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Church Giving Campaign

A VENUE FOR THE TRUE BELIEVERS

Geelong’s new home of live gigs has opened its doors, and it would not have been possible without the generosity of the Costa family and Geelong Art Centre’s philanthropic community.   

Church is a restored 1800s landmark on Ryrie Street, reimagined as an intimate venue dedicated to live performance in all its raw glory - gigs, comedy, theatre and dance.   

DEDICATED IN HONOUR OF PHILANTHROPIST AND LOCAL ICON KEVIN COSTA

The building has been named Kevin Costa Church in honour of the late Kevin Costa (1944–2022), one of Geelong’s most generous and dedicated community patrons. 

The acknowledgement pays homage to Kevin Costa's decades-long philanthropic commitment to the city he called home. Kevin was a much-loved and deeply respected leader in the community, contributing to many organisations, including as Founding Director and Chair of the St Joseph’s College Foundation, where he served for more than 20 years. His support extended to active roles in the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Anam Cara House Geelong, Gateways, Rice Village Aged Care and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Kevin always keenly supported Geelong Arts Centre and its contribution to the region’s creative community. 

“Kevin cared deeply about Geelong, its people and its future, so it is incredibly meaningful to see his name carried forward through a venue that will support local artists and bring the community together.”

Brad Costa, son of Kevin Costa
Rob Costa, Lorraine Costa and Brad Costa

As part of Geelong Arts Centre’s Church Redevelopment Project, the venue has undergone significant restoration and upgrade works, including structural improvements, acoustic treatment and a complete internal fit-out. These essential works will ensure Church serves the Geelong community for generations to come.   

Church delivers authentic experiences - high voltage sounds, sweat and unreserved emotions - but not at the expense of artists. With no upfront venue hire costs, and technical, production and marketing support backed by the team at Geelong Arts Centre, artists don’t put everything at risk to get on our stage.   

“Geelong Arts Centre has always appreciated and supported local music, and I am so proud they are taking this step to provide a permanent home for musicians and music lovers in Geelong”

Rach Brennan, Musician

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS

Thanks to the generous support of the Costa family and Geelong Arts Centre’s philanthropic community, fundraising efforts have generated more than $3 million in contributions. 

As Church opens its doors, we thank our community for their incredible support - we could not have reached this milestone without you.   

OUR DONORS

Church Giving Campaign Patrons  

  • Robert and Rita Costa   

  
Capital & Church Giving Campaign Donors 

  • Lesley Alway & Paul Hewison   
  •  Michael & Roslyn Betts    
  • Suzanne Bozorth-Baines  
  • John Bugg   
  • Elaine Carbines AM   
  • Sue Clark   
  • Anthony Costa Foundation  
  • Barry Fagg OAM & Jan Fagg   
  • Keith Fagg OAM & Heather Fagg   
  • Dianne & David Fitzgerald  
  • John Fitzgerald    
  • Paul Franze    
  • Ray & Sue Frost and Family  
  • Catherine Gray   
  • Brendan & Michelle Heagney  
  • Frank Herd OAM & Susie Herd   
  • Rhys Holden & Lucy Goleby   
  • Sue Hunt AM   
  • Ross A Illingworth   
  • Katya Johanson   
  • Dr Srechko Kontelj OAM & Paula Kontelj OAM   
  • Rupert Myer AO & Annabel Myer  
  • John O’Rourke  
  • Geoff Saunders & Chris Saunders   
  • Lyndsay & David Sharp  
  • Margot Smith  
  • Geoff Street & Prue Street  
  • Matthew & Min Sun   
  • Monica Tullin & Peter Tullin   
  • Joel & David Walton-McGuinness  
  • Peter Yates AM & Susan Yates   

*Listed in alphabetical order   
 

Corporate Donors  

  • Community Bank Lara District   
  • GH Commercial  
  • Harwood Andrews  
  • Kings Funerals  
  • Moore Australia  
  • Plenary  
  • Sailors Rest   
  • QA Electrical Team  

*Listed in alphabetical order  

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