The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is a new community exhibition space created through the refurbishment of the heritage listed former Council Chambers in Ballina. The $1 million transformation was architect designed and overseen by Ballina Shire Council’s Project & Contract Co-Ordinator.
Developed by Council in partnership with the community, the gallery provides a centre for the arts and crafts in the region, with four gallery spaces that can be rented for exhibitions and cultural activities, and a learning centre.
Since it opened in October 2007 over 4000 visitors have enjoyed the diverse program, which has included Indigenous visual arts, environmental projects such as the Wetlands Australia acquisitive prize, photography and local arts and crafts.
The community gallery is managed by a team of 80 volunteers. It fosters community wellbeing through sharing of culture and provides a social activity for the aged community who support the gallery as volunteers.