A GIANT pixelated portrait of Sir Robert Helpmann is taking shape as external renovations continue at Mount Gambier’s civic centre.
Zinc panels fixed to a steel and plywood frame are being installed to cover the building’s deteriorating tiles, with a silhouette of the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre’s namesake on the south western face of the 30m fly tower.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre manager Frank Morello said the mosaic facade was a vast improvement to the building’s exterior, which has remained unchanged since the ’80s.
“It’s great to see the face of Sir Robert Helpmann slowly emerge behind the scaffolding,” Mr Morello said.
“It’s a fitting tribute for one of Mount Gambier’s most successful international artists.”
“I’m really pleased with the look of the zinc shingles – it’s a tremendous improvement on the old beige panels that have covered this venue for the past 35 years.”
The $1.3m refurbishment, a joint project between Mount Gambier City Council and Country Arts SA, was halted for two weeks during eisteddfod performances at the theatre.
“The crew is back on site this week and making good progress,” Mr Morello said.
“It was time for a change and this modern makeover has certainly breathed new life into an important community building.
“While the cladders have been randomly installing shingles on the fly tower, on the south western face they’re required to be a little more methodical and follow a design to ensure the shingles are placed in the right spot to create the silhouette.”
