Melbourne Recital Centre receives $2m for transformative new public arts space with breath-taking views of the expanding Melbourne Arts Precinct.

Private donors have partnered with the Victorian Government to invest $2 million in The Beacon, a new Melbourne Recital Centre destination.

Australia’s preeminent venue for live music and performance, Melbourne Recital Centre has announced a $2 million investment in developing a new multipurpose, flexible event space, to be named ‘The Peter and Ruth McMullin Beacon’. Uniquely positioned at the apex of the iconic arts institution, The Beacon will have uninterrupted views of the Melbourne skyline and aims to create an unforgettable new space in the heart of Melbourne’s Arts Precinct.

The transformative project has received $1 million in funding from the Victorian Government, matched with a generous $1 million philanthropic donation from longstanding supporters Peter McMullin AM and Ruth McMullin.

In strategic alignment with the $1.7b Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation, the $2 million investment marks a new chapter for Melbourne Recital Centre in its 15th year of operation, allowing the Centre to expand its capability to host performances, community events, corporate functions, and pre-show hospitality.

Melbourne Recital Centre CEO Sandra Willis expressed the Centre’s gratitude to the Victorian Government and the McMullins for their generous support. “The Beacon will be a real destination within what is already an incredibly vibrant place to visit. This extraordinary investment will allow us to significantly enhance Melbourne Recital Centre’s patron experience, engagement with the community, reach new audiences and contribute to the growing wider impact of the Melbourne Arts Precinct.”

Philanthropists Peter McMullin AM and Ruth McMullin said they were proud to support a project integral to strengthening Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene. “The role of philanthropy at times can be overlooked, however public and private partnerships are crucial to make magic happen. We are delighted to contribute to Melbourne Recital Centre’s future evolution through The Beacon project,” Mr McMullin said.

Having previously supported impactful cultural initiatives such as the Science Gallery Melbourne at Melbourne University and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the McMullins encourage others to contribute what they can to causes they care about. “Donating allows you to be part of something greater than yourself – a lasting legacy. No contribution is too small when you truly believe in a cause. Music and the arts profoundly affect people’s lives, and this gift will extend those transformative experiences to so many more.”

Minister for Creative Industries, the Hon. Colin Brooks MP said the project will provide another drawcard to Melbourne’s Arts Precinct.

“In the last 15 years, Melbourne Recital Centre has built a global reputation as one of the best places in the world to experience music. This project would not be possible without the incredible generosity of Peter and Ruth McMullin, and we are proud to partner with them to bring The Beacon to life. This space will add a new dimension to Melbourne Recital Centre’s program, creating a new hub for music lovers, a new view of Melbourne, and a dynamic place to showcase Victoria’s incredible creative talent.” Brooks said.

Construction of The Beacon is expected to commence in 2025 with the venue anticipated to open to the public in 2026.

ENDS

Media contact:
Claire O’Flynn at Communications Collective
oflynn@communicationscollective.com.au
0450 332 463

About Melbourne Recital Centre

Melbourne Recital Centre is an award-winning live music destination championing the best local and international artists and ensembles across two acoustically renowned performance spaces, Elisabeth Murdoch Hall and Primrose Potter Salon. As a preeminent venue for experiencing live music in Australia, Melbourne Recital Centre celebrates music in all its extraordinary forms, creating authentic and intimate live experiences that connect, inspire, and create wonder for Australia’s dynamic and evolving communities.