An innovative new collaboration will see increased support for artists in the Wide Bay and Burnett
In a first of its kind, three regional councils in the Wide Bay and Burnett have coinvested to extend arts services across the region.
Partnering with CQ University, this innovative approach will see South Burnett, Bundaberg and Fraser Coast Regional Council’s work strategically together to help strengthen the arts industry in the Wide Bay and Burnett.
“This collaborative project could not have come at a better time,” said Central Queensland Regional Arts Services Network Project Officer Trudie Leigo, who will be tasked with delivering the project.
“Artists, like so many small businesses have been greatly impacted by COVID-19.”
“This project focuses on building the skills of artists and artworkers, as well as increasing opportunities for communities across the Wide Bay and Burnett.”
“As we recover from the pandemic, we will be bringing people back together again, to learn, to get hands on and to support each other.”
This seven-month long project will see the Central Queensland Regional Arts Network lead a series of activities and events across the Wide Bay and Burnett. Delivering workshops and forums, as well as networking and festival events.
Ms Leigo will also be offering by appointment advice sessions to artists and arts workers to help get their projects and ideas off the ground.
“Between the three councils we have contributed almost $80,000 to this collaborative project,” said South Burnett Regional Council’s Cr Danita Potter.
“It’s in times of adversity that we have to think differently, act courageously and work strategically.”
“We believe by working together we can achieve better opportunities for our artists and our communities.”
The project will run from December 2020 through to June 2021.
The project has been made possible with the support of the Queensland State Government through Arts Queensland, who have supported the innovative project through the Regional Arts Services Network and the Regional Arts Development Fund. The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and South Burnett Regional Council, Fraser Coast Regional Council and Bundaberg Regional Council.
For more information contact:
Trudie Leigo Regional Arts Project Officer
07 4150 7736 or 0430 807 960
