Central Pier is the most culturally significant waterfront development undertaken in Melbourne.

Corporate Events Australia (CEA) have recently been awarded the tender to develop Central Pier into a vibrant cultural, community and creative hub for all Melbournians. The new Central Pier is due to open in August 2007.

The heritage of Shed 9 and Shed 14 will be retained, accessed by scaled pedestrian spaces, with inner shells housing world-class entertainment venues, creative and cultural spaces such as a community hall and a tertiary-run student studio and gallery art space.

Shed 9

The studio and gallery space will be in Shed 9. CEA are engaged in partnership discussions with Victorian arts groups to exhibit student and emerging artist’s work. A further important space is the Community Hall, occupied by Spirituality Australia, a not-for-profit organisation that focuses on health, education and self-awareness. The space will introduce fitness programs, lifestyle schooling, seminars and other community events and programs.

Another distinctive addition to Central Pier will be the Micro Brewery, positioned at the east corner of Heritage Shed 9. CEA is currently receiving proposals to award the tender for the Micro Brewery; it will be a leading edge brewing operation hosting full brewing capacity and delivering premium “home-made” beers on tap. The Brewery will also provide in-house education to those interested in the making and science of beer. In addition, there will be authentic dishes within the dining section to complement the home made brews.

The famous Speigeltent (tent of mirrors) will be recreated on the western tip of Shed 9. With its long history as a cabaret and music salon, the Spiegeltent will create its very own dining and entertainment experience.

Alumbra, one of Melbourne’s most popular and alluring waterfront bars will reopen in April 2007 at the western end of Shed 9. With its distinctive Middle Eastern look and feel, the new Alumbra will retain its unique ornate carvings, designs and the gentle aroma of incense.

Other key tenants to add to the colourful culture of Central Pier will be the leading edge xsight photography studio, florist and café.

Shed 14

Shed 14 will be the new home for the successful Atlantic Group [V]. Atlantic Group have taken tenancy in Shed 14 and are relocating two of their existing business from South Wharf and introducing two new venues.

Central Pier will be the new benchmark in event and function spaces. Peninsula, a grand function venue seating up to 1200 guests, and Sketch, a more intimate space seating up to 170 guests will open for the first time in August 2007. Joining these two new venues on the water are the established venues relocating from South Wharf, Sumac and Atlantic

As a primary focus of celebrations, such as Australia Day and other key national events, Central Pier will become a unique and integral part of Melbourne’s popular culture.