Local art projects given cash injection

Six local arts, culture and heritage projects look set to receive a cash injection of more than $30,000 thanks to this year’s Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grants.

Coordinated by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council in partnership with the Queensland Government, the program provides one-off, short term projects that offer professional arts, culture and heritage development opportunities.

Division 5 Councillor and Community Policy and Programs portfolio holder, Jenny McKay said the program is a highly successful partnership that supports professional artists and arts practitioners living on the Sunshine Coast.

“The program is designed to help local artists, and focuses on the development of quality art and arts practices throughout the region,” said Cr McKay. “Now in its 17th year, the grants ultimately benefit the whole community by offering creative and cultural opportunities for everyone to enjoy.”

Sunshine Coast Council’s Art and Heritage Manager, John Waldron acknowledged this year’s projects are diverse.

“The successful applicants include the delivery of art workshops for Sunshine Coast youth, a ‘Tree Line Community Art and Ecology’ initiative, and a 30 minute documentary about Peter Erdman who recorded events and people of Maleny since the mid 80s,” said Mr Waldron.

Almost $8000 was allocated to the production of a short feature film titled ‘Family Album’ for the Maleny Film Archival project, and almost $7000 was granted to build an artist collective through exhibitions, workshops and forum events at alternate venues such as shop fronts, halls, alleyways, and multi-story car parks.

The RADF is guided by six principles that ensure the funding is used in the best possible way. These principles include supporting: professional artists and artsworkers; locally determined arts and cultural priorities; regional arts development in Queensland; cultural activities not supported by other state government agencies; the participation of community members in arts development projects run by professional artists and artsworkers; and complementary federal arts funding.

Applications are assessed by a publicly elected committee against criteria based on guidelines set down by Arts Queensland.

For more information, contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 5420 8200.