The planned extension and refurbishment will breathe new life into the significant heritage building, which features architecture of the early 1900s.
The Masonic Temple’s significance as a heritage site and the Freemasonry contribution to Dandenong City will be commemorated with the installation of an interpretive sign on the site. The Freemasons met in the structure until it closed in 1991.
Community Services Director of Greater Dandenong Council, Martin Fidler stressed the importance of acknowledging the site’s history prior to the start of refurbishment works later in the year, adding:
“It’s one of Dandenong’s most recognisable heritage buildings and it will be wonderful to see it bought back to life as the Greater Dandenong Gallery of Art.”
He said everyone will be able to access the new gallery, which will showcase touring and local artists and exhibitions while also providing a venue for creative events for the community. Exhibitions at venues such as this are often promoted by local marketing initiatives featuring informative brochure printing campaigns.
Works on the Greater Dandenong Gallery of Art are due to begin mid-year with completion expected 18 months later. The interpretive sign is one of a number being installed across Greater Dandenong to recognise local history.