More than $12 000 has been allocated to local arts and cultural projects under the Regional Arts Development Fund so far this financial year.
The funding is a partnership between state and local governments that invests in quality arts and cultural experiences across Queensland.
Five projects have been approved to date out of the seven applications submitted for the RADF 2016/17 program.
The Central Highlands Writers Group received $1750 for a writing workshop with Sandy Curtis, $2130 was allocated to the Bauhinia Shire Historical Society to develop and preserve the history of Central Highlands businesses and the Comet School of Arts secured $2055 to engage a professional graphic artist to promote significant historical sites.
High school student Alex Parlato also received $1218 to take part in a professional development program at the Gold Coast and another $5000 was approved for Animating Spaces to Create Welcoming Places, a series of interactive art events across the region.
Council is currently animating the Emerald Art Gallery, in line with this program, to engage with the community to develop a liveability strategy for the region.
Mayor Cr Kerry Hayes congratulated the successful applicants and encouraged other art and cultural groups or individuals to apply for the next round.
‘Council is committed to growing our local arts and cultural sector and improving the opportunities available to people to participate in and experience these activities,’ he said.
‘Well done to all our recipients. I look forward to seeing even more of our local arts and cultural groups take advantage of this great funding in the rounds to come.’
Queensland Premier and Arts Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) delivered on the Queensland Government’s commitment to foster diverse and inclusive communities, grow strong regions and provide training, education, and employment opportunities for Queenslanders.
‘The Queensland Government is contributing $2.08 million to leverage up to $1.92 million from local councils resulting in up to $4 million available to support arts and cultural activities throughout the state in 2016–17,’ said the Premier.
‘This funding promotes the role and value of arts, culture and heritage as key drivers of inclusive communities and strong regions and ensures Queenslanders can engage with arts locally,’ she said.
‘Each year around 500,000 people are involved in RADF projects as practitioners, participants or audience members.’