In 1999 the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (“BMEC” for short) was built on the basis of the Bathurst War Memorial Hall constructed in 1965. The venue contains a number of different spaces and is in constant use.

The population of Bathurst is approximately 37,000 but we draw an audience from up to four hours away which increases the catchment. Programming is quite broad and includes a Subscription Season, Program for Young People and Families and Local Stages program which aims to develop local professional performing arts practice.

BMEC has a cultural cooperation agreement with the local university and TAFE which adds a particularly valuable dimension to the range of events that are possible. This relationship has led to development of Catapult, a biennial festival of Circus and Physical Theatre which is quickly developing a national and international profile.