The Newport Substation, established over a century ago to convert power for Melbourne’s electric trains, was constructed between 1915 and 1916.
Built in a striking neoclassical brick design, it housed three massive rotary converters and began operation in 1920 when electric services extended to Williamstown. For nearly five decades it remained a vital part of the local network until superseded by newer facilities in the 1960s.
After a brief stint as the railway’s upholstery workshop, the building was abandoned and fell into disrepair but in 1996, local residents rallied to breathe new life into the building, envisioning a vibrant space dedicated to the arts. After securing a long-term lease, restoration began in 2001. By 2008, it reopened as the Hobsons Bay Community Arts Centre, later rebranded as The Substation. Today, The Substation is a prominent venue for contemporary and experimental arts. This transformation, from industrial powerhouse to vibrant artistic hub, exemplifies the power of adaptive reuse and its role in fostering community engagement.
