Coolamon Shire Council has adopted a new six-year strategic plan to help guide the future of the Coolamon Up-to-Date Store and Cultural Learning Precinct at its August meeting last week. One of the Coolamon Shire’s key cultural assets, the Precinct is a State Heritage-listed building, which provides a venue for visitors and various exhibitions, events and community activities. The previous plan was developed with the help of consultant Kim Biggs and provided direction for the management and enhancement of the store. As part of its development, consultation was undertaken with councillors, council staff, volunteers and user groups of the precinct. Funding from Museums and Galleries NSW enabled the council to develop the new strategic plan. During discussions at the meeting, the council’s General Manager, Tony Donoghue, said the newly adopted plan would help guide the precinct’s continued growth and development over the next six years. “It’s always good to reset and be on the pathway we want to be,” he said. “The precinct is growing more and more. “The strategic plan is quite appropriate.” The newly adopted Strategic Plan 2027-2032 follows the previous 2019-2024 plan, which saw numerous significant projects completed. A report to the council stated some of these included an electronic door and lighting system installed in the stage area, new paving and seating in the outdoor space, a hanging system developed in collaboration with the Up-To-Date Art Exhibition committee, refurbishment of floorboards and repairs to the store’s roof. Other achievements included stage one of the Gullaman collection, establishment of the Mavis Furner working group to maintain and rotate garments, completion of the “Our Shire, Our Stories” series and the formation of a Section 355 local history group. The venue has also hosted exhibitions, art festival opening nights, school visits, weddings, workshops, school holiday activities, car clubs and bus tours. “The precinct continues to expand in its use, with increased visitation and a growing range of activities, exhibitions and experiences,” the report stated. “It has developed a strong regional reputation as both a significant heritage building and cultural precinct. “It is an integral part of Coolamon Shire’s heritage story and visitor experience.” The plan builds on the work undertaken through the previous plan, while identifying priorities and opportunities for the next six years. Some key priorities have been identified in the 2027-2032 plan. These include updating the A-Z concept plan, developing an exhibition-style guide, completing the Garth Jones Collection and Garth’s shed, updating signage and display boards, finalising the Gullaman collection, upgrading toilet facilities and increasing temporary exhibitions. The plan will also explore and identify opportunities to incorporate technology into future displays and exhibits, helping ensure the precinct continues to evolve while preserving and celebrating shire’s heritage story. It will also strengthen the council’s position when applying for grants and other external funding opportunities.
