades, which will include interpretive installations, signage, landscaping works and improvements to visitor infrastructure.
This in turn will help boost the gaol’s reputation as a leading tourism and education facility.
“The NSW Government has contributed $600,000 to this program from the Regional Culture Fund, which is designed to help tell the tales of regional NSW, and there is little doubt Old Gaol has a rich history,” Mr Saunders said.
“We’re also contributing to upgrades at the Gaol through the $10 million allocated to the ‘Destination Dubbo’ program, which also includes the Wiradjuri Cultural Centre and an outdoor events facility at Ollie Robbins Oval.
“That program is worth a total of $12.6 million and the Gaol plaza component is worth $5 million, so there is a big emphasis being placed on the facility.
“In recent times the gaol has reinvented itself by not only being a location that organically draws people, but one that hosts events such as Gluttony, Prohibition and movie nights.
“As a result of drought and COVID-19 we’ve seen the benefit of ongoing investment in our regions, which keeps people in work and attracts visitors, and this project at the Old Dubbo Gaol fits the bill on both counts.