The new, modern home of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra is now taking shape right in the heart of Brisbane’s cultural precinct at Southbank, following today’s official sod turning.

Once completed in early 2012, it will be the country’s best-located symphony orchestra, co-located with the ABC’s new Brisbane headquarters and in close proximity to the City’s performing arts centre, gallery of modern art, art gallery and museum.

As Queensland’s largest performing arts company, the Orchestra plays a vital role in the State’s cultural life, giving over 100 live performances each year to more than 100,000 people.

The investment we’re making will give them the world class facilities they deserve.

The Queensland Orchestra will be relocating its 88 full-time musicians and 26 support staff to a state-of-the-art architecturally designed building housing several music rooms, an orchestral studio, recording studio, office space and more.

The $14 million facility is being funded from the Rudd Labor Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan ($9 million), with the balance coming from the Queensland Government ($3 million) and the fundraising activities being undertaken by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra itself ($2 million).

This project is what our Economic Stimulus Plan is all about. It will support jobs as the economy recovers from the biggest global downturn in 75 years while leaving a lasting legacy for the community.