Local businesses were amongst the first to hear Glasshouse Manager Joe Conneely speak of his vision and priorities for 2011 and beyond.
Mr Conneely was the guest speaker at the recent Hastings Business Enterprise Network Breakfast where, after the approval of the Glasshouse Arts Entertainment and Conference Centre business plan by Council in December, he spoke extensively on his broad focus and the Glasshouse’s critical role in the development of social capital for our community — not only through economic regeneration, but also broader social regeneration.
“It’s all about generating ideas for revitalising Port Macquarie in a unique and dynamic way,” he said.
“We need to create a symbiotic relationship between the Glasshouse and Port Macquarie — in that Port Macquarie is the Glasshouse and Glasshouse represents everything good about Port Macquarie.
“If we can do this, it will be great for our community and also for the attraction of visitors seeking premium weekend getaways from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne,” Mr Conneely said.
Discussions after the event indicated that some attendees were pleasantly surprised that the Glasshouse and Mr Conneely’s vision is not ‘just about entertainment’.
The ideas and plans presented focused on activity and engagement both within the Glasshouse and the town centre more broadly – the creation of an entertainment precinct, increased activity in the glasshouse forecourt, a focus on street art and other place making initiatives, the Country Energy education program which brings students from the region to the Glasshouse, the Gallery program for visitors and locals, and the ‘on tour’ program.
Mr Conneely encouraged people to take a look at the Glasshouse business plan which is available on the Council website, and welcomed additional ideas and engagement.
