Geelong Performing Arts Centre: staff profile – Elizabeth Cook

Project Manager Elizabeth Cook is proud to work on the $38.5 million Ryrie Street redevelopment of the Geelong Performing Arts Centre.

Elizabeth went to high school in Geelong and her family still live locally so she feels as though she has the best of both worlds by splitting her time between Melbourne and Geelong to work on the project. In her role as Project Manager at Development Victoria, no two days look the same. The variation in work is something that Elizabeth enjoys most – from contract management, liaising with the project’s various stakeholders, regular site visits and financial reporting. 

“This second stage of the Geelong Performing Arts Centre redevelopment is beautifully conceived. When lit from within the translucent glazing will give a lantern-like appearance. I have no doubt that it will be a real visual talking point for Geelong,” said Elizabeth.

The arts centre is Victoria’s only state-owned cultural institution outside of Melbourne. It brings a wide array of creative and cultural experiences to Geelong and the region, and has given many local artists their first taste of the stage. 

Geelong is a great place to live and more Victorians are moving to the state’s second largest city for good jobs and a better lifestyle. Upon completion, the redevelopment will enable Geelong to grow as a cultural hub by attracting a greater diversity of high quality productions both locally and internationally. 

“The architectural design of the Ryrie Street Redevelopment is impressive. The space will provide a centre for the expansion of performance and arts based projects –a stunning transformation to not only witness but to be a part of,” said Elizabeth.  

Development Victoria is partnering with Creative Victoria, Geelong Preforming Arts Centre and Regional Development Victoria to deliver the redevelopment.