The Fun Haus Factory is set to turn an abandoned bank in the Gosford CBD into a permanent, community Arts and Culture Centre and is looking for community support to help make it happen.
The Fun Haus Factory has been behind more than 500 vibrant activations across the Central Coast which have attracted more than 50,000 participants, created over $600,000 in paid artist opportunities and $500,000 in paid jobs across arts administration, marketing, operations and food and beverage.
It has this week launched a 30-day crowdfunding drive to raise the final $77,240 needed to open the doors and pass compliance for its new centre.
The Fun Haus has delivered vibrancy, cohesion and positive recognition for the region with multiple awards including a state award for its Origami Folding Light and Sound Festival and a nation award for its YAAS youth program.
It has now taken the greatest leap in its history by signing a commercial lease in the centre of Mann St, hoping the new centre will be activated as a beacon for locals and a must-stop on the East Coast touring map for visitors.
It plans to present live music, community theatre, creative youth activities, workshops and a new gallery, with a flow-on effect for local restaurants, bars and the planned entertainment precinct.
“We have been working towards this ambitious project for six years; it’s the hardest thing we have ever attempted” Acting General Manager Juan Iocco said.
“Every cent is a key that unlocks community potential.”
The self-funded community project has been achieved through the determination of the organisation’s 300 strong volunteers and committee, sometimes working up to 18-hour days to boost the savings pool.
Creative Director Glitta Supernova said independent cultural spaces were important for community and CBD building.
“It’s where we share stories, exchange ideas, and build connections,” she said.
“Alongside all the cranes in the air we are the cranes on the ground, accelerating our society and changing culture.
“With no income and mounting bills, we’re asking the community we are serving to support finishing the build to gain our occupancy certificate.
“Costs from floor grinding for accessibility to mandatory fire safety upgrades are urgent, practical needs.
“None are luxuries and each unlocks a vital possibility.”
Every contribution is tax-deductible.
Donate and learn more at funhausfactory.org.au/gosford/
Why don’t you ask the local residents who live around Kibble Park for financial assistance?
You have been providing free music, karaoke and even the opportunity to hear your bingo calls with your open venue currently operating. We didn’t ask to hear it in our lounge rooms and bedrooms but I’m sure many of us are grateful.