Powerhouse Parramatta opens amid row over museum leader

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 05:20 · Archive

Sydney's Powerhouse Parramatta opens November 7 as its former chief executive faces misconduct investigation.

Powerhouse Parramatta opens on 7 November with five exhibitions and a sold-out program for more than 20,000 visitors across its launch weekend. The billion-dollar venue on the banks of the Parramatta River is Sydney's biggest cultural project since the Opera House and the first state-significant cultural institution for western Sydney, relocated from its long-standing base in Ultimo.

More than 3,000 objects were installed in a final dress rehearsal overseen by Arts Minister John Graham on Sunday, including an F1 Rocket, Apollo boilerplate and Space X debris. Entry is free for four shows and five works by British artist Es Devlin, who has worked with musical superstars Beyoncé and Adele.

The opening has been overshadowed by controversy surrounding Lisa Havilah, the museum's veteran chief executive who spearheaded the project for seven years. She stood aside in August as allegations over poor governance and procurement practices were investigated following a whistleblower complaint. A formal misconduct investigation is under way, though the full detail of the allegations has not been publicly disclosed.

A petition calling for her reinstatement has gathered nearly 700 signatures from artists, supporters and prominent figures including Lucy Turnbull, gallery owner Anna Schwartz, artist William Yang and former NSW arts minister Peter Collins. Kon Gouriotis, publisher of Artist Profile magazine who started the petition, has worked with Ms Havilah for decades.

How it is being reported

• Final touches before launch of new cultural powerhouseThe countdown is on for the opening of Australia's newest cultural landmark as a cloud hangs over its long-time leader.The West Australian · 1 Nov, 05:03
• Final touches before launch of new cultural powerhouseThe countdown is on for the opening of Australia's newest cultural landmark as a cloud hangs over its long-time leader.Perth Now · 1 Nov, 05:03

In this story: Powerhouse Parramatta · Lisa Havilah · Sydney · Parramatta · Es Devlin · John Graham

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