Ernabella Arts: ‘Nganampa walka wiru’ (our work is beautiful)

6 September - 13 October, Gulgong

Ernabella Arts is a gallery and studio space based 440km south west of Alice Springs, near the Northern Territory/South Australian Border, with a focus on developing sustainable cultural heritage practices. The work produced from these studios includes batik, paintings, print making, ceramics, screen prints, carvers and basket making. This year Ernabella celebrate their 60th anniversary with the aim of producing a greater awareness of members’ talents. Director Cudgegong Gallery Lyn Cole travelled to Ernabella in June to select works for the show and is excited to be presenting such a range of works across these specialist mediums. Accompanying the exhibition will be an artists’ demonstration by two of the Ernabella artists. At Cudgegong Gallery 102 Herbert St. Tel 02 6374 1630 Website www.cudgegonggallery.com.au

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Milli, Jack & the Dancing Cat

11 - 12 September, Albury
15 - 16 September, Wagga Wagga
18 - 19 September, Griffith
22 - 24 September, Bathurst

Monkey Baa Theatre for Young People presents the return of Milli, Jack and the Dancing Cat to NSW following its extensive Australian tour. Milli, a solitary shoemaker, has a special gift, fixing things. She can take a thing that is a nothing and make it a something. But people in the town only want ordinary, practical things. Milli spends her days making plain ordinary shoes. Night after night Milli dreams that she is brave enough to show everyone what she can really do. But each day is the same, until one morning she meets a couple of free spirits, Jack and the Dancing Cat. Milli, Jack and the Dancing Cat is an engaging musical adapted from the book by Stephen Michael King focusing on the joy of creativity, being brave and the importance of friendship. Booking and venue details online. Website www.monkeybaa.com.au

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Quicks for July and August

Regional Arts NSW is pleased to announce eight new projects funded through the Quick Response grant program in July and August.  Once again, the Quick Response program strongly supported individual artists and their work within regional communities with six of the eight grants approved going towards their professional development. The Quick Response Grants program provides assistance for regional NSW artists, arts organisations and communities to take advantage of professional and project development opportunities that present themselves at short notice.  The funds are provided through the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund which is administered by Regional Arts NSW in NSW.

• Read the full details here

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Arts NSW funding guidelines out for 2009

Following a recent review of the Cultural Grants Program a new Arts Funding Program has been introduced for 2009 funding. The Arts Funding Program replaces the Cultural Grants Program and promotes greater participation in the arts and cultural activity by supporting organisations and venues to deliver performances or exhibitions, business or audience development projects and arts and cultural infrastructure and activities for people in NSW. Applicants are required to submit a completed application form for either Program funding or Project funding, including requested attachments, certification and supporting material. For application details, see the 'grants' section below, and the Arts NSW website. Applications close 10 October 2008.

• Download the 2009 Arts Funding Program Guidelines here [PDF]

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Wilcannia Arts Centre hosts final artist for 2008

The Wilcannia Arts Centre is looking forward to another infusion of creative energies as they prepare for the third artist in residence for 2008, Pamela Houghton Jones. Pamela's Textile, Fibre and Stitch Art Residency commenced on 25 August and continues until 12 September. Pamela’s background is in contemporary visual art and design, over time moving across various mediums of glass, paint, fibre, papier-mache, and finally returning to the craft of hand stitch. “I am Iooking forward to all visitors at the art centre, to observe and discuss my art making process, including hand dying of fabrics, stitching techniques and history of the stitching techniques," says Pamela. The three-year program is delivered through a partnership with West Darling Arts, Wilcannia Arts and Central Darling Shire Council.

• Contact Sue Reynolds for information on the residencies Tel 0429 985 703
  This project was supported with a grant from the Regional Arts Fund (RAF)

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New face at Grafton Regional Gallery

Grafton Regional Gallery welcome a new staff member. Bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, Angela de Martino Rosaroll has taken over as the Assistant Curator at the Grafton Regional Gallery while Bree Adams is on maternity leave. Angela started at the Gallery in early July after moving to the area from Victoria where she held the roles of Education Officer and Curatorial Assistant at the Horsham Regional Art Gallery. Born in NSW, Angela has Degree in Visual Arts from the University of Western Sydney. She moved to Victoria ten years ago to continue studies with a degree in Art History from La Trobe University. “I loved studying the arts so much that I decided to undertake a Masters in Art Curatorship at Melbourne University which I completed in 2006.” Angela has worked in several galleries in NSW and Victoria.

• Website www.graftongallery.nsw.gov.au

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'two eight two eight' wins award

Outback Arts member, two eight two eight Gulargambone won another award on 26 July at the 2008 Countrylink Inland NSW Tourism Awards in Parkes. The community tourism project took out the specialised tourism services category at the awards. Accepting the award on behalf of the more than 50 community volunteers was Outback Arts Vice Chair, Steve Baldwin who is a volunteer cook and committee member at the project.  Also present was the Regional Arts Development Officer for the neighbouring Orana Arts region, Merryn Spencer, who is a volunteer barista at the project and a Central NSW Tourism board member. The arts play a significant role in the business with a range of locally made craft items and art for sale and regular movie nights.  In 2008 they received accreditation as a gallery and a new exhibition and prize is to be held in September. two eight two eight is run by volunteers and all profits are invested back into the community. 

• Read more here

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SBS TV deal for Northern Rivers filmmaker

The winner of the 2007 Northern Rivers Screenworks 'Life’s a Pitch' filmmaking competition, Kamahl Druesne, has secured a broadcast deal with SBS television. His winning entry will be produced as a four-part documentary series under the working title of A Camel Odyssey. Mr Druesne, executive producer Susan McKinnon and producer Richard Mordaunt attracted strong interest from broadcasters at the Australian International Documentary Conference’s Documart in Perth in February. Mr Druesne’s feature-length documentary focuses on five international travellers who were branded camel killers by the BBC and forced into hiding in India’s Rajasthani desert. The NSW Department of State and Regional Development funds the Life’s a Pitch competition, and supports Northern Rivers Screenworks. Screenworks is preparing for the 2008 Life’s a Pitch competition. Entries open on September 22 and close on October 6, 2008. Finalists will pitch their films to a panel of film industry experts to win prizes, including a travel grant to assist in attending film markets.

• For more information, contact Northern Rivers Screenworks Tel 02 6687 1599

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National review of visual education released

A new report, First We See: The National Review of Visual Education provides a vision for the visual education of Australian students into the future. The report is the result of a two-year review of Australia’s visual education that examined existing programs and good practice from across the education system, a framework for the future of visual education and four key recommendations. First We See: The National Review of Visual Education was jointly released by the Australia Council for the Arts and the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations in cooperation with the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. It was written by Professor Diana Davis from the Australian National University.

• Download from the Australia Council website here

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Wallerawang Station becomes arts hub

The heritage listed Wallerawang Railway Station is about to get a new lease of life. Local photographer Andrew Wilson and his partner, florist, Robin Ruecroft are set to begin the transformation of the neglected Victorian‐era Wallerawang station into a lively hub where local artists can promote and display their work in the proposed gallery and coffee shop. As well as the gallery, the station will house retail outlets for Robin’s floral creations, as well as antiques and old‐fashioned lollies. It will link with other initiatives such as the Platypus Trail which celebrates Charles Darwin’s visit to Wallerawang in 1836. The refitting of the 1870s building, unused for over 40 years, is an opportunity to bring an historic gem back to life and attract new businesses and people to Wallerawang. “There are a huge number of talented local artists, who really don’t have an established location to display and sell their work. The station will address that.” Said Wilson.

• Contact Robin & Andrew, Tel 02 6355 1839

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Play for Life's gift of guitars

Dunedoo’s St. Michael’s school students recently received a grant from Music. Play for Life to purchase 10 brand new guitars. Promising musicians can now take home their very own instrument to practice their craft. “St. Michael’s school is the first independent school to join the program,” says Music. Play for Life Campaign Director Tina Broad. “We were persuaded by the case made on the school’s behalf by the Catholic Education Office in Bathurst, which  highlighted the devastating impact of the drought on many local families. The increased hardship makes it extra difficult for some children to access musical instruments.” Music. Play for Life is a grassroots campaign that aims to find creative ways in which to engage people with music.

• Further details on Play for Life here

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Play Now Act Now finalists announced

Metro Screen and NSW Health are pleased to announce the finalists of the 2008 Play Now Act Now Creative Competition. Play Now Act Now is a film, graphic design and writing competition for young people aged 16 to 25 in NSW. Play Now Act Now is a health education initiative that invites young people to produce creative resources focussing on issues associated with the usage of alcohol and other drugs eg health, social, political, moral or ethical issues. The finalists will be showcased and the winners announced at the Award Presentation on 4 September at the Tom Mann Theatre, 136 Chalmers St, Surry Hills. Entry to the Award Presentation is free and it is open to the general public.

• Contact Katrina Douglas, Project Manager Tel 02 9361 5318 Email k.douglas@metroscreen.org.au

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Inaugural Paul Wenz writers in residence announced

Two regionally-based authors, one from France and the other from Australia, will swap places in 2009 as part of a unique cultural exchange to build upon the literary legacy left by French-Australian writer Paul Wenz, President of the recently incorporated Paul
Wenz Society. The selected writers are French novelist and essayist Frederic Chef, from Reims, capital of the Champagne-Ardenne region of France where Wenz was born, and Australian novelistand essayist Merrill Findlay who is based in Forbes, the small Australian town in central New South Wales where Wenz died and is buried. Their month-long residences will coincide with the 140th anniversary of Wenz’s birth in 1869, and the 70th anniversary of his death in 1939.

• Contact Sabine Pierard Tel 02 9958 5008 Email sabinepierard@yahoo.com.au

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Prime Minister's Literary Awards winners' short list

The Prime Minister, the Hon Kevin Rudd MP, will announce the winners of the 2008 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards for Fiction and Non-Fiction at an evening event to be held in the Mural Hall at Parliament House on 12 September 2008. Announcing the date for the awards’ presentation, Arts Minister Peter Garrett said that the 14 shortlisted authors had presented the two judging panels with very difficult choices. “After an exhausting but rewarding process the judging panels have recommended to the Prime Minister two short-lists of outstanding breadth and depth,” he said. The short list for fiction is: Burning In, Mireille Juchau; El Dorado, Dorothy Porter; Jamaica: A novel, Malcolm Knox; Sorry, Gail Jones; The Complete Stories, David Malouf; The Widow and Her Hero, Tom Keneally and The Zookeeper's War, Steven Conte. The short list for non-fiction is: A History of Queensland, Raymond Evans; Cultural Amnesia: Notes in the Margin of My Time, Clive James; My Life as a Traitor, Zarah Ghahramani with Robert Hillman; Napoleon: The Path to Power, 1769-1799, Philip Dwyer; Ochre and Rust: Artefacts and Encounters on Australian Frontiers, Philip Jones; Shakespeare's Wife, Germaine Greer and Vietnam: The Australian War, Paul Ham.

• Read the media release here

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Chooky Dancers take to the desert sands at art at the heart

The sounds of Zorba the Greek will fill the Central Australian night sky as the famous Chooky dancers take to the desert sands at Regional Arts Australia’s formal conference dinner for art at the heart, which opens in Alice Springs in early October. “The Chooky Dancers became an international hit when their unique version of Zorba was broadcast on YouTube,” says the President of Regional Arts Australia, Suzie Haslehurst. “Almost a million people have viewed them on the net. They come from Elcho Island off the coast of Arnhem Land and normally perform traditional dance, but their performance of Zorba is really clever and entertaining.” art at the heart opens at sunset in Alice Springs on Thursday 2 October and the conference dinner on Saturday 4 October takes place under the stars at the historic Telegraph Station, where the Chooky Dancers are just one act in a line-up of entertainment that reflects the vibrant performing arts scene of Alice Springs and the Northern Territory.

• For more conference highlights or to register visit the website here

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Focus on Taralga - art show workshops

June 2008, Taralga

Workshops were held for children, teenagers and adults in painting, sculpture and puppet making as part of the Taralga Art Show in June. The project involved local adults and children in making art and craft. The puppet making workshop was a hit, with many local children participating. The workshops gave many peope an opportunity to be actively involved in the annual art show, increased awareness and appreciation of art and craft, and increased skills and taught new techniques to the participants. The participants showed an obvious enjoyment in the workshops and voiced their appreciation. The workshops were a huge success. The project was organised through Taralga Progress Association Tel 02 4840 6101

This project was supported with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program (CASP)

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Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) survey of museums

As part of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) commitment to providing statistical information on a range of service industries in Australia, it is conducting a survey of museums in respect of the 2007-08 financial year. The last survey of this type was conducted for the 2003-04 financial year, with the results published as 8560.0 - Museums, Australia, 2003-04 which can be found online and is downloadable in full from the ABS website. The 2007-08 survey questionnaire will be despatched to a sample of museums and galleries across Australia in August 2008. The ABS will be collecting data about museum and gallery collections and admissions, as well as financial data which should be readily available from standard end of year accounts. In addition, museums/galleries will be asked about the number, gender and occupation of persons employed at the end of June 2008.

• View the survey report here

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Table Manners

Until 6 September, Goulburn

Lieder Youth Theatre present Table Manners, part 2 of the trilogy The Norman Conquests by Alan Aykbourn. Two years ago director Judith Boyd directed Round and Round the Garden, which was a great success, and she was asked by numerous people to do another one of the trilogy. It has almost the same cast and, if anything, is even funnier than the first. Martin Sanders plays Norman with Fiona Churchill his long-suffering wife Ruth. David Rayner and Pauline Mullen are again playing husband and wife team Reg and Sarah and the ensemble is completed with Greg Seckold playing Tom the wet vet and Michelle McAleer his frustrated companion Annie. Wednesday, Friday & Saturday nights at 8pm. Tickets $18/$13/$10. Bookings at Michael Connolly Chemist, 312 Auburn St Goulburn, or online. Tel 02 4821 5066 Website www.liedertheatre.com

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Double

Until 26 October, Wagga Wagga

Thirteen major printmakers from across Australia have contributed to the latest exhibition on show at Wagga Wagga Art Gallery’s Margaret Carnegie Gallery, Double. Each artist was invited to make a pair of prints on the theme of ‘double’, and the results are a double vision of contemporary printmaking practice. Rona Green, artist and curator, has put Double together and also features in the exhibition. Artists who have participated in Double also include Raymond Arnold, Andrew Gunnell, Gregory Harrison, Michael Kempson, Deborah Klein, Rebecca Mayo, John Ryrie, Olga Sankey, Heather Shimmen, Sophia Szilagyi, Janet Tavener and Joel Wolter. At Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, Civic Centre, Wagga Wagga. Tel 02 6926 9111

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Reggae Allstars

3 September, Byron Bay

Rough voiced DJ Chaka Demus and smooth toned singer Pliers are one of the most successful duos in the history of Jamaican music. Soulful enough to cross over to mainstream charts, but still tough enough to draw gunshots back in Kingston, Chaka Demus and Pliers have been a dancehall favourite since the early 90’s. Now they bring their unique sound to Byron Bay for the first time in well over a decade. From the new school of Reggae, Jah Mason currently ranks as one of the highest rated young deejays to emerge from the island of Jamaica. Scoring number one hits & continuing to reach the top of the Reggae charts, his uplifting voice is an answer to the people’s cry for more positivity in Dancehall and Reggae music today. E-Saw, Untouchable Sound System, Dolla Mix & locals Blaze Fire Sounds (Raz bin Sam & Krazy Dayv) will also be performing on the night. Presented by Ku Promotions. At Hotel Great Northern, 8.30pm. Tickets $35/$30 Tel 1300 762 545

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Broken Hill Poetry Festival

4 - 7 September, Broken Hill

Broken Hill Regional Writers Centre present this year’s jam packed program which includes something for everybody: from book launches to spoken word, the program demonstrates the exciting versatility and accessible range of the poetic art form in today’s society. There will be a festival opening luncheon and book launch of Rooku Anthology Angles of a broken hill; Dangerous Spoken Word Slam Workshop covering performance and public speaking techniques, confidence-building, how to get started as a spoken word performer, and how to find your own unique poetic 'voice'; a poetry masterclass; and poetry in the park. Register at the Broken Hill City Library for all events. Blende St, Broken Hill. Email admin@bhlibrary.org.au

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Fluid II

5 - 22 September, Tanja

An exhibition of knitwear by Zlatka Viola Sirakova. Exploring the landscape of the body with a passion for creating original structural forms, Zlatka makes garments that are knitted shapes linked together.  Shapes are structured internally as well as on their edges. As the structure comes from within the fabric, a continuous stream ofthreads eliminates most seams and creates a garment that flows with and over the body, making an experience of comfort for the wearer. At  Narek Galleries, Old Tanja Church 1140 Bermagui Road. Tel 02 6494 0112 Website www.narekgalleries.com

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David Middlebrook: Desert Places

5 September - 13 October, Gulgong

David Middlebrook’s work will marvel and entice audiences in a visual feast for the senses this spring. Middlebrook is known as a key Australian landscape painter with a career lasting over twenty years. Highlights include twenty five solo exhibitions along the east coast of Australia. His work is held in regional, public and private collections both in Australia and overseas. In 2006 he was awarded a PhD from the University of Newcastle for his studies pertaining to Australian Landscape painting. His work is influenced by Chinese and European landscape painting history. His interpretations of horizons with the tone, colour and compositional exploration of the desert landscapes will bring a vibrancy and energy complimenting the indigenous works from Ernabella. At Cudgegong Gallery, 102 Herbert St. Tel 02 6374 1630 Website www.cudgegonggallery.com.au

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Off the Beaten Track

7 September, Tumut
8 September, Goulburn
9 September, Parkes

'Brains from the Bush: creativity and culture in rural and regional New South Wales, from Miles Franklin to Marie Bashir.' This lecture will take a look at the changing circumstances and prospects for 'unusual and gifted' people in rural and regional New South Wales over the past century or so. Which factors have encouraged and which discouraged their aspirations? How are such people faring now? What blockages might there still be? These and other issues will be addressed through the prism of biography and autobiography, including something from the lecturer's own background. Presented by Professor Emerita Jill Roe AO, President of the History Council of NSW Refreshments will be served. More information online. Website www.historycouncilnsw.org.au

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Scone Art Prize Title

12 - 21 September, Scone

This is always an exciting event with art works from all over the state and interstate. A selection of oil paintings, acrylics, watercolours, drawing, pastels and miniatures, sculptures and ceramics will be on display. The exhibition will be held in the old catholic church at the Scone Arts & Crafts Centre, with its high walls as a venue to display the exhibition. A photographic prize will also be on display. Opening night starts at 6pm on 12 September with presentations during the evening. The guest speaker will be Ms Elizabeth Rogers, CEO of Regional Arts NSW, and the prize will be judged by Mr Ken Strong, well known artist and judge. Contact Arts Upper Hunter Tel 02 4992 1033 Email rado@artsupperhunter.com.au

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Kevin Pye 'telling tales'

13 September, Mudgee

Join celebrated Mudgee poet and author Kevin Pye as he entertains with bush poetry and yarns. An experience not to be missed ‐ fun and relaxing with wine tasting and entertainment. There will be two sessions of 'telling tales' at 12.30pm and 3pm, each going for approximately 40 minutes. Kevin recently won the poetry slam in Orange with his performance of His Mother’s Touch. At Pieter van Gent Winery, 141 Blacksprings Road. Tel 02 6373 3030

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The Turning Wave - festival of Irish & Australian music

17 - 21 September, Gundagai

This year the festival will comprise theatre, a Celtic market place with outdoor marquee performances, street smarts, music, song and dance events, master classes, demonstrations, workshops & sessions, a busking competition and a variety of other entertainment. For five days the festival will showcase some of the country's most celebrated musicians, bands, singer/songwriters, poets, storytellers, raconteurs and dance troupes, in an exciting and diverse program. The Festival caters for genuine music lovers, while providing a platform for musicians and performers to demonstrate their talents. Concerts and festival events take place in a number of venues throughout the town and the festival is already renowned for providing festival-goers the opportunity to enjoy performances in quiet, friendly and intimate settings. Tickets: Weekend $75, day/night $25-$50. Tel 02 9489 5786 Website www.turningwave.org.au

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National Youth Circus Day & exhibition

18 September, Bathurst

Celebrating National Circus Day with an exhibition and sale of photos from Catapult 2007, in the lead up to the 2009 Catapult Festival. Catapult is a biennial festival with a focus of Circus & Physical Theatre. It takes centre stage in Bathurst NSW every second year in September. The first festival was in September 2005 and the next Catapult will run from September 23 - 27 September 2009. A free event at Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William St, Bathurst. Tel 02 6333 6161 Website www.catapultfestival.com.au

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Swag premiere

19 - 26 September, Cowra

Swag is the story of a battling farming family doing it tough in the harsh years of the Great Depression. “It is a powerful story that directly reflects on some of the hard issues facing rural communities,” says Cowra Music & Dramatic Society President Lawrence Ryan. Written by Trangie writer Maggie May and featuring music by composer Michael Harvey (Carols in the Domain), Swag will be performed for the first time ever by the Cowra Music & Dramatic Society performers. This is the second time Maggie May Gordon and Michael Harvey have successfully teamed up, with their first production Eureka! going on to enjoy a successful professional run at the Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne. Tickets $25/$18 (incl. supper) from Cowra Neighbourhood Centre. Tel 02 6341 3337

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A Local Man returns home

26 - 27 September, Bathurst

An intimate portrait of a great Australian statesman. On 9 June 1951 at his modest home in Bathurst, Ben Chifley prepares a speech he will deliver the following day at the Labor Party conference. It's a difficult time. Two months earlier the Labour Party was defeated in the election. His political legacy appears to be in ruins, and his health is failing. Bathurst's play about Ben Chifley, written by Bob Ellis and Robin McLachlan, is coming home for two special performances at BMEC. Since debuting in Bathurst in 2004, the play has been to Sydney, Canberra, Adeliade, Penrith as well as a tour of regionla Victoria. Tony Barry appears as Ben Chifley. At Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William St. Tickets $20 - $35. Tel 02 6333 6161 Website www.bmec.com.au

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Yilila

2 October, Mullumbimby

The music of Yilila is based on ancient Aboriginal culture and delivered with high energy. They stand alone as an exceptional group of musicians and dancers from one of Australia's most remote communities in Arnhem Land. When Yilila perform they tell the story of Dhumbala or Red Flag which is the story of their culture and is unique to only a handful of Aboriginal communities. The lead singer Grant Nundhirribala has performed and danced with Bangarra Dance Company, Yothu Yindi, Zakir Hussein, Sultan Khan and David Bridie. At Mullumbimby Civic Hall, starts 8pm. Tickets $20 at the door. Presented by Ku Promotions. Website www.kupromotions.com.au

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Nature Art Workshop

13 - 14 September, Lithgow

Nature Art Workshop, Exhibition and Artists talk with Blue Mountains Artist, Fiona Lumsden at Eskbank House & Museum. The workshop will be held on Saturday 13 ‐ Sunday 14 September and will include a day learning about specimen collecting and identification at Hassans Walls Reserve. The second day will be at Eskbank House & Museum where participants will learn the finer points of nature and botanical art. Contact Eskbank House Museum, Cnr Inch & Bennett St. Deborah McGrath, Tel 02 6354 9999

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Making money in the creative economy

16 September, Bangalow

This one day workshop has been designed to provide a no-nonsense guide to marketing and business growth for the creative industry sector. The workshop program will assist participants to critically examine their business, define market segments, evaluate commercial viability, develop tools for creating a unique and sustainable business advantage. This is a practical guide to marketing and business growth for creative businesses. Using case studies and a series of hands on activities participants will complete a seven step business analysis. The workshop will be facilitated by Wilson Main from Creative Economy. At Bangalow Bowling Club from 9.00am to 3.30pm. Cost $25 (includes morning tea & light lunch). Contact Arts Northern Rivers Tel 02 6628 8120 for bookings. Registration forms online. Website www.vision6.com.au

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10th Annual Summersong Music Camp

16 - 23 January 2009, Lennox Head

 Australia's premier adult music holiday camp will celebrate its 10th birthday in January. For this special occasion we've lengthened the camp from one week to 8 days, due to popular demand, and enlarged the program even further. This year's program will include daily classes for all levels in a cappella singing (Tony Backhouse), Songwriting (Kristina Olsen, Del Rey), guitar (Karl Farren & Del Rey), Vocal Technique (Richard Lawton), Vocal Duos, Trios & Quartets (Richard Lawton), Band Lab (Karl Farren & Rex Carter), Ukulele (Jenny Parenteau & Del Rey), Arranging (Kristina Olsen), and Piano (Rob Stevenson). Located directly between the Pacific Ocean and the beautiful ti tree Lake Ainsworth, music-filled days evolve into evenings spent performing, jamming, celebrating our 10th birthday, musical games and other surprising fun activities. There are some Partial Youth (ages 17 - 24) Scholarships available, and residential or non-residential options. Bookings and details online. Website www.summersongmusiccamp.com

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Museums Australia national conference - call for papers

17 - 20 May 2009, Newcastle

The museums sector often falls into the trap of only presenting the finished product, the flawless fait accompli. The 2009 Museums Australia conference wants to turn 'how on earth did you get there?' into 'that's how we can do it.' With the three sub themes Working Together, Working Differently and Working New focussing on innovation and collaboration, this conference will showcase inspirational projects from around Australia and the world. The organising committee invites submissions of abstracts to be presented at the Museums Australia 2009 Conference in Newcastle. Presentations may either be submitted as an oral or poster presentation. Conference details and submission guidelines online. Website www.ma2009.com.au/papers

Closing 30 September

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Articles and reviews needed for music magazine

You are invited to submit articles or items for publication in the November issue of Music Forum magazine. Deadline is September 8. Music Forum at the moment has room for some extra CD reviewers. Music Forum reviewers are well informed musically and are good writers. Alas, we are unable to pay fees. The discs are retained by the reviewers along with occasional bonus discs. For either of the above, please contact Richard Letts Editor Music Council of Australia me by Email mca@mca.org.au Please let me know of your intention to send an article. Website www.mca.org.au

Closing 8 September

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National touring initiative for contemporary performance

The Australia Council for the Arts invites tenders to develop, produce, manage, market and present a major national touring initiative for contemporary performance for the next three years. The Australia Council has been funding the touring of contemporary performance in Australia since 2003. To date, this has been through Mobile States, a consortium of Australia’s major independent contemporary performance presenters. The national touring initiative is a cross-artform project of the Australia Council to promote and broaden the appeal of contemporary performance in Australia’s major cities, jointly funded by the theatre board, dance board and inter-arts office. The budget for the initiative is $200,000 per year for three years, with the funds available from 1 July 2009. Tenders should be sent to tenders@australiacouncil.gov.au Contact Antonietta Morgillo, Program Manager, Theatre Tel 02 9215 9107 Email a.morgillo@australiacouncil.gov.au Website www.australiacouncil.gov.au

Closing 3 November

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Museums & Galleries QLD - consultants & suppliers register

Are you a consultant working with museums and galleries, in the field of cultural heritage, or are you a supplier of a specialist product relevant to museums and galleries? The Museum & Gallery Services Queensland Consultants & Suppliers Register is an online list of individuals and companies who can offer their services to the museum and gallery sector. The Register allows workers in the arts industry to conduct a search for a consultant or a supplier by name, by key professional skills, or by key supplies/products.The Register can be access Australia-wide, therefore registration is not restricted to Queensland-based consultants and suppliers. It is used by staff and volunteers working in museums, galleries, and the wider cultural heritage industry, and is regularly accessed prior to funding deadlines. Inclusion on the Consultants & Suppliers Register is free of charge. Contact Leisha Lawrence Tel 07 3215 0820 Email information@magsq.com.au Website www.magsq.com.au

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Regional Aboriginal Cultural Development Officer, Arts MNC

Salary $60,000 - $65,000 + car & super, Coffs Harbour

Arts Mid North Coast is a regional arts and cultural development organisation located on the Coffs Harbour Education Campus and covering seven Local Government areas across the Mid North Coast of NSW including: Great Lakes, Greater Taree, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Kempsey, Nambucca, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour. This area also covers the traditional areas of the Woromi, Birpai, Dunghutti and Gumbaynggirr Nations. We currently have 2 full-time, Aboriginal designated positions available to operate from our Coffs Harbour offices. These positions will work closely with staff from Arts Mid North Coast and a Regional Aboriginal Board to implement a five-year strategy called ‘Foundations of our Future’. This program will involve intensive work with a variety of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal groups and extensive travel across the Mid North Coast of NSW. Contact Richard Holloway for information package and selection criteria. Tel 02 6658 9400 Email arts@midcoast.com.au Website www.artsmidnorthcoast.org

Closing 26 September

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Fraser Studios visual arts residency

Are you a visual artist that needs free workspace? FraserStudios Visual Arts Residency Program will offer free workspace in the old Kent Brewery development site, on Broadway. From September 2008, three warehouses at 10-14 Kensington Street, Chippendale will be temporarily transformed into a multi-disciplinary art space. The initiative will be produced by local not for profit arts organisation Queen Street Studio on behalf of developer Frasers Property, and the program will offer a series of four 3-month residencies (12 weeks) to 8-10 visual artists/groups per residency from September 2008 to October 2009.  The space is a rustic no frills warehouse with a common ground floor for all artists to share and 4-5 workspace areas on both the first and second floors. The residencies will be open to professional artists and groups encompassing a diverse range of practises and outcomes. Contact Sam Chester Tel 0400 098 988 Email sam@queenstreetstudio.com Website www.queenstreetstudio.com

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Metro Screen | Digital Effects Scholarship

Metro Screen is offering scholarships for 15 students to join the growing PDV sector. The intensive course starts 25 September and is structured to develop visual effects skills for video, film, TV and new media. Applications need to be recieved before 5 September 2008.
Contact Liz Cooper, Training Coordinator, for more information about the scholarships. Tel 02 9356 1818 Email l.cooper@metroscreen.org.au Website www.metroscreen.com.au

Closing 5 September

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James Kirby Foundation

Up to $100,000 in funding (average $10,000). The Foundation's overall goal is to distribute grants to charitable, educational and technical bodies throughout Australia in the areas of health, education, technology and science, art and literature. Identified target groups include: people with physical and intellectual disabilities; youth and young people; Indigenous people; children, families and parents; people in rural and remote communities; and the homeless. Prior successful arts-based applicants include Mission Australia’s Creative Youth Program, the Australian Ballet First Impressions Program and Sculptures By The Sea Education Program. Organisations applying must have DGR status. For application forms, Tel 02 9212 2711

Closing 30 September

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CAL | Professional Development Fund

This grant offers a maximum of $5,000 to each successful applicant, to support professional development through attendance at a Conference, Writers' Festival, Summer School or Course, within Australia or overseas. Applications should include personal contact details, details of the event/course to be attended (with a website reference wherever possible), an outline describing how this event/course will contribute to your professional development, an outline describing how your attendance at this event/course will contribute to the creative community, a detailed budget, to include travel, accommodation expenses and registration fees only, and a brief resume. Guidelines and application forms online. Contact Susan Hayes, Tel 02 9394 7600 Email research@copyright.com.au Website www.copyright.com.au

Closing 17 October

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The Marten Bequest Travelling Scholarships

The Marten Bequest Travelling Scholarships provide support for students in a variety of categories to help them further their cultural education and achieve their dreams. They are awarded each year for study, maintenance and travel either in Australia or overseas. In 2009, 2 x $25,000 Scholarships will be offered in: architecture, ballet, instrumental music, painting, sculpture, and singing. To be eligible, applicants must be a native-born Australian aged 21-35 (17-35 for ballet) at the closing date of entries. As a guide, recipients of the 12 scholarships to be awarded in 2009 will receive $25,000 each. These provide total prize money of $300,000 for 2009. Further information and application forms online. Contact Cauz Group Pty Limited Tel 02 9144 2415 Email trustawards@cauzgroup.com.au Website www.trust.com.au/philanthropy

Closing 31 October

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NAVA | Australian Visual Artists' Benevolent Fund

This grant provides some limited financial assistance to any visual arts practitioner faced with a disaster situation as a result of serious illness, accident or some other unexpected catastrophe. Funds are limited and will be used by the Trustees only when, in their opinion, the applicant is faced with a disaster situation. In order to assist applicants here are some examples of assistance already given: an artist whose arm was nearly torn off in a studio accident, artists whose studios have been destroyed, (including fires and an earthquake), artists suffering life threatening illnesses requiring funds to afford treatment. Assistance may be in the form of loans, advances, gifts or any other measures considered by the Trustees to be appropriate to the need of the beneficiary. Tel 02 9368 1900 Email nava@visualarts.net.au Website www.visualarts.net.au

Ongoing

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MAD Motion Pictures Film Festival

19 September, Bowral

MAD Motion Pictures Film Festival is a competition for young filmmakers aged 12 to 27. The major prize is a place in the Young Filmmakers Digital Video Workshop at Metro Screen in Paddington where you will be tutored in all aspects of short filmmaking and given an opportunity to make a film for submission to Tropfest Junior. This prize also includes $500 cash for travel and accommodation costs. The other major prize of $800 cash will be awarded to the film with the Best Road Safety Message. Other prizes include a Sony DVD Handycam valued at $700 donated by the Berrima District Credit Union and a $100 voucher from Retravision. If your film is chosen as a finalist it will be screened at the M.A.D. Motion Pictures Film Festival at the Empire Cinema Bowral on 19 September, 2008. Winners will be announced on the night. To be eligible for entry to the competition all films must contain a reference to 'road safety.' For details of the competition guidelines contact Chris, Tel 0430 597 101 Email madmotionpictures@gmail.com

Closing 5 September

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Kiama Art Society Prize

24 October - 2 November, Kiama

The Kiama Art Society's 30th annual exhibition is open to all, with prize money of $8000, and sections for traditional, contemporary-abstract, portraits, still life, watercolour and young (under 19) artists. Each painting entered attracts a $20 fee. The opening night award presentations are Friday 24 October from 6pm, where for $15pp you get a supper, refreshments and catalogue. The Leagues Club venue is in the town centre, corner of Collins and Terralong Streets, parking is plentiful. Entry forms online. Contact Len King,Team Leader, Kiama Art Society 2008 annual exhibition. Tel 02 4233 2220 Email kiamart@westnet.com.au Website www.kiamaart.org.au 
Closing 26 September

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Christmas Song competition

Mitchell Conservatorium is hosting a second performance competition of Hazel Hughes’ new Australian Christmas Songs. These songs beautifully capture the spirit of Christmas in Australia. There is a new category for composition; compose your own Australian Christmas Song, with the words of Hazel Hughes. Four songs with an attractive Australian theme cover celebrating what it means to have Christmas in Australia. The Grand Prize winner of the Christmas Song Competition will perform at Reliance Credit Union Carols by Candlelight in Bathurst’s Machattie Park at the end of the year & specially selected entries will be compiled for a special Christmas CD. Entry forms and full details online. Website www.mitchellconservatorium.edu.au

Closing 26 September

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2009 City of Albany Art Prize

Artists, fancy some solid studio time, away from everyday pressures? How does four weeks in a self-contained studio cottage in Albany, on the scenic southern coast of Western Australia, sound? Enter the 2009 City of Albany Art Prize, a prestigious national prize for paintings, and you could win this studio time, with $2500 for expenses, in addition to the major cash prize of $25 000. The studio aspect of the prize recognizes that many artists juggle one or more jobs to fund their art practice, and that a solid period to think and make art can be an elusive dream. Entries for pre-selection close on December 12, 2008. Exhibition dates April 4-27, 2009, at the Vancouver Arts Centre, Albany. Go to Website www.albanyartprize.com.au to find out more, or Email artprize@albany.wa.gov.au

Closing 12 December

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The Keeper

On a tiny island in a lonely sea, human lives jostle and collide like waves on the rocks. A love offering, a doomed rescue, death, and a child’s secret are the flotsam in this watery tale. Connie’s secret floats in from a dark past, carries her to a terror filled future; music is one thing that can soothe. And the lantern in the tower must flash its pattern of light and dark, no matter the human cost. THE KEEPER transports us into a strange world, where everyday objects take on a life of their own, a wry humour casts light on the tale, and songs can release a trapped soul. I am very interested in touring this show independently, to presenters who like the idea of a show about lighthouse tales..especially in areas where there is a lighthouse; but not exclusively! Writers: Chrissie Shaw and Penelope Bartlau. Duration: 54 Minutes, no interval. Contact Chrissie Shaw, Tel 02 6247 2015 Website http://barkingspidertheatre.com.au

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