By Matthew Sims
Incorporating natural environment and echoes of Hobsons Bay’s architectural history, Hobsons Bay council has opened its new-look civic centre in Altona.
Opened on Thursday, September 1, the $10 million redevelopment included a public space at the core of the building, as well as a working space for residents to use, community meeting rooms and an updated customer service foyer.
The council also fitted the building with solar panels as part of its Virtual Energy Network and louvre windows to improve airflow and ventilation.
Hobsons Bay mayor Peter Hemphill said the new building would be a space for the whole community.
“This is not just a work space for council officers, it will be a true community building,” he said.
“Our community will be able to use this building, and it will help us bridge the communication gap that can sometimes exist between our residents and their council.”
The centre’s design also features a number of themed areas, which reflect the natural surroundings and history of Hobsons Bay, including:
* A bricked workspace area representing the heritage Newport Railway Workshops using old bricks from the Newport Railyards;
* An abstract interpretation of local federation architecture including the white weatherboards of the Williamstown area;
* A green zone to reflect the wetlands areas;
* Other repurposed materials, including stools and side tables made from hardwood from a pier pole from the Hobsons Bay Yacht Club; and
* A glass meeting room, known as The Cocoon, to pay tribute to the Altona Skipper Butterfly.
Cr Hemphill said he was “delighted” with the design of the new building.
“This building connects our organisation and its staff to the most important aspects of our city – our natural setting, our history, our industry, our future and, most importantly, our local community,” he said.
The refurbishment also included a quiet sensory and prayer room for neurodivergent visitors.
