In 2018-19, the Centre of Contemporary Arts (CoCA) Cairns will be upgraded through a $3.5 million Queensland Government investment.

State Member for Cairns Michael Healy said local firm TPG Architects had been appointed to carry out the design work and undertake targeted local arts sector consultation on the concept plans. Early design concepts are available here arts.qld.gov.au

“To help achieve the new-look CoCA, TPG has enlisted prominent local Indigenous visual artist Brian Robinson, who designed the athletes’ parade track at the Commonwealth Games, and contemporary Indigenous dancer and choreographer Pauline Lampton,” he said.

“These artists will help facilitate local consultation, including with Traditional Owners, to ensure the final plans make the most of this development opportunity and reflect the needs of the community.”

Mr Healy said the upgraded CoCA would open up new performance and creative opportunities to Far North Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and offer rich cultural experiences to new audiences.

“CoCA’s façade and entry will be redesigned to reflect the Indigenous performing arts focus of the centre,” he said.

“Plans for CoCA also include upgraded theatre equipment and amenities, improved green rooms and theatre access including a new foyer.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said there would also be enhanced access to gallery and retail spaces; and the opportunity to incorporate new public artworks.

CoCA will close for building works in September, with an expected reopening in April 2019.