Construction
Construction of the Mildura Powerhouse Precinct officially got under way in January 2022 following the appointment of Indigenous construction company Rork Projects Pty Ltd as head contractors.
Early works focused on clearing the site, and preparing the Powerhouse building itself - especially the basement which will soon act as a multipurpose space. Underground civil works were also a major focus during the first few months of construction.
In June 2022, works to erect the Boiler House shade structure began, with the overall goal to provide shade for users, while also acting as an open events space.
The Boiler House Structure pays homage to the history of the Powerhouse Precinct, acting as "a ghost structure" of buildings of the past (check out this photo taken during the 1956 flood!)
Built on the footprint of where a previous boiler room once stood, this structure pays homage to the heritage of the riverfront and will create a shaded outdoor events space when complete.
Construction of the Boiler House Structure was funded through the Australian Government's Murray Darling Basin Economic Program.
Tucked partly beneath the roofline of the boiler room, a new public amenities block is also taking shape. Comprising multiple accessible toilets, this facility will be well-utilised by the thousands of locals and tourists who visit our beautiful riverfront every year.
Construction of the future new home of Shippy’s Café was also well underway by November 2022. The popular café will have more space and expand its hospitality offering when it relocates to a new stand-alone building within the precinct in 2023.
Inside the Powerhouse itself, tradesmen are working to create a large flexible events space at the rear of the building and a smaller event space in the basement below. A lobby at the front of the building will house a visitor experience area and tourism business operation.
By May 2023, contractors were edging closer to completing the multimillion redevelopment, with the installation of acoustic ceiling tiles in the Powerhouse building and solar panels installed on the Boiler House.
The Event Kitchen is also coming to life, while work on the public toilets, changing places facility and the food and beverage outlet that will be the home of Shippy’s Café is also well underway.
Outdoor pavement and concrete seating works were also progressing.