00:01After a $20.7 million refurbishment that took nearly five years, the Albert Hall, one of Launceston's most important heritage buildings, has officially reopened in time for spring.
00:14Thank you everybody for coming here on what is a pretty momentous day.
00:18We understand that the Albert Hall placed in such an iconic position here in City Park is something that is so not only historic and iconic to our community, but it is something that has needed and taken a little bit of time for the love and care required.
00:39So we're really lucky to be the custodians of such an iconic building.
00:43I think almost everyone catches their breath as they come in, they look up and they, you know, the most common feedback we've had is, I can't believe this is in Launceston.
00:54And I think that's something that this city is going to be really, really proud of.
00:58Speaking at the official ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, politicians and stakeholders made sure to touch on their personal connections to the hall.
01:07Last night I reached out to my family and I asked them what their fondest memories were of the Albert Hall.
01:13And it was a variety of things. My mum's favourite was when ACDC played here many years ago.
01:20For me it was my 2005 Newstead College Ball.
01:24You know, I think everyone here in Launceston has a piece of this hall in their heart.
01:28I remember driving past here when three young people's junior was held here at the Albert Hall.
01:33It is the heartbeat of Northern Tasmania. But it's also a reminder that we have to invest.
01:40How long have you been?
01:42I know.
01:44Originally built more than 130 years ago in 1891, the Albert Hall's revamp saw major upgrades to the buildings East Wing and the Great Hall.
01:52This has ushered the venue into a new era of modernity while also preserving its original heritage charm.
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