The Substation

The SUBSTATION is a not-for-profit multi arts centre located in a 100-year-old repurposed, industrial building.

The SUBSTATION presents an annual curated program of creative development, residencies and presentation. Engaging with artists from across artistic disciplines, working in non-traditional modes and across art-forms, The SUBSTATION provides the opportunity for artists and audiences to connect with our unique space and the distinctive location of Newport.

Reflecting the broader history of Melbourne’s inner west, we encourage artists to engage with our post-industrial space where we foster a culture of interconnectedness, collaboration and independence, and where we value new ideas, imagination and difference.

 

History

Newport is one of the oldest substations in the metropolitan systems, and also one of the largest, comparable to the North Fitzroy substation and slightly smaller than the Newmarket substation. It displays an exceptionally high level of integrity not seen in any other extant examples of this substation design, and although much of the original equipment has been removed or vandalised, the building is highly demonstrative of early twentieth century power generating practices. The building has strong visual and functional associations with the nearby Newport railway workshops, established in 1882.

The building has strong associations with the inauguration of electric services, due to its construction during the first phase of the scheme. It is also important for its associations with the engineering firm Merz and MacLellan, who designed the electrification scheme as well as the early substations in association with the VR Way and Works Branch. Its construction by the Victorian Railways sets the building apart from contemporary Railways structures built under contract.

To find out more on The Substation, visit their website www.thesubstation.org.au