IN 1962, after the closing of the Incinerator, the question was “what do we do with this structure”.
It was a structure that had served the city of Ipswich as a rubbish incinerator since the early 1930s.
Many years were spent researching options, during which time it became a haven for derelicts.
Ceramic roof tiles were smashed, windows broken and it became an unsafe playground for local children.
Unable to find a use for the building and unprepared to spend money on maintenance, the Ipswich City Council resolved to demolish it.
This decision did not go down well with groups such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Institute of Architects, who protested that the only Burley Griffin-designed building in Queensland should be preserved.
Public meetings, including a symposium chaired by architect Jim Birrell from the University of Queensland, were held.
The Council bent to public pressure and agreed not to demolish the building, provided it could be put to use, and the Ipswich branch of the Arts Council was granted a short-term lease.
ILT members pondered the question of whether and how the building could be converted.
And the rest as they say is history, history that now needs to be celebrated.
So now the Ipswich Little Theatre is seeking expressions of interest from artists, designers and makers to create a commemorative sculpture celebrating two significant milestones in its history.
This special piece will honour the rich creative history of ILT and the unique heritage of the beloved Incinerator Theatre.
This is a paid commission and artists interested in designing and producing the sculpture are invited to submit an expression of interest outlining their experience, ideas, and approach to the project.
EOIs can be sent to: [email protected].
