Jude Munro AO, Board Chair of the Victorian Pride Centre together with Minister for Equality, Martin Foley MP, have announced that Hansen Yuncken would build the iconic Victorian Pride Centre on Fitzroy street, St Kilda.
Hansen Yuncken has been selected to build the Victorian Pride Centre after a comprehensive tender evaluation process assessed a number of highly competitive bids. One of four shortlisted companies vying for the contract, Hansen Yuncken, met or exceeded each of the construction tender criteria.
“We are absolutely delighted to be appointed as the builder of this truly unique and exciting project,” said Louise Hansen, Director Hansen Yuncken Pty Ltd. “From the outset we recognised the importance of the project to LGBTIQ communities as well as local residents and businesses, and we were determined to be involved.”
“We are very proud to have been selected and we now look forward to building strong and positive relationships with the project team and local communities.”
A committee made up of experts in construction, engineering and design, value and project management assessed the construction bids and advised the Victorian Pride Centre Board.
“Hansen Yuncken, through its tender application, have committed to delivering the project ahead of our original timelines and to a responsible budget, but also to the vision of creating an iconic landmark for LGBTIQ communities. I wish to thank the other tenderers, all of whom submitted strong applications.” said Ms Munro.
Demolition of the old Monroe’s restaurant on the St Kilda site will commence shortly, laying the groundwork for construction to begin mid 2019. Construction is expected to be completed by mid 2020.
“The Pride Centre, when completed in mid 2020, will be one of the largest in the world, at 6000 square metres in floor space.,” added Ms Munro. “This is another significant milestone to turning a vision and architectural plan into reality: a building of solidity and strength, but also of openness and vibrancy.”
The Victorian Pride Centre will be a safe, inclusive and vibrant LGBTIQ community hub, and a destination where the public, community groups and organisations will connect, share, support and engage. It is set to support the revitalisation of Fitzroy Street in St Kilda, alongside the recently renovated Esplanade Hotel.
“Victoria is the progressive state, and the Pride Centre will be the jewel in the crown of our equality and inclusion agenda,” said Minister Foley. “It will provide Victoria’s LGBTIQ communities a space to meet, share ideas, collaborate and celebrate our diversity.”
For more information, and to view an animated ‘flyover’ showing the development of the Victorian Pride Centre from demolition to construction, visit: www.pridecentre.org.au for details.
Image: Richard Hansen, Jude Munro AO and Martin Foley MP (supplied)