About Us
Our Story
In February 1891, William Spencer gave a block of land to the Bunbury Municipal Council and the WA Government gave 1000 Pounds for a Town Hall. However, the Council of the day said the town could not afford it. This left the town without a proper performing arts centre.
In the late 1980’s, a steering committee was formed to investigate the potential for a theatre and to try to ‘drive’ public opinion. This was done through the development of concept plans. A fundraising committee was then formed and was very successful in generating corporate and community support and raised $2.2 million. The City of Bunbury provided $3.8 million and the WA Government $1.8 million for the building.
In February 1989, Hames Sharley Architects commenced design work and on 13 June, 1989 the first soil was turned on the site. Construction proper commenced on 19 June, 1989.
The Opening Gala Night was 2 November, 1990, featuring MC Jill Perryman, ballet dancers Fiona Tonkin and David McAllister, pianist David Helfgott, opera singers Thomas Edmonds and Robert Allman and the Band of the Fifth Military District.
Organisational Structure
The Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre is owned by the City of Bunbury. It is administered on behalf of the Council by the not-for-profit organisation, Bunbury Regional Theatre Inc. The Board of Management is voluntary and made up of nine community members and a Councillor from the City of Bunbury. Nominations are called in April each year for positions on the Board. Terms are usually for 2-years. In 2011-12, the Board is made up of:
| Chairman | Mr John Ventris |
| Vice Chairperson | Dr Robyn McCarron |
| Members | Cr Stephen Craddock |
| Mr Ray Frisina | |
| Mr Michel Greenhalgh | |
| Mr Simon Jacob | |
| Mr Brian McLoughlin | |
| Mr Trevor Smith | |
| Ms Dana Trtica | |
| Ms Nicola Waite |
The Board operates with a number of sub-committees, including the Executive Committee, Sponsorship, Youth & Community Development and Building & Development.
Future Plans
Click here to view the most recent Media Release on the BREC Expansion
The Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre is undergoing an exciting re-development thanks to secured funds from the State Government, The City of Bunbury and the Bunbury Wellington Group of Shires (Capel, Collie, Dardanup, Donnybrook-Balingup and Harvey), who have supported this project through the Royalties for Regions ‘Looking Forward Fund’.
Perkins Builders are working closely with Peter Hunt Architects and Theatre Consultant Graham Walne to enhance the existing Centre and build a new state-of-the-art event and conference facility, that will benefit both residents and businesses in the South West region. The project will expand the BREC facilities to include a 250 seat studio theatre; increased administration and foyer space; function and meeting rooms, all with expansive views of Leschenault Inlet and Koombana Bay.
Construction is underway and the new facilities are expected to be open for business in 2014.
With an exciting future ahead, BREC looks forward to welcoming all ages, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds into the new Centre when it opens its doors!
We are now taking bookings for conferences and events in the new building from July 2014. Click here to download and view the new BREC Conventions brochure online.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST: ART PROJECT
Expressions of interest are now open for a new artwork to be installed in the foyer of BREC as a “centrepiece” for the new building interior. Jointly commissioned by BREC, the BREC Club and the Combined Rotary Clubs of Bunbury, the artwork will celebrate community spirit and the work of volunteers in our city and region. Expressions of interest close on 14 June 2013, with the successful artist to be announced on 5 August. Click here to download the artist's brief.
Employment Opportunities
Board positions for 2013: The Board of Management is calling for nominations for volunteers to fill four Board Positions for a two-year term. Nominations close on Wednesday 5 June 2013. Enquiries and nominations to Joel McGuinness, PO Box 1983, Bunbury 6231. For further details call (08) 9792 3111 or email manager@bunburyentertainment.com
Part Time or Casual: If you are interested in casual back stage work, send details of your experience and interest to the Centre's Senior Technician.
Volunteers: The BREC Club is a ‘Friends of the Theatre' group dedicated to supporting the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre and the performing arts in the South West. Volunteers must be a member of the BREC Club
To join as an individual, download the application form, or call the Box Office staff at 1300 661 272.
If you are already a member, volunteer forms are available on request by calling 1300 661 272 or by emailing the Box Office.
Work Experience: Currently we are not accepting work experience students but from June 2014 we can accept up to three Work Experience students per year. Requests must be made through the Centre Manager.
