Regional arts boosted by new funding
The arts do not just happen – which is why the State Government is making a cash splash of $1.6 million to support the regions.
A new Regional Community Arts Program will deliver more than $1.6 million across Queensland.
Twenty-nine community-led arts organisations and groups will benefit from the State Government program, which will also recognise and support the contribution of volunteers in the delivery of arts and cultural activities across Queensland.
The idea that arts and culture occur only in larger cities isn’t the case in Queensland, where small communities have developed their own arts and cultural life – and that’s something worth supporting.
The new funding program will prioritise community-led groups and organisations in regional Queensland as part of Queensland’s Time to Shine, a 10-year strategy to boost the state’s arts scene.
The Regional Community Arts Program will provide funding for quality arts and culture activities that mostly rely on volunteers and are not-for-profit. The $1.6 million program will provide 17 organisations with two-year core funding certainty of up to $50,000 per year to help employ paid staff and cover running costs, while 12 organisations will receive up to $20,000 for one-year arts projects.
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Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek says the new funding program was a priority.
“Communities from Biloela, Charleville, Central Queensland, Gold Coast, Gympie, Mt Isa, South Burnett, Sunshine Coast, Townsville and Toowoomba are among those that will benefit from the Regional Community Arts Program,” he says.
“This investment will assist a wide range of community-based groups including orchestras, musicians, singers, dancers, arts, music festivals, workshops and exhibitions. Dedicated volunteers contribute significant time and effort to regional arts organisations, and this funding will provide them with much needed support, as they look to attract wider audiences.”
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Successful recipient Charleville Dance House has received core funding of $100,000 over two years, which the organisation’s treasurer Michelle Ebsworth says will provide a phenomenal boost to the organisation.
“This funding allows us to focus on building and supporting our communities, offering high-quality dance lessons that encourage and inspire, and showcasing skills in a safe and inclusive environment,” Ebsworth says.
“It ensures the long-term sustainability of our volunteer-run organisation, which means we can continue to nurture future talent and help dancers in South-West Queensland to foster a love for the performing arts.”
The Toowoomba Concert Orchestra has received $23,248 in core funding over two years, enabling it to continue offering quality musical performances, collaboration and community engagement.
Toowoomba Concert Orchestra president Claire Nicholls says the RCAP grant would enable the organisation to continue enriching the cultural life of the region.
“This funding affirms our belief in the value of regional artists and audiences and empowers us to continue developing local musicians while engaging diverse communities through the joy of orchestral music,” she says.
“The Toowoomba Concert Orchestra can now confidently expand its work, knowing that vibrant, inclusive musicmaking will be performed in our region and beyond for years to come.”
For more information about RCAP and to view recipients visit:
arts.qld.gov.au/news/news-articles/regional-community-arts-program-recipients-announced
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