Philip Smith, a retiring firefighter from Metropolitan Fire Brigade, has purchased a rundown Cheltenham warehouse he plans to use for realising his art dream.
After serving as a firefighter for almost 30 years, Moorabbin resident Smith has grand plans for this retirement - he wants to transform the old building, previously a bricklaying warehouse and button factory, into his dream art gallery and café. Smith reportedly paid $1.9m for the old warehouse on 14 Hamlet St, after the property passed in during an auction.
An event area and outdoor garden will be made available at the art gallery for events such as product launches. On the second level of the gallery, there will also be offices available for professional artists to rent as space to work.
According to Smith, he has been involved in art activities for almost five years, and has always been interested in creating a space to allow his family and the local community to be artistic.
Smith’s daughter, who used to work in graphic design, will join her father in the new art gallery as a jewellery maker. His son in law will also join the family team and bring in his woodworking art. His parents, Ross and Dot, will be honoured in the name of the art gallery cafe.
Smith has expressed his gratitude at having found a suitable warehouse to realise his ambition. The art gallery and café are anticipated to be open by mid-2018.
Location
3 / 658 South Rd
Moorabbin, VIC 3189
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Hours
Mon: 8:30 - 5:00
Tue: 8:30 - 5:00
Wed: 8:30 - 5:00
Thu: 8:30 - 5:00
Fri: 8:30 - 5:00
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed