Barnsey to Wiggles: venue’s 20 years in spotlight
For two decades, Venue 114 has been the Sunshine Coast’s stage for memories that last a lifetime.
These include epic nights with some of the nation’s best-loved artists such as Amy Shark, Jimmy Barnes, Bernard Fanning and Hilltop Hoods.
Younger audiences have enjoyed the wonder of The Wiggles, and charities, including Wishlist, STEMM, SunnyKids and Bloomhill Cancer Care, and those they support, have benefitted from many community fundraisers hosted there.
Venue 114, formerly known as Lake Kawana Community Centre, is celebrating a remarkable 20 years as the Sunshine Coast’s premier community venue.
Since opening its doors on 5 November 2005, it has welcomed up to 80,000 patrons annually and hosted over 800 events each year as families cheered, friends danced and our community came together to support causes close to our hearts.
A lasting legacy
Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said Venue 114’s enduring success was a testament to the power of community spaces.
“For two decades, Venue 114 has been more than just a building, it’s been a gathering place for our region’s community celebrating many important moments,” Cr Law said.
“From milestone celebrations to grassroots fundraisers, this venue has brought people together, fostered creativity and strengthened the bonds that make our community so special.
“Venue 114’s long-term impact is seen in the connections it fosters and opportunities it creates for people of all ages.
“It stands as a reflection to Council’s commitment to a vibrant, inclusive Sunshine Coast, where we’re connecting and engaging with our communities to build a better future for everyone.”
Live music magic
Over the past two decades, Venue 114 has played host to an extraordinary array of events.
Legendary music gigs have filled the halls with energy, featuring artists like Xavier Rudd, Missy Higgins, Guy Sebastian, Boy and Bear, Powderfinger and many more.
For many, these concerts were a first taste of live music magic, no need to travel to Brisbane when world-class talent performed right here at home.
A space that evolves with its community
Venue 114’s journey has been one of transformation and adaptability.
The 2018 rebrand brought a fresh identity, vibrant murals by local artists, and a renewed focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
This transformation brought a bold, contemporary identity, attracting new audiences and infusing the space with vibrant mural artworks by local artists Fuzeillear, David Houghton and EJ Zyla.
The venue’s versatility, including 15 separate spaces across three levels, with two performance stages and lake views, has enabled it to serve as everything from a concert hall to an emergency evacuation centre.
Venue 114’s commitment to community goes far beyond entertainment.
The venue has proudly supported countless not-for-profit fundraisers, helping organisations like, End ED, STEPS, IFYS, Coast 2 Bay and many more, to raise vital funds and awareness.
Looking forward
As Venue 114 celebrates this milestone, it stands ready for the next chapter: continuing to elevate events, invite inclusivity and connect community.
With the installation of the Lake Kawana Footbridge, rapid growth in surrounding commercial and residential precincts, easy access via future transport corridors and continuity of diverse events, the future promises to be just as inspiring.
Thank you, Sunshine Coast
“To everyone who has been part of Venue 114’s story, patrons, performers, partners and the passionate community, thank you for making this venue a place where everyone belongs,” Cr Law said.
In photos: celebrating 20 years at Venue 114
