Innovative sponsorship model brings Katie Noonan to Cowra

7 November, Cowra

Cowra Arts Council is again using its innovative share-risk sponsorship model to fund a concert this month by Australian folk and blues singer Katie Noonan. This is a model that could work well in other regional centres, especially now that the Guarantee Against Loss (GAL) funding schemes are no longer available. Each share-risk package costs $500 and with this model of sponsorship the sponsor receives their stake back in full, whether the event breaks even or makes a profit. In the event of a small loss the sponsor will still get back the balance of their sponsorship. A similar scheme was used to sponsor the Oz Opera production of Madam Butterfly in Cowra last year, and all sponsors received their sponsorship back in full. The Cowra Arts Council is already planning an Oz Opera performance of La Traviata for 2010, funded in the same manner. The cost of the Katie Noonan concert, to be held in the new hanger at Cowra Airport, is around $30,000 and the Arts Council is confident that all tickets will be sold. A win-win for the whole community! Katie Noonan plays Cowra Airport Hanger at 8pm on Saturday 7 November. For ticketing details please contact Cowra Information Centre: Tel 02 6342 4333

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HERMIT

19 - 21 November, Griffith

Griffith Regional Theatre presents HERMIT, a spectacular new performance work inspired by the life of Valeri Ricetti, the Hermit of Griffith’s Scenic Hill. Drawing on interviews with locals, historical documents and photographs, archeological research and their imagination, the creators have devised a complex, multi-layered and beautiful story about love, isolation, exile and madness that will add to the already rich legend of the Hermit. Combining live action with video projections, voice-overs and an original soundtrack, HERMIT aims to reveal the man behind the myth. For performance and ticketing details please contact the Theatre: Tel 02 6962 8444. To celebrate the premiere of HERMIT, Griffith Visitors Centre are organising guided tours of Hermit’s Scenic Hill Cave. To book a tour please contact the Centre: 02 6962 4145. For all other enquiries please contact Producer Marg Couch: Tel 02 6962 8455. This project has received funding from the Australia Council for the Arts, Arts NSW, Griffith City Council and the Australian Government through the Regional Arts Fund.

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Farewell to Arts North West RADO

After almost 14 years as Regional Arts Development Officer (RADO) for Arts North West, Jack Ritchie has moved on to a new challenge in the Hunter Central Coast region of New South Wales where he will take up the newly created position of Local Employment Coordinator for the Hunter Central Coast. “It has been a difficult decision to make – to leave Arts North West and this region. However, this is an opportunity to apply the skills I have developed in the New England North West to a new role,” Ritchie said. “After so many years I can't quite believe I soon won't be a RADO. My time in this position has been extremely satisfying. In particular, I have valued the opportunity to meet and get to know so many inspiring people who continue to dedicate vast amounts of time and energy to developing and maintaining arts and culture in the regions.” During his time at Arts North West Jack has played a key role in the development of projects, cultural organisations and cultural positions, providing advice and support to individuals, Councils and cultural groups. Regional Arts NSW joins Arts North West in thanking Jack for his enormous contribution and wishing him the very best for his future journey.

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New Indigenous Arts Business Manager at Arts Northern Rivers

Regional Arts NSW joins Arts Northern Rivers in welcoming Sara Twigg-Patterson to the role of Indigenous Arts Business Manager at Arts Northern Rivers. Sara has worked extensively in the visual arts as a graphic designer, in marketing and communications and in establishing and managing community-based Aboriginal art centres in South Australia and the Northern Territory. Her academic qualifications include postgraduate studies in Indigenous arts management from the Wilen Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development, while her business experience includes sales and marketing, promoting the professional development of artists, and developing exhibition programs and business opportunities. Sara will be based at 3 Rivers Aboriginal Art Centre in Lismore and will work throughout the region to run a business skills development program for Indigenous artists and provide business support, marketing and sales services to artists. The Indigenous Arts Business Manager position is funded by the Department of Education Employment and Work Place Relations (DEEWR) Innovations and Partnerships branch. Sara can be contacted by email at sara@artsnorthernrivers.com.au

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Success for regional artists through Accessible Arts

Regional Arts NSW congratulates the nine organisations – including regional network members Arts Out West and Murray Arts – which have been awarded Accessible Arts Small Grants to support the development of high quality arts events as part of this year's Don’t DIS my ABILITY campaign. The campaign runs throughout November in the lead up to International Day for People with a Disability (IDPWD) on 3 December. Accessible Arts CEO Sancha Donald said, "These grants support and promote the creativity and talent of people with disability across NSW. We believe that ongoing relationships between the professional arts and disability sectors are essential in developing artistic practice, sustaining dialogue and ensuring mutual learning beyond IDPWD." Other grant recipients include Cessnock Regional Art Gallery for its Creating Dreams art workshops and exhibition, Byron Shire Council for the Drumming to My Own Beat project, and Tra La La Blip in NSW's Northern Rivers for their electronic music workshops. Regional Arts NSW also extends congratulations to regional printmaker and sculptor Scott Trevelyan, one of 24 artists currently featured in the 2009 AART.BOXX exhibition which runs until 7 November at the Mori Gallery in Sydney. For further information please visit the Accessible Arts website at www.aarts.net.au

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2009 Parliament of NSW Aboriginal Art Prize winners

The winner of the 2009 Parliament of NSW Aboriginal Art Prize was announced at the official opening of the exhibition at Parliament House on 21 October. Roy Kennedy was awarded the prestigious $20,000 prize for his work Missing Series 2. Kennedy belongs to the Wiradjuri language group and his works are held in both the National Gallery of Australia and the Australian National Maritime Museum. In Mission Series 2 he depicts how Aboriginals were treated in the Missions, drawing upon his own memories of Warangesha Mission. The Parliament of NSW Aboriginal Art Prize features a second award, the College of Fine Arts (COFA) Professional Development Award. This year the Award was won by Penny Evans of Northern Rivers for her three piece work Dispersion of the Old Girls. The Award gives Evans a two-week residency at COFA in mid-2010 together with an opportunity to showcase her work in a solo exhibition at one of COFA’s galleries in late 2010. A selection of works from the Parliament of NSW Aboriginal Art Prize will now tour regional NSW galleries, including the Albury Art Gallery, the Port Macquarie Hastings Regional Gallery, Northern Rivers Community Gallery and the Cooee Heritage Centre Gilgandra. For further information please contact M&G NSW Programs and Services Officer Sarah Samild: Tel 02 9339 9905, Email sarahs@mgnsw.org.au

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Local Indigenous talent wins at Grafton Regional Gallery

Danielle Burford of Coffs Harbour has won the $5,000 open prize at the 2009 Clarence Valley Indigenous Art Award for her painting Wonambi and the Wollemi Pine. The painting will now join the collection of contemporary Aboriginal art at the Grafton Regional Gallery. Gallery Director Jude McBean said, "The gallery is delighted with the result. Danielle is a young artist and we look forward to seeing more of her work. The high standard of the entries from artists throughout the North Coast demonstrates the growing strength of Aboriginal artists and culture." The Highly Commended prize of $1,000 was won by Penny Evans from Lismore for her mixed media work entitled Strange Fruit. Other winners included students from the Baryulgil Primary School, whose exhibition in the Studio gallery won them $600 in art materials for their school. As winner of the open prize Danielle Burford will go on to present a solo exhibition in the Loft gallery in 2011. For further information please contact Public Programs Officer, Rose Marin: Tel 02 6642 3177

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Indigenous art Commercial Code of Conduct completed

Following extensive national consultations, the Indigenous Australian Art Commercial Code of Conduct has been completed. The Code is designed to strengthen fair and ethical trade in the Indigenous visual art industry, specifying a set of minimum standards for dealers, agents and artists, and defining terms of trade, rights and responsibilities for the sale and management of artworks. Arts Minister Peter Garrett has welcomed the Code, saying “A Code of Conduct governing fair and ethical trade in the commercial Indigenous visual art industry is vitally important for the future viability of the sector. This Code helps Indigenous artists negotiate fair pay for their work and give buyers greater certainty of an artwork’s origin and ownership and I urge all commercial galleries and art centres dealing in Indigenous Australian art to sign up to the Code once it becomes operational.” The implementation of a code of conduct was a key recommendation of the 2007 Senate Inquiry report into the Indigenous visual arts and craft sector, which revealed unscrupulous and illegal commercial practices towards Indigenous artists. The Code is voluntary and will be implemented initially for a two year, self-regulatory period. Read the new Code of Conduct here. 

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NSW leads in private sector arts funding

New South Wales leads Australia in business sponsorships of the arts and donations to the arts, according to the second annual Australia Business Arts Foundation (AbaF) Survey of Private Sector Support for the Arts, released on 1 October. New South Wales ($72.1 million) and Victoria (64.1 million) received the lion’s share of private sector income – 68 per cent of the national total of $202 million. Queensland moved into third place with $18.7 million (9 per cent). Western Australian arts organisations received $18.1 million, South Australia $13 million, the ACT $8.8 million, Northern Territory $3.8 million and Tasmania $3.6 million. AbaF’s survey incorporates financial data from 276 arts organisations across the country. AbaF asked how much they received in the 2007-8 financial year in sponsorships (cash and in-kind) and donations. Based on these figures AbaF calculated a total for the whole Australian arts sector. The sector that received the most private sector support was performing arts ($77.8M) followed by art galleries ($50.7M). The AbaF survey is the only comprehensive national study of private sector support for the arts. A summary of the findings is available online at www.abaf.org.au.

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Deni Delivers!

Organisers of this year's Play on the Plains Festival and Deni Ute Muster, held in Deniliquin on the first weekend of October, were delighted by its success. Not only did the Festival deliver top-class entertainment but it also brought with it substantial rainfall for the drought affected area. Cool conditions failed to dampen the spirits of over 20,000 attendees who travelled from around Australia and beyond to be part of this iconic event. This year a new Guinness World Record was created in the RM Williams Bull Ride Arena for the largest gathering of people wearing blue shearer’s singlets. Chris Sheedy, official Guinness World Records adjudicator, was present to officially sanction the record which saw 2,230 people gathered in blue singlets. “There’s something very special about this iconic Australian record happening right here in Deni. And to have people from all over Australia travelling here and being part of this new Guinness World Record makes it even more amazing,” said Sheedy. The rain on Friday night did not deter the thousands of fans who enjoyed the Country Energy Main Concert with Troy Cassar-Daley, Adam Harvey, The Sunny Cowgirls, Catherine Britt and Kirsty Lee Akers. Saturday saw thousands more patrons rolling through the gates for the highly anticipated evening concert featuring Powderfinger, The Angels and others. Festival pictures along with preliminary details of the 2010 event are now available online at www.deniutemuster.com.au

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Blue Banksia online art workshop directory

Blue Banksia is a free online directory listing over 1,000 art workshops and courses across Australia. Launched by artists Stephanie Champion and Teresa Spedone in November 2008, Blue Banksia was born out of their shared frustration at missing out on great community workshops simply because they knew nothing about them. To help you plan ahead Blue Banksia provides a Calendar of Events which lists six months of art workshops in advance. If you are on holidays or travelling interstate browse the Calendar of Events to find a creative adventure elsewhere. The site includes workshop reviews, up and coming art workshops and courses as well as tutor features and more. Visit Blue Banksia online at www.bluebanksia.com

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Collections Council launches Now and Then wiki

The Collections Council is delighted to announce the launch of its new community heritage website, the Now and Then website. The website uses wiki technology to enable communities to share, record and explore information about their history, cultural heritage and life today. The Collections Council of Australia has worked in partnership with the Mallala and Districts Historical Committee and its Museum in regional South Australia to develop this new resource. The Mallala community can learn about the places, people, events, organisations and things that make up their history and heritage in addition to adding new information including memories of Mallala which would otherwise be lost. Anyone is able to join in and contribute what they know about a Now and Then community and the places, people, events, organisations and things that make it unique. Now and Then is a pilot project by the Collections Council of Australia. Visit Now and Then online at www.nowandthen.net.au

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The Art of Good Health and Wellbeing Conference

7 - 13 November, Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie's landmark international arts and health conference The Art of Good Health and Wellbeing is almost here and there are still opportunities to get involved! Pre-conference workshops run from 7-9 November and offer outstanding professional development opportunities for visual artists and musicians as well as healthcare professionals of every kind. Formal conference sessions start on Tuesday 10 November with a superb line-up of international experts speaking on topics as diverse as youth hospitalisation experiences, Indigenous healing, arts and autism, best practice models in arts/health programming, creative ageing, improvised performance, the role of arts in palliative care, the carer's journey and much, much more. Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with cutting edge debate and discussion around the crucial role of arts in healthcare. For further information please visit the conference website: www.artsandhealth.org

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Mullumbimby Music Festival workshops

7 - 29 November, Mullumbimby

In the lead up to the second annual Mullum Music Festival a broad selection of musical workshops for adults and kids are about to begin. This is your chance to get involved and get intimate with some of the stars of the event, and in some cases, to perform in the festival. First up is Greg Sheehan's unbearably fun Body Percussion class – create your own rhythms using your body and creativity in four weekly sessions, then perform with the group on the Friday night of the festival at the Civic Hall. Open to teens and adults, and no experience is necessary. From 21-22 November the golden-voiced JoJo Smith will present a Singing Sleepover, a two-day residential retreat combining singing, songwriting and performance skills. Then, during the festival itself, experience the joy of singing with the invincible Mr Percival in his Ensembleous Spontaneous Vocalous Singing Workshop. Just back from a tour of the USA, singer/songwriter Suzanna Carmen will help you get a leg up on songwriting, while James Kenyon will teach master mixing effects with acoustic instruments and voice. For workshop registration, costs and venue details please visit the Mullum Festival website at www.mullummusicfestival.com

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Young People and the Arts | Planning Arts Projects

12 November, Canberra

Presented by Young People and the Arts Australia (YPAA), Planning Arts Projects is a half-day forum devoted to exploring the risks and unpredictability associated with engaging children and young people in the arts. It will address international and national trends in policy and practice that are affecting artists, organisations and major cultural institutions. Speakers Eric Booth, Simon Spain and Lenine Bourke will unpack ideas and issues associated with engaging children and young people in the arts and provide insight into local, national and international best practice examples. The work of Booth, Spain and Bourke collectively spans advocacy, training and professional development, venue management, programming, teaching, learning, citizenship and art making, and each speaker will present their professional context for working with children and young people, artists, educators and cultural workers. From 2-5pm on Thursday 12 November at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, 18 King George Terrace, Canberra, ACT. To reserve your place please contact Luke Hartley at the Museum of Australian Democracy: Tel 02 6270 8102, Email Luke.Hartley@moadoph.gov.au  

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The Artbank Collection

14 November, Cowra

Established in 1980 by the Australian Government as an arts support program, Artbank is the largest buyer of contemporary Australian art in the country. Now part of the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Artbank promotes Australian culture and the enjoyment of living with Australian art by making the collection available for rent and reinvesting its revenues back into the collection. Artbank Assistant Curator Carrie Kibbler will visit Cowra to talk about the Artbank collection and how outreach programs, including a partnership with the Departments of Foreign Affairs and Trade, enable Artbank to tour exhibitions nationally and internationally. Carrie will also be available to speak with artists who are interested in making a submission to Artbank. Carrie has a Bachelor of Art Theory from the College of Fine Arts, University of New South Wales where she is currently completing a Master of Arts Administration. This is a free event. At 11am on Saturday 14 November at Cowra Regional Art Gallery, 77 Darling St, Cowra. For further information please contact the Gallery: Tel 02 6340 2190

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Marcus Westbury to be guest speaker in Bathurst

18 November, Bathurst

Marcus Westbury, presenter of ABC TV’s Not Quite Art, founder of the Renew Newcastle program and the ‘This is Not Art’ festival, will be the guest of Arts OutWest for a workshop and public talk in Bathurst on Wednesday 18 November. Marcus is a broadcaster, writer, media maker and festival director who has been responsible for some of Australia’s more innovative, unconventional and successful cultural projects and events. He is currently working with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries and Innovation, is a fellow of the Centre for Policy Development and a member of the Federal Government's Creative Australia Advisory Panel. Marcus has been invited to facilitate a workshop with selected groups from around our region who are working on ideas and models for creative art spaces in their communities. The event is sponsored by The Carrington Bathurst and is a regional networking event. At 7pm at the Carrington Bathurst, 99 Keppel St, Bathurst. Entry is by donation at the door. To book a place please RSVP to Arts OutWest: Tel 02 6338 4657, Email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au. Read more about Marcus at www.marcuswestbury.net

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Cabaret Kite | Auditions

5 November, Bathurst

The incredibly popular Cabaret Kite is a cabaret-variety show mixing local Bathurst talent with special guests from out of town. Cabaret Kite takes place 4-5 times a year at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC) and is an initiative by the Local Stages Program designed to give local artists new performance opportunities without the pressure of a full length production. Local Stages Producer Kylie Shead says, “The next Cabaret on 21 November will be the 12th Cabaret Kite and we are celebrating in Bond style with the theme ‘shaken, not stirred’. Bathurst locals have really proven that they are a talented bunch, and now we want to give other people a chance to become a part of the Cabaret Kite family, so we are running auditions from 3-5pm on Thursday 5 November. We are looking for performers for the 2010 shows and we are also happy to work with people in the meantime to ensure that they are ready for a Cabaret performance". Those interested in auditioning should contact Kylie Stead: Tel 02 6333 6144, Email kylie.shead@bathurst.nsw.gov.au. For Cabaret tickets please contact BMEC: Tel 02 6333 6161, Website www.bmec.com.au

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The Arcade Project | Retail space for designers

Applications are being accepted for The Arcade Project – a new initiative providing creative producers, designers and craftspeople access to a short term, creatively driven retail space in the heart of the Sydney’s CBD. The Arcade is on the ground level of a four story heritage listed building located near Sydney’s Town Hall. From February 2010, The Arcade will become a landmark centre of cultural collaboration and Sydney’s coolest retail destination, featuring a continual rotation of tenants in order to showcase a limitless range of cutting-edge, inspiring and innovative creative design. More than just market stalls, each hire space inside the arcade offers creators an affordable and accessible way to gain sales and exposure. Space hire is inclusive of onsite retail staff provided by Gaffa who will handle sales and enquiries and provide marketing support. There will be no commission taken on sales. This opportunity may be of particular interest to non-Sydney based designers who are looking at exploring new markets. Guidelines and application details online: www.australiandesignunit.com

Closing 25 November

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2010 Omni Instruments Elvis Art Exhibition | Call for entries

Entries are now being accepted for the Omni Instruments Art Exhibition held in conjunction with the 2010 CountryLink Parkes Elvis Festival. The exhibition, which has become a popular addition to the festival program, will be officially opened on 6 January 2010 and will be open every day of the five day festival. Organisers are inviting artists to enter work in the following categories: paintings, drawings, collage, mosaics, sculptures and leadlight. All work must based on Elvis Presley or an Elvis song or movie to tie-in with the festival. Special thanks goes to Omni Instruments for their sponsorship of the Exhibition and the great cash prizes on offer. The first prize winner will receive $1,250 while the People's Choice winner will be awarded $750. Entry is free and all artworks will be for sale.
To download an entry form please visit the festival website at www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au or contact Shellie Buckle at Parkes Library: Tel 02 6861 2039

Closing 21 December

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Janison Short Sharp Film Festival | Call for volunteers

The Janison Short Sharp Film Festival is an annual event in Coffs Harbour showcasing the work of aspiring and established filmmakers of all ages and levels of skill. After sell-out screenings this year the festival committee is looking for help to keep the festival going. All positions on the committee are volunteer positions and the AGM in November is an opportunity for new people to become involved. Film festival experience is not needed, just spare time and enthusiasm. The committee is particularly looking for someone to assist as committee secretary, preferably someone who is not working full-time, has some computer skills and can spare about two hours each week. We are also looking for people with media or marketing skills to help promote the festival. For further information please contact the Short Sharp Film Festival: Email info@shortsharpfilmfest.com, website www.shortsharpfilmfest.com

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Dubbo City Council | Exhibitions Officer/Curator

The Western Plains Cultural Centre (WPCC) in Dubbo is one of the leading cultural facilities in regional NSW, with six exhibition spaces for the visual arts and cultural heritage. An opportunity exists for a dynamic and motivated person to develop and co-ordinate the exhibition program for the Centre. The successful applicant will work closely with the Manager in the long term and daily management of the Regional Gallery and Museum, assuming responsibility for a range of curatorial and administrative tasks relating to exhibition planning, installation, research, and development.  This position will also be required to supervise exhibition staff, assist with the preparation of Federal and State Government grants and other related submissions. The successful applicant will have tertiary qualifications in the Visual Arts and/or Museum Studies; curatorial management and exhibition management experience within the context of a public art gallery and museum; and will address the essential criteria detailed in the selection criteria. For further information please visit the Dubbo City Council website at www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au or contact the WPCC Manager: Tel 0404 869 161

Closing 2 November

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Australian Maritime Museum | Conservators x 3

Conservator – Objects Duties of this vacancy are: plan and carry out document preservation, conservation and restoration treatments with attention to composite and related organic objects; participate in conservation projects; and provide assistance to other conservators and the Head of Conservation as required. This is a full-time 4 month contract with the possibility of an extension. Salary $54,889-$59,250 per annum, pro rata.

Conservator – Paintings Duties of this vacancy are: plan and carry out document preservation, conservation and restoration treatments; participate in conservation projects; and provide assistance to the Head of Conservation as required. This is a non-ongoing full-time 6 month contract. Salary $54,889-$59,250 per annum, pro rata.

Senior Conservator – Textiles Duties of this vacancy are: lead, plan and carry out document preservation, conservation and restoration treatments; lead or participate in conservation projects; and provide assistance to other conservators and the Head of Conservation as required. This is a non-ongoing 6 month contract. Applications will be accepted for both full-time and part-time. Salary $59,282- $69,461 per annum, pro rata. For further information please visit the Australian National Maritime Museum website: www.anmm.gov.au/employment  

Closing 6 November

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Legs on the Wall | General Manager

Legs on the Wall is one of Australia’s leading physical theatre companies. The position of General Manager has become available at an exciting time in the company’s history. Under the guidance of new Artistic Director Patrick Nolan, Legs on the Wall is currently implementing an artistic plan that includes their appointment as Artists in Residence at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in 2010 and the creation of a major production in collaboration with the National Film and Sound Archive and supported by the Major Festivals Initiative. The General Manager is responsible for leading the management, production and administrative aspects of Legs on the Wall’s business. The General Manager collaborates with the Artistic Director to drive the business plan, vision and long term development of the company. This role offers an exciting career opportunity for an ambitious, driven and passionate arts manager who has a minimum of five years experience working within the sector. Salary $70,000 plus superannuation. A full position description and selection criteria are available online at www.legsonthewall.com.au

Closing 16 November

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Powerhouse Museum Moveable Heritage Fellowship

The Movable Heritage Fellowship program is an opportunity for collecting organisations to have a student undertake a research project on an object, collection of objects or particular aspect of their collection. The program is designed to support a student undertaking research into movable heritage in NSW. The successful student will undertake a research project on an object or group of objects in a community museum, historical society or other collecting institution. The student will receive $5,000 and spend a minimum of one week at the Powerhouse Museum working with a supervisor. The student must be a resident in New South Wales and enrolled at any campus of a University in New South Wales. Collecting organisations that have a project they would like to see undertaken through this program should contact Rebecca Pinchin: Tel 1800 882 092, Email regionalservices@phm.gov.au. Guidelines and application details online: www.powerhousemuseum.com

Closing 6 November

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AbaF Scholarship | Margaret Lawrence Bequest

Participate in a fully-funded executive development program at one of Australia’s leading business schools thanks to an AbaF (Australia Business Arts Foundation) Margaret Lawrence Bequest Scholarship. The AbaF Margaret Lawrence Bequest Scholarships enable senior arts managers to undertake a course of study at either the Melbourne Business School's Mt Eliza Centre for Executive Education or the Australian Graduate School of Management in New South Wales. The scholarship provides access to a wide choice of executive development programs, course and accommodation fees, and transport to and from Melbourne or Sydney for interstate scholarship recipients. Guidelines and application details online: www.abaf.org.au

Closing 13 November

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DADHC | Positive Ageing Grants

Positive ageing is about maintaining autonomy and independence and remaining active in the social, economic and cultural facets of society. A healthy ageing population in NSW will contribute knowledge, experience and skills to the community and to the workforce. Opportunities and benefits of positive ageing include independence, good health, friendship, self fulfillment and  inter-generational learning and sharing. The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care is now offering Positive Ageing grants to support creative projects that promote active ageing, opportunities for lifelong learning and positive images of older people. One-off grants of up to $50,000 are available for a range of creative projects from theatre, music and multimedia to literature, dance, the visual arts and storytelling. Community groups, local government organisations and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply. Guidelines and application details online: www.dadhc.nsw.gov.au

Closing 27 November

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Hill End Artist in Residence Program 2010

Artists are invited to apply for the 2010 season of residencies at Hill End in NSW's Central West. A limited number of residency places in 2010 will be funded through the generous support of Arts NSW and the Department of Environment and Climate Change (Parks Services Division). The Hill End Artist in Residence Program aims to provide an opportunity for creative development in all areas of the visual arts in the unique Hill End environment and at the same time to contribute to the long term cultural development and sustainability of the village. The Residency Program is based in Haefligers Cottage and Studio and Murrays Cottage at Hill End. For further information please contact Sarah Gurich, Curator, Bathurst Regional Art Gallery: Tel 02 6333 6555. Guidelines and application details online: www.hillendart.com.au

Closing 11 December

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Pacific Opera Vocal Writing Prize

Pacific Opera is committed to developing new talent and new music, and each year seeks out composers who have a gift of writing for the classically trained voice. In collaboration with The Fellowship of Australia Composers, Pacific Opera now invites entries for a composition of no longer than 12 minutes duration employing piano and solo voice, or piano and duet for two solo voices. The entry must be a new work which has not previously been performed, recorded, broadcast or published. A cash prize of $2,000 will be awarded to the winning entry. Other features of the prize include a performance of the winning work, a recording, broadcast and interview by 2MBS FM, and an article in Fine Music. Guidelines and application details online: www.pacificopera.com.au

Closing 30 November

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Shakuhachi Chamber Music Composition Competition

The aims of this open international composition competition are to promote the shakuhachi as a modern 'classical' instrument, demonstrate the capabilities of the shakuhachi in ensemble with western instruments, stimulate composition for shakuhachi together with western instruments and chamber groups, and raise the level of shakuhachi performance. Three winning compositions will be selected by the judges and will receive both a monetary prize and a publishing deal with Reed Music. All works submitted for the competition are placed in our database to enable access by those interested in new works for shakuhachi with western instruments. Links will be made to composers and also to a source for scores and audio where available. This international competition is held every two years with rules which vary to include a different range of western instruments with which to accompany the shakuhachi. Winners will be announced on the competition website on Wednesday 30 June 2010. Guidelines and application details online: www.shakuhachichambermusic.com

Closing 26 February 2010

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Utes at the Carrington

1 November - 13 December, Katoomba

From the first of the month a collective exhibition of works by the 'Utes in the Paddock' artists will be on display at the historic Carrington Hotel in the Blue Mountains town of Katoomba. Featured artists include John Murray, Shane Gehlert, Peter Browne, Michael Jones, Peter Mortimore, Eris Fleming, Belinda Williams, Stephen Coburn, Greg Brennan, Brad Brown, Scott Edwards, Karen Tooth, Lewis Burns, Jim Moginie, Bill O'Shea, Leo Robba and Rob Keen. This is a great opportunity to view a large selection of original paintings, prints and sculptures. Open daily between 10am and 4pm, from 1 November to 13 December at the Carrington Hotel, 15-47 Katoomba St, Katoomba. For further information please contact the John Murray Art Gallery: Tel 02 6829 1130, Email info@johnmurrayart.com.au 

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Big Screen heads west

5 - 8 November, Broken Hill, Menindee, Wilcannia

The National Film and Sound Archive will bring a plethora of new and vintage films to far western NSW as part of Big Screen 2009. Films will screen at Menindee, Broken Hill and Wilcannia from Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 November, thanks to sponsorship from Central Darling Shire Council, MADMAN, Menindee Food Fibre & Business Association, Metro Screen, West Darling Arts and ABC Broken Hill. The official opening event at the Silver City Cinema on Friday 6 November will see Balibo director Robert Connolly introduce his film and conduct a post-screening Q&A. This year’s Silverton Pub beer garden screening is of Australian classic The Castle, with proceeds from the sausage sizzle going to The Rural Fire Service. Metro Screen will also present screenings of That’s Art, a documentary resulting from a collaboration between 12 local artists, on both Friday and Saturday nights. To book your tickets for the Friday night opening please contact Del Hughes: Tel 02 8087 9035, Email del@westdarlingarts.org.au. For a full program of screenings please visit the West Darling Arts website at www.westdarlingarts.org.au. The Regional Arts Fund is an Australian Government initiative
supporting the arts in regional and remote Australia.

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Ganga Giri returns to Byron Bay

6 November, Byron Bay

Ganga Giri's pumping percussive didgeridoo show returns to northern NSW with a brand new line-up this November. Ganga Giri has been touring the world for the past eight years and has performed at events such as Glastonbury in the UK, the Vancouver Folk Festival and the Solar Eclipse in the Australian desert to name a few. Ganga has supported acts such as Michael Franti and Spearhead, Xavier Rudd and Tsuyoshi Suzuki, recorded with musicians such as Peter Gabriel and has had his music appear in the classic Australian film Rabbit Proof Fence. Don't miss this chance to see Ganga's high energy dance celebration in Byron Bay. Tickets are $20 full price or $15 concession and are available at the door only. Doors open at 7pm for an 8pm start on Friday 6 November at Coorabell Hall, 641 Coolamon Scenic Dr, Coorabell.

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Opera Murrurundi

6 - 7 November, Murrurundi

The Murrurundi Arts Council is once again thrilled to be hosting Opera Murrurundi on the evenings of Friday 6 and Saturday 7 November at St Paul's Anglican Church, Murrurundi. World renowned pianist Sharolyn Kimmorley will accompany up-and-coming opera stars as they perform music by Donizetti, Mozart, Bizet, Rossini, Gilbert and Sullivan, and Rogers and Hammerstein. The two concerts will feature similar programs but will be presented differently for those interested in seeing both. The evenings will commence at 6pm with drinks and a light supper with performances following at 7pm. Tickets are $30 and should be collected at the door, with bookings made in advance through the Murrurundi Visitors Centre, open 9am-4pm weekdays and 10am-3pm weekends: Tel 02 6546 6446. Seats are limited and tickets sell fast so please be prompt with your bookings!

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Barraba Festival: North Africa

6 - 8 November, Barraba

Barraba is situated 90kms north of Tamworth in the Central North region of NSW. The annual Barraba Festival, now in its 17th year, is a high quality cultural event and the major celebration of the Barraba community. The festival is unique in that it celebrates the arts and culture of a different country or region each year. This year the festival is excited to be celebrating the countries of North Africa. North African culture will feature throughout the festival, in open-air concerts, exhibitions, food stalls and markets, a parade, workshops and a mini film festival. Local participation will be high with over 300 schoolchildren and community members taking part in activities and performances. 2000 people are expected to attend the festival including many visitors from outside the region. On the weekend of 6-8 November at various locations around Barraba.

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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

6 - 21 November, Wagga Wagga

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is about six adolescents vying for the top spot in a competitive county spelling bee. The kids are a loveable, disparate group of outsiders from whom the spelling bee is a way 'to not feel rotten'. As the competition moves forward there is a series of emotional highs and lows, and the contestants sing and dance through these ups and downs. Add in a group of grown-up characters who haven't quite grown up and members of the audience, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee becomes a roller coaster of music and fun. This is another opportunity for Wagga Wagga audiences to witness their outstanding local talent, including Peter Cox, Cherie Medway, Troy Fisher, Justine Hogan, Jamie Way, Danielle Papasidero, Kelsey Holmes, Lindsay Whitehead and Josh McKellar. Tickets are $20-$35. At the Civic Theatre, Burns Way and Tarcutta Street, Wagga Wagga. For performance and ticketing details please visit www.wagga.nsw.gov.au

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Motown in Mudgee

7 November, Mudgee

On Saturday 7 November Gooree Park will host the inaugural Motown in Mudgee charity event featuring the fabulous James Morrison and his Motown Show, together with local act the St Matthew School Band. This is a premier music event with proceeds from all ticket sales going to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of Australia. Tickets are $65 for adults and $35 for children under 12. Gates open at 12 noon with buses running to and fro from the venue from major nearby towns. For bus details and to purchase tickets please visit the Motown in Mudgee website at www.gooreepark.com.au/motown or contact the Gooree Park head office: Tel 02 6378 1800. Tickets can also be purchased from the Mudgee Region Visitors Centre, Market St (Tel: 1800 816 304) and the Bathurst Information & Neighbourhood Centre, Russell St: (Tel 02 6332 4866)

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The Kransky Sisters

13 November, Bathurst

If you think you've heard it on the wireless, you've never heard it like this! Venturing out from the intensely private world of their old family home in rural Queensland Australia, the Kransky Sisters arrive in Bathurst with stories of their travels and unique home-spun renditions of popular tunes. With tambourines, tuba, musical saw, an old 1960s reed keyboard and a clatter of kitchen pots, these oddball sisters, Mourne, Eve and their reclusive, somewhat peculiar sister, Dawn Kransky offer their offbeat illuminations on what they hear on their wireless and see in the magazines. "Brooding, gothic, and unhealthily co-dependent, the Kransky are deservedly an institution" — The Melbourne Age. At 7.30pm on Friday 13 November at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC), 105 William St, Bathurst. For ticketing details please contact BMEC: Tel 02 6333 6161, Website www.bmec.com.au

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Lyon String Trio

14 November, Armidale

Regarded as one of the most promising young chamber ensembles in Europe today, the Lyon String Trio brings together three musicians – violinist Julien Dieudegard, viola player Nathan Braude and cellist Martin Smith – whose passion and energy have captured both audiences and presenters alike. Founded in 2005 at the Ravinia Music Festival in Chicago, the group's commitment to chamber music rests both in diverse programming, education, and outreach programs. The trio has received lessons from leading artists such as Miriam Fres, Ida Kavafian and has performed with renowned musicians including Leon Fleisher, Kim Kashkashian, Antoine Tamestit and Yo Yo Ma. On Saturday 14 November at Armidale Town Hall, Rusden St, Armidale. Tickets are available from Dymocks, Beardy Street Mall, Armidale: Tel 02 6771 4558

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Jean Bellette Gallery | Drawn from Hill End

14 November - 31 January, Hill End

Drawn from Hill End, an exciting exhibition of graphic works from sixteen Hill End-based artists, will be launched by prize-winning artist Euan Macleod at 5pm on Saturday 14 November at the Jean Bellette Gallery. Drawn from Hill End features work by Danelle Bergstrom, Genevieve Carroll, John Firth-Smith, Janet Haslett, Ian Marr, Raquel Mazzina, Bill Moseley, Luke Sciberras, Hui Selwood, Gria Shead, Rosemary Valadon, Julie Williams, Gavin Wilson, Glenn Woodley, Mandy Wright and Ana Young. The unique landscape and rich cultural heritage of Hill End has held a special attraction for generations of Australian visual artists. Curator Gavin Wilson says, "Since the 1990s a new generation of artists has come to live and work in the township. Once again artists have been moved by the aesthetic possibilities and emotive impact of the Hill End region." Open 9.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-4.30pm daily at the Jean Bellette Gallery, Hill End Visitors Centre, Hill End. For further information please contact the Bathurst Regional Gallery: Tel 02 6333 6555

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Brew Guitar Duo on tour

15 November, Cooma

21 November, Wagga Wagga

28 November, Armidale

Following the success of their recent Sunday Live broadcast of the commissioned work Two Guitars Dine Out: A Musical Degustation on ABC Classic FM, the Brew Guitar Duo continues to delight audiences all over Australia. Brew are Matthew Withers and Bradley Kunda – both former students of renowned classical guitar teacher Timothy Kain – and their music is an exciting blend of new Australian works and popular Spanish favourites. This November Brew will release and tour their new album Songs & Dances, featuring classics from Spain and Latin America as well as jazz and pop favourites. This new release will be followed by the second album Landscape in early 2010. Don't miss this opportunity to see these two rising musical stars live! For ticketing and venue details please visit the Brew Guitar Duo website at www.brewguitarduo.com

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This month at Cudgegong Gallery

Until 16 November, Out There Lake Eyre Local Mudgee artist Cilla Warre will transport visitors to Central Australia in her new exhibition Out There Lake Eyre, featuring a collection of 16 acrylic paintings inspired by Central Australia. A graduate of The School of Colour and Design in Sydney, Cilla has always been surrounded by creativity and brings many diverse influences to her current work.

20 November - 25 January, Journey of Discovery This exhibition is a reflection of artist Georgia Mansur's travels through life. Mansur's work includes oils, acrylics, watercolours and pastels heavily inspired by her recent trips to Italy and by time spent painting with impressionist oil master Jerry Fresia on Lake Como. At Cudgegong Gallery, 102 Herbert St, Gulgong. For further information please contact the Gallery: Tel 02 6374 1630, Website www.cudgegonggallery.com.au

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Tilligerry Arts and Quilting Show

19 - 22 November, Tilligerry

The Tilligerry Lions Club and Tilligerry Arts Group are again holding their annual Arts & Craft Festival from Thursday 19 November through to Sunday 22 November in the Lemon Tree Passage Bowling Club auditorium. Organisers are hoping to exceed last year’s record entry of 400 paintings plus 50 quilts. The total prize money on offer exceeds $6,000 across the various open and local categories, including a new category for under 16 years painters which offers a $100 first prize and a $50 second prize. The official opening night attracts a $5 entry fee however entry to the exhibition is free at all other times. At the Lemon Tree Passage Bowling Club, Gould Dr, Lemon Tree Passage. For further information please contact Tilligerry Arts Group President, Mervyn Iles: Tel 02 4982 4525

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Mozart and Me with Damien Whitely

20 November, Cowra

Internationally acclaimed Australian bass Damian Whiteley is Lorenzo Da Ponte in Mozart and Me, written and directed by Melvyn Morrow. Da Ponte – Mozart's librettist and opera's most spectacular loser – is now 260 years old and working in Hollywood! Sit down singing meets stand-up comedy in this provocative festival of fact, fiction and failure. At 8pm on Friday 20 November at the Cowra Civic Centre, Cnr Darling St and Bartlett Ave, Cowra. Tickets for the event are $40 full price and $30 concession and are available from the Cowra Visitor Information Centre: Tel 02 6342 4333

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This month at Tweed River Art Gallery

From 20 November, LPPP, HSC & TAFE

An annual exhibition of art work by local primary, secondary and tertiary students.

Until February 2010, New Acquisitions

This exhibition showcases selected artwork from approximately 100 works acquired over the last 18 months by the Gallery through generous donations.

On permanent display:

Friends Gallery, Australian Portrait Collection

The Anthony Gallery, Lay of the Land

At Tweed River Art Gallery, Cnr Tweed Valley Way and Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah. Website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/artgallery     

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Strelitzia

21 November, Berry

22 November, St Georges Basin

Strelitzia has been described as "a duo of highly gifted musicians which exhibits performances of continuous distinction…an impressive talent worth nurturing” (North Shore Times), and has performed to great acclaim both in Australia and overseas. In 2008 the duo – Eleanor Betts on cello and Lindsay Gilroy on piano – performed in Canada as part of the Toronto Summer Music Festival, and earlier this year they won the prestigious Musica Viva Chamber Music Award at the City of Sydney Eisteddfod. On Saturday 21 November Strelitzia will perform an exciting and varied program in Berry, including the passionate and highly virtuosic Rachmaninoff Sonata for Cello and Piano and Astor Piazzolla's Le Grand Tango. The concert begins at 6pm at the Berry School of Arts, Alexandra St, Berry. The same program will be repeated at 2pm on 22 November at the Bay & Basin Music Club at Meriton Street Community Centre, St Georges Basin. Tickets are $15/$25 and include wines from Coolangatta Estate. To reserve tickets please contact Strelitzia: Tel 0416 015 418 or 0409 155 575, Email strelitzia@mail.com   

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This month at Albury Art Gallery

Until 22 November, History of the National Photographic Purchase Award The National Photography Prize was founded in 1983 after the Gallery's Committee of Management decided to make the collection of Australian Photography a major part of its Collection. This exhibition showcases highlights from the prize over its 26 year history.

Until 6 December, Eyes, World, Hands In 2008 artist Dirk Spenneman set out to take photographs of one set of hands and eyes per person, per day for 366 days. The result is this compelling exhibition that reflects the power of man's eyes and hands in shaping the world. At Albury Art Gallery, 546 Dean St, Albury. For further information please contact the Gallery: Tel 02 6051 3480, Email alburygallery@alburycity.nsw.gov.au   

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Open Day at Wallangreen Sculpture Garden

27 November, Grenfell

Wallangreen is a rambling dry style garden displaying abstract and realistic metal sculptures made from former machinery parts – birds, bugs and beetles shelter in the trees while animals and dancing girls enliven the landscape. On Friday 27 November there will be an open day in this picturesque setting, featuring an artist's talk at 10.30am with Len Wallace titled 'Sculpting and an introduction to working with old metals'. Entry to the open day is $4 and the garden will be open from 10am to 4pm. At the Wallangreen Sculpture Garden and Gallery, Cnr Fitch's Lane and Melyra St, Grenfell. For further information please contact Len or Janice: Tel 02 6343 1707 or 0427 317 902, Website: www.grenfell.org.au/wallangreen

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This month at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery

Until 4 December, Aboriginal Dreaming

The Glasshouse Regional Gallery is currently showing an exhibition of stunning works by some of Australia’s best-known artists. Titled Aboriginal Dreaming: Contemporary Collections, the exhibition features paintings by Rosella Namok, Dorothy Napangardi, Maureen Hudson Nampajinpa, Gloria Petyaree, Ningura Naparula, Yannima Tommy Watson, Prince of Wales and Walangkura Napanangka.

19 November - 24 January, Ricky Maynard: Portrait of a Distant Land This exhibition represents a selection of 60 photographs from six separate bodies of Ricky Maynard's work developed over the past 20 years. A documentary photographer and artist based on Flinders Island, Maynard's pictures are charged with emotion and controversy, bearing witness to the physical and psychological characteristics of the Australian landscape and the history of its people. Curated by Keith Munro from the Museum of Contemporary Art. At the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, Cnr Clarence and Hay Sts, Port Macquarie. For further information please contact the Gallery: Tel 02 6581 8888, Website www.glasshouse.org.au

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This month at Grafton Regional Gallery

Until 13 December, Grafton

Alison Williams: Awake The Gallery is delighted to present a solo exhibition of works by the winner of the inaugural Clarence Valley Indigenous Art Award, Alison Williams, titled Alison Williams: Awake. This new body of work is reflective of ideas about identity and spirit.  Alison’s ancestry as a Gumbaynggirr woman provides a centre of strength, from which she reaches beyond culture to raise awareness of truth and existence.

History of the Jacaranda Queen As we celebrate the 75th year of the Jacaranda festival and the 55th crowning of the Jacaranda Queen it is the perfect time to remember the heady days of queens past in this special exhibition titled History of the Jacaranda Queen.The exhibition features images of past queens and princesses with assorted memorabilia from public and private collections, including articles of clothing and jewels worn by the queens and artifacts such as programs and portraits. At Grafton Regional Gallery, 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. For further information please contact the Gallery: Tel 02 6642 3177, Website www.graftongallery.nsw.gov.au

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Museum of the Riverina | The Boy from Wagga Wagga

Until 17 January, Wagga Wagga

A new exhibition at the Museum of the Riverina celebrates the extraordinary radio, stage and screen career of local legend Bill Kerr. The exhibition features never before seen film and theatre photography, original posters and memorabilia that are of great local and national significance. Born in Wagga Wagga, Bill Kerr was a child star and grew up performing in local musical theatre, revues and eisteddfods. In the late 1940s he shot to international fame on British radio, billed as the 'The Boy from Wagga Wagga'. This catch-cry struck an instant chord with the post-war British audience, who thought of Wagga Wagga as a comically surreal, end of the earth, magical place. With unprecedented access to Bill Kerr’s personal archives this exhibition includes theatre posters from the 1940s, film posters, sheet music, costumes, photographs and original letters from Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan, Harry Secombe and other luminaries of British film and theatre. At the Museum’s Historic Council Chambers Site, Cnr Morrow & Baylis St, Wagga Wagga. For further information please contact Sally Gissing, Education and Public Programs Officer: Tel 02 6926 9654, Email gissing.sally@wagga.nsw.gov.au

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Regional Arts NSW is the peak body for the arts and cultural development in regional and rural New South Wales.

Tel 02 9270 2500
Email admin@regionalartsnsw.com.au
Website www.regionalartsnsw.com.au

Regional Arts NSW receives funding from the NSW Government through Arts NSW, the Australian Government through the Regional Arts Fund, and the Australia Council for the Arts Community Partnerships.

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