The Wedge Performing Arts Centre in Sale will undergo a redevelopment, as part of Wellington Shire Council’s vision to ensure it remains a vibrant and accessible local hub for creativity, performance and community, well into the future.
The project will deliver a range of improvements, including new spaces to encourage local artistic engagement, modernised and expanded toilet facilities for improved comfort and accessibility, and upgrades to operational elements to support a broader range of high-quality performances. Back-of-stage technical enhancements will also enable more dynamic and diverse shows.
The redevelopment will be supported by a community-involved project steering group, ensuring local voices help shape the future of the venue. The project is supported by the John Leslie Foundation (contributing $1.5 million), as well as a $91,000 local donation, as part of an estimated $3.4 million budget – reflecting council’s strong commitment to arts and culture in the region.
Wellington Shire mayor Cindy Madeley said the redevelopment would build on The Wedge’s momentum as a leading regional performing arts hub, ensuring the venue remained modern, accessible and equipped to host an even greater variety of events.
“Locals and visitors to The Wedge consistently tell us how much they value the centre – not only as a place to enjoy great performances, conferences and events, but as a space that has transformed their experience of Sale,” Cr Madeley said.
“By progressing this redevelopment, we’re acting on our commitment to arts and culture in the region and ensuring our iconic landmark continues to be a thriving hub for creativity, performance and community connection for years to come.”
Shirley’s Café & Bar will close on February 1 as part of preparations for the redevelopment. From this date, council will manage the café space to provide catering for shows only, ensuring the project can move ahead smoothly and deliver the planned improvements throughout 2026. Council thanked the current lessees, Jason Hughes and Patrick Barry, for their contribution since 2023.
