Alexandrina Council has launched a new business pop-up program in the recently renovated Chart Room, one of the first elements of the broader Goolwa Wharf Precinct revitalisation to be completed. 

"We are thrilled that the Chart Room, such an iconic building within the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, has now been restored and will be brought back to life by a unique pilot program to activate Alexandrina’s historic spaces,” says Mayor Keith Parkes. 

The Chart Room was built for Curson & Hooker's Goolwa Iron Works and Patent Slip, dating back to 1853. A patent slip is a mechanism for supporting a vessel out of the water via a ‘cradle’, giving shipwrights the opportunity to ensure it’s in tip top condition for future voyages. 

Now, the new pop-up program being piloted at the Chart Room aims to use the space to cradle fledgling businesses, setting them up for future success. 

Alexandrina Council will offer the Chart Room to local businesses and start-ups as a flexible and accessible short-term space, enabling them to test and showcase their goods and services, and plan future strategies. 

The space also lends itself to hosting events, with options for mobile food vending, music, entertainment and outdoor dining, complementing Goolwa’s tourism offerings and waterfront experience. 

“The pop-up program is designed to be a win–win for the business and broader Goolwa community.” says Alexandrina Council Chief Executive Officer, Glenn Rappensberg. 

“We see it as a way to activate previously unused state heritage buildings to support new and emerging businesses to explore their ideas and concepts with minimal risk,”

“We also anticipate it will contribute to increased growth in the region’s tourism industry, encouraging visitors to explore the waterfront and surrounds, and adding to a general appreciation of the historical significance of the Goolwa township,” he said. 

The Chart Room is at the northern end of the Goolwa Wharf Precinct. 

Funding from the state government’s Regional Growth Fund and the council’s co-contribution has seen the historic building restored to its former glory, which is now accessible for all with ramp access. 

Other works included repointing of walls, upgrade of existing electrical infrastructure with new air conditioning, and construction of an external hardstand. 

The pop-up program was approved at Alexandrina Council’s meeting on 22 November, and expressions of interest are now sought from businesses wanting to use the space. 

It is proposed that the Chart Room will be available for use from one week to three month periods and the program will run for an initial 12-month period.