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with 140 news stories, highlights of regional arts events, seminars, training and other events and listings of grants, prizes and more.

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Highlights News What's On Seminars, Workshops + Training Opportunities

Employment Grants, Fellowships + Residencies Awards + Prizes Resources About this e-Bulletin

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Highlights

A FREE RANGE CHRISTMAS
1 December, Newcastle
3 December, Bathurst
4 December, Katoomba
7 December, Wollongong
A Christmas celebration for all creatures great and small. Join The Song Company as they let loose in a special Christmas concert focusing on animals from around the world. Wolves, oxen, cats and dogs, tigers and lambs, donkeys, ducks, dogs and doves all join in for a delightful extravaganza of songs, carols, stories & poems. Program includes Andersen’s Ugly Duckling song, Rossini’s cat serenade and prize-winning poems by young Australians. Directed by Roland Peelman, The Song Company combines the most ancient of singing traditions with the most daring contemporary vocals. The concert will suit everyone 8 years and up.
Tickets: $38/$32/$30/$25. Contact Tel 02 9251 1600 Website www.songcompany.com.au

DON'T DIS MY ABILITY - INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY (IDPWD)
3 December, Everywhere
Approximately 110 events, programs and activities will be held during December to celebrate IDPWD, including no less than 28 arts events in regional New South Wales brought together under the Accessible Arts 'Accessing the Arts' umbrella (look for them in the 'What's Ons', below). Accessible Arts encourages organisations to develop projects with ongoing and sustainable outcomes so that people with a disability will continue to benefit from creative skills development and cultural opportunities made accessible to them during this time. Contact Accessible Arts Tel 02 9251 6499 Email info@aarts.net.au Website www.aarts.net.au IDPWD Website www.internationaldayofpeoplewithadisability.com.au/

SPAGHETTI CIRCUS
8 – 10 December, Ballina
The Thursday Plantation East Coast Sculpture Show presents one of Australia's leading youth circuses in four shows at the Thursday Plantation Amphitheatre. Two shows on 8 and 9 December open to schools and two public performances on the 10th December, at 11am and 1pm. The young, talented Spagetti troupe present an awesome array of spectacular skills in a dynamic blend of circus and physical theatre - trapeze, stilts, unicycle, comedy, hoola hoops, contortion, juggling, poi, fire, acrobalance, tissues, corde lisse and more. Tickets $8/$6. Pay at the gate for the Saturday public performances, no bookings required. Contact Priya Woolston Tel 02 6686 7273 Website www.sculptureshow.net/

FESTIVAL OF THE SUN
16 – 17 December, Port Macquarie
A two-day festival to be held right on the beach at the Sundowner Breakwall Tourist Park. Festival of the Sun includes a killer line-up of some of Australia's best up and coming musicians. Sarah Blasko, Gerling, Things of Stone and Wood, The Herd and The Mess Hall will be joined by many other artists all celebrating the East Coast summer culture. Visitors will also be able to view the finalists' films from SunScreen, the first ever Independent Music Video Festival, when the films are aired on an outdoor cinema screen between the live acts. Tickets $95, with a percentage of the profits going to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. Website www.fotsun.com.au

10TH ANNUAL STAMPING GROUND FESTIVAL
1 – 16 January, Bellingen
Every year, more than 500 dancers and new enthusiasts converge on the village of Bellingen for the annual Stamping Ground dance and action arts festival. For 16 days the town and surrounds bristle with creative energy, a lot of sweat, and a broad program of 50 daily workshops, performances, events, revelry, site-works, ceremonies, bloke's stuff and forums. The Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with a major choreographic competition and music video award. The hip-hop program also features a battle night on 7 January. Australia’s only dedicated dance festival is a pioneering event, not only because it’s totally unfunded, but for the impact on local youth arts practice and increased awareness of male dance as a positive activity. Stamping Ground has become an important fixture in the national arts calendar attracting international, interstate and local participants to the exciting workshop programs and public performances. Tel 02 6655 2472 Email info@stampingground.com.au Website www.stampingground.com.au.

CANON BY FLING PHYSICAL THEATRE
27 – 29 January; 2 – 4 February 2006, Bega
fLiNG Physical Theatre's latest production, Canon, is based on an original score by Geoffrey Badger. The performance features young musicians and dancers offering a new twist to a classic form, in this simple, elegant piece for all ages. At Bega Showground Pavilion. Family $40/$35 Adult $18/$15 Child $7/$5. All shows at 8pm except for 29 January, at 5pm. Bookings Tel 1300 667 136.

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News

OZCO COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS SCOPING STUDY – SUBMISSIONS NOW INVITED
The Australia Council for the Arts is exploring the role of the arts in and with communities in Australia. It is looking to develop a strategic framework that will clearly identify how it will engage with the sector to support – through its new Community Partnerships Section – community cultural development, youth, education, disability and regional development. The Australia Council has commissioned a Scoping Study to propose directions for the support and development of creative communities and is keen to hear a broad range of views. Submissions to are now invited. The Scoping Study Reference Group has developed four questions around which to frame your submission:
What are the achievements of arts programmes in and with communities?
What do you think was the most important thing that contributed to this achievement?
What arts and cultural activities do you want to see in communities and what is inhibiting this?
What do you see as the emerging trends and needs in communities, and what role could the arts play in meeting these needs?
Download the submission document from the National Arts and Cultural Alliance (NACA) Website (Word document) here or contact Elizabeth Tupper Tel 02 9215 9078 Email cpstudy@ozco.gov.au
Closing 20 January

REGIONAL ARTS FUND GRANTS ANNOUNCED
Over $315,000 for 23 new projects in regional NSW in 2006
Regional Arts NSW has announced a new round of arts grants for regional, rural and remote communities in New South Wales in 2006 from the Australian Government's Regional Arts Fund. A total of $316,158 has been approved for 23 projects, which will deliver a swag of new arts and skills development opportunities for people in regional, rural and remote New South Wales in 2006. The list includes initiatives in public art, writing, arts and disability, dance, film, music, new media, theatre and more. Highlights include a three year artists-in-residence program in Wilcannia and a program of digital media art workshops in the Eastern Riverina developing material for large collaborative artworks at the Next Wave Festival and the Commonwealth Games. Contact Regional Arts NSW Tel 02 9270 2504 Email rachael@regionalartsnsw.com.au Website www.regionalartsnsw.com.au.

COUNTRY ARTS SUPPORT PROGRAM (CASP) 2006 NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS
Guidelines and Application Forms for the 2006 Country Arts Support Program are now up on the Regional Arts NSW website. So if your community has an idea for an arts project in 2006 and you need some help to pay an artist or bring an artist to town then get cracking! CASP provides small grants of up to $3,000 for arts and community organisations in regional, rural and remote NSW for short term, locally initiated projects. A total pool of $200,000 is available, with funds devolved from the NSW Ministry for the Arts. Contact your local Regional Arts Development Office [here] and download the forms from the Regional Arts NSW website [here]. The deadline for applications for projects commencing 1 April 2006 is 14 February 2006.

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS ARTS & CULTURE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS
Last year, as a result of the Australian Government's new whole-of-government policy on Indigenous affairs, Indigenous arts and culture programs were transferred from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services (ATSIS) to the Department of Communications, Information Technology & The Arts (DoCITA). In addition to its existing arts programs DoCITA now administers three programs specifically targeted at Indigenous Australian art and culture:
National Arts and Crafts Industry Support
Indigenous Culture Support and
Maintenance of Indigenous Languages and Records.
The aim of each program is to build community capacity and support the transfer of knowledge and skills from one generation to the next, recognising the vital economic, cultural and social role of art and culture in Indigenous communities. Applications for each program are now sought with the closing date of 22 February 2006. (More information under Grants).

FRANK PANUCCI TO DRIVE COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AT AUSTRALIA COUNCIL
The Australia Council for the Arts has appointed Frank Panucci, until recently the CEO of CCD NSW, has its Director, Strategic Development for Community Partnerships. The new Community Partnerships section brings together the Council's work in CCD, youth, education, disability and regional development within the Council's Community Partnerships and Market Development division. It is a result of the Australia Council's re-structure following the dissolution of the CCD and New Media Boards announced last year. Mr Panucci will manage the implementation of the Community Partnerships Scoping Study and develop the Council's long-term strategic framework for community partnerships. He starts on 12 December. More on the Australia Council's website [here].

ATYP'S NATIONAL STUDIO IN BUNDANON
Shaping the next generation of theatre makers
Three accomplished and experienced professional theatre makers – Director Kate Cherry, Choreographer Lee Pemberton and Performer/Theatre Creator Leisa Shelton will lead a five day intensive collaborative workshop for eleven of the most promising young theatre makers from around Australia at the Boyd Trust’s 'Living Arts Centre' in the Southern Highlands this month as part of the Australian Theatre for Young People's annual National Studio. The program is "an incredible opportunity for young creative artists to gain insight and guidance from the best this country has to offer," says Tim Jones, Artistic Director. National Studio runs 5–9 December at the Yvonne and Arthur Boyd Riversdale Education Centre, in Bundanon, in Nowra. Contact Tim Jones Tel on 02 9251 3900 Website atyp.com.au

NEW DOCTORATE IN CULTURAL RESEARCH NOW ON OFFER
State of the Arts reports that The Centre for Cultural Research at UWS is offering a new doctorate in cultural research aimed at professionals in government, business and community sectors who want to explore how culture shapes and transforms contemporary societies. The doctorate will appeal to people who work in areas that deal with cultural diversity and community relations; urban development and planning; art, culture and heritage; creativity and innovation; cultural impacts of technology and globalisation; and the culture of organisational change. Website www.stateart.com.au

SUBMISSIONS SOUGHT ON 'BROADBAND IN THE BUSH' DISCUSSION PAPER
The Minister for Communications, IT and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan has released a discussion paper outlining proposals to spend $1 billion on broadband as part of the $1.1 billion Connect Australia package. The aim is to deliver innovative, competitive and sustainable broadband solutions for Australians in regional, rural and remote areas. Potentially, some 1.6 million homes, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations will benefit. Submissions are invited from all interested parties with a closing date of 18 January 2006. The discussion paper is available online under ‘key issues’ at www.dcita.gov.au. Read the full media release [here].

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What's On

THE CELTIC LARRIKINS
1 December, Albury
Celtic tunes & traditional folk songs with a few original songs thrown into the brew. Music in the true traditional Celtic flavor filled with energy, fun & passion. Instruments include: fiddle, cello, mandolin, bodhran, lagerphone, harmonica, percussion, squeeze box, banjo, guitar, bass guitar, and vocals. Free. At the Electra Cafe @ 7pm. Tel 02 6021 7200

ARTABILITY – IDPWD
1 December, Lithgow
An exhibition of art and craft created by people with a disability at The Uniting Church. Includes pottery, painting, patchwork, jewellery, mosaics and other craft work. Open 10am-2pm. Contact Vicki Dick Tel 02 6351 4887

ARTABILITY – IDPWD
1 – 7 December, Wagga Wagga
A free exhibition highlighting the talents of local artists who have a disability, at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. Contact Andrea Tel 02 6921 9225

DON'T DIS MY ABILITY – IDPWD
TOURING EXHIBITION
1 – 11 December, Nowra
5 – 6 December, Huskisson
7 – 8 December, Sussex Inlet
9 – 10 December, Ulladulla
An art exhibition by people with a disability. Locations: Shoalhaven City Library, Nowra; Lady Denman Maritime Museum, Huskisson; Sussex Inlet CTC and Ulladulla CTC. Contact Alan Blackshaw Tel 02 4429 3411

MOONA MOONA ART EXHIBITION
1 – 21 December, Huskisson
An exhibition by Jervis Bay artists celebrating the unique beauty and environmental importance of the area from Moona Moona Creek to the waters of Jervis Bay. Opening night 6–8pm. At the Jervis Bay Kiosk, Huskisson. Contact Randall Sinnam Tel 02 4441 7434 Email randall.sinnamon@gmail.com

THE SHAPE OF CHRISTMAS
1 – 21 December, Gilgandra
An exhibition of Christmas Trees ' with a difference', as decorated by groups and individuals in the annual competition. Official Openig 4 December @ 7pm. At the Cooee Heritage Centre. Contact Tanya Coxedge Tel 02 6847 2104.

IDPWD – INAUGURAL NATIONAL ART COMPETITION
Until 2 December, Armidale
The New England Regional Art Museum is hosting the National Art Competition, for people with an intellectual disability. Significant prize money is being offered to winners, as judged by both professional and people's choice judging. The works are to be exhibited at the National Doctors Conference to be held in Armidale from 29 November to 1 December as well as at the New England Regional Art Museum. The gallery is open from 10am - 5pm, entry is free. For bookings/enquiries contact Nicola Chirlian Tel 02 6772 1799

IDPWD – ART DISPLAY
Until 2 December, Lithgow
Paintings by students from local schools, special education departments and other disability services will be on display for free at Lithgow Valley Plaza. For more information Tel 02 6352 2077

IDPWD – ART AND CRAFT EXHIBITION
Until 2 December, Ballina
The Christian Outreach Centre presents an art and craft exhibition celebrating people with a disability and their creations. There will be performances on Friday 2 December and morning tea will be provided.
The centre is open from 10am - 3pm and entry is by gold coin donation. For more information, contact Kelly Buckingham Tel 02 6686 7776 Email kelly.buckingham@bdcsa.org

IDPWD – INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY EXPO
2 December, Albury
Accessible Arts present this outdoor expo involving music, dancers, a Deaf choir, wheelchair basketball demonstrations, art gallery activities and displays by disability service providers. The expo is free and will be open from 11am-2pm. For bookings or enquiries, contact Katheryn Josselyn Tel 02 6056 2420 Email kathryn@disability-advocacy.com.au

IDPWD – DON'T DIS MY ABILITY
2 December, Bathurst
A disability information stand in the Stocklands Shopping Centre lobby featuring fun activities, including a wheelchair challenge for local Councillors and a display of essays from a competition held for local school children. Open 9am-3pm. Contact Terisa Ashworth Tel 02 6332 2100

IDPWD – ABILITY CELEBRATIONS
2 December, Broken Hill
Concert in the Town Square performed by people with a disability. Coordinated by Home and Community Care and a number of other organisations in Broken Hill, there will be Service Provider Information Stalls and a sausage sizzle. This is a free event and is running from 10am-2pm. For more information contact Tel 08 8088 0001

IDPWD – DISABILITY IS NOT A CRIME
2 December, Gosford
An art exhibition of works by people with a disability, held in the Gosford Court House. Specific access requests can be made to Mark Thomas. Mark Thomas Tel 0410 324 004 Email mthomas3@bigpond.com

IDPWD – BRUSH IN THE MOUTH
2 December, Grafton
Grafton Regional Gallery is holding a talk and demonstration by artist Margaret Greig, who has helped raise awareness of the needs of people with a disability in China. Margaret is exhibiting her artwork during November, December and January. The demonstration will be from 10.30am-12pm and is free. For more information contact Cher Breeze Tel 02 6642 3177

IDPWD – ENCORE ON STAGE - SHINE
2 December, Newcastle
A talented team of twenty young adults with a disability will be performing a variety of choreographed musical and dance acts in this spectacular concert at the Mayfield Ex Services Club. The concert is from 10:30 - 12:30 and is by gold coin donation. For more information contact Sue Goldman Tel 02 4963 6420

IDPWD – EXPERIENCING OUTSIDER ART
2 December, Orange
A tour of an exhibition created by people with a disability followed by an afternoon tea and participation in guided art expression. Orange Regional Gallery, the tour starts at 2pm and is free. For more information or bookings contact Rebecca Davies Tel 02 6393 8600

PLAY NOW / ACT NOW - YOUNG PEOPLE + ALCOHOL - NSW FILM TOUR
2 – 9 December, Various locations
Play Now/Act Now is both a harm minimisation alcohol education project and a celebration of the rich and diverse talent of young artists in New South Wales. The tour is screening all entrants in the 2005 video/film competition, including the 11 finalist films, with some dates screening additional local work.
2 December @ 7pm Grafton - South Grafton Emporium (also screening 'Family Portrait')
8 December @ 6pm Wyong - Oasis Youth Centre
9 December @ 6pmGosford - Erina Youth Centre
Other dates TBC in: Robertson, Gunnedah, Singleton, Port Macquarie, Orange, Cooma, Goulburn, Bellingen, Parkes and Bathurst. Contact Katrina Beck, Festival Director Tel 02 9361 5318 Email k.beck@metroscreen.org.au Website www.playnowactnow.net.au.

THIS MONTH AT BATHURST REGIONAL ART GALLERY
2 December – 15 January, Bathurst
Prints in Place: Works from the gallery's permanent collection
"How I entered there I cannot truly say": Collaborative works from the Editions and Artist Book Studio, Australian National University School of Art. Contact Tel 02 6331 6066.

EK-LECTIC
Until 3 December, Wodonga
Robyn Patterson-Elliot's first solo exhibition in the Albury-Wodonga region explores a range of art media, styles and subjects. Indigenous issues (through non-indigenous eyes), the natural environment and semi-abstract views of people, pure abstract exploration of texture and colour, and realism and super-realism, combine to create an EK-LECTIC collection of 2D and 3D works. Arts Space Wodonga. Tel 02 6022 9600 Email shogg@wodonga.vic.gov.au

IDPWD – INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY CELEBRATIONS
3 December, Goulburn
Celebrations at Belmore Park. Sporting activities, an art exhibition on display in the park, community participation and art workshops. 9am–4pm. Free. Contact Gerry Doran Tel 02 4823 4497 Email mcdermott_centre@bigpond.com.

MURDERBALL – IDPWD
3 December, Laurieton
"You're not going to hit a kid in a wheelchair? Hit me. I'll hit you back." – Mark Zupan
A special screening of this documentary about people with quadriplegia who play full-contact rugby in Mad-Max customised wheelchairs. Follows the US team-mates as they overcome unimaginable obstacles to compete in the Paralympic Games in Athens, Greece. Winner of the audience prize at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival. Laurieton Plaza Theatre @ 2:45pm. Contact David McGowan Tel 02 6559 8755 Website www.plazatheatre.com.au Murderball Website www.murderballmovie.com

ARTZABILITY – IDPWD
3 – 7 December, Griffith
An exhibition showcasing artworks produced by people within the community with and without a disability. All works were required to recognise disability, cultural diversity and be inclusive of all society. Opening 2 December from 6pm with live entertainment, food and drinks. Griffith Regional Art Gallery. Contact Chris Tomlinson Tel 02 6964 3199.

PIECES OF THE OUTBACK
3 – 30 December, Coonabarabran
Exhibition of works by Sue Hend created in collaboration with students from Dubbo. At the Art Gallery of C, Coonabarabran. Contact Tel 02 6842 1462 Website www.theartgalleryofc.biz

CSU BA PHOTOGRAPHY GRADUATES
Until 4 December, Albury
An exhibition which is the culmination of intensive study by students from the Albury campus of Charles Sturt University showing the latest trends in a variety of photo media. Albury Regional Art Gallery Tel 02 6051 3480 Website www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au/gallery.

AT TWEED RIVER ART GALLERY THIS MONTH
Until 4 December, Murwillumbah
Les Perterkom Portrait Prize for Children: A colourful display of winning and highly commended works from the prize which many north coast school students entered.
Transitions: Artworks by HSC students from Murwillumbah, Tweed River, Kingscliff and Wollumbin High Schools, Lindisfarne Anglican School, Mt St Patrick and St Joseph's Colleges.
Until 5 February
Time Place and Light: Pastels by the 2005 border art prize winner, Trish Callaghan in the cafe.
Contact Tweed River Art Gallery Tel 02 6670 2790 Email tweedart@tweed.nsw.gov.au.

TIMBER AND THREADS
4 – 14 December, Goulburn
An exhibition of woodwork by Kevin Dwyer and assorted fibre works by Helen Dwyer. Opening @ 2pm, by gold coin donation to charity. Goulburn & District Arts & Crafts Centre. Contact Tel 02 4822 7889.

ARTWORK DISPLAY
Until 5 December, Lithgow
Art exhibition in the library learning centre by students with an intellectual disability from the Lithgow Information Neighbourhood Centre. Contact Penny Hall Tel 02 6352 9143 Email community@lithgow.com

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERS DAY
5 December, Everywhere
Recognising the work of volunteers globally. Contact info@volunteering.com.au Website www.volunteering.com.au

PORTRAITS OF AUSTRALIAN ARTISTS – IDPWD
6 December, Coffs Harbour
An Auslan interpreted free tour of works by Greg Weight @ 1:30pm. The exhibition includes photographic portraits of Margaret Olley, John Olsen, Tracey Moffatt, Brett Whiteley, Rosalie Gascoigne, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Arthur Boyd, Martin Sharp, Jeffrey Smart, George Gittoes, Wendy Sharpe and many other well-known Australian artists, captured in their studios. Coffs Harbour City Gallery. Contact Sandra Warner Tel 02 6648 4860 Email sandra.warner@chcc.nsw.gov.au

'VAGUE IN VEGAS'
7 – 17 December, Albury
Mitch & Trixie Spangle are back with a brand new show. They are detoxed, botoxed and flytoxed as they hit the Border - and promising a rollercoaster ride of song and nostalgia to rock and roll heaven. Starring Sally-Anne Upton and John Walker, backed by Melbourne music maestro Greg Riddel. Albury Convention Centre Tel 02 6051 3051.

ANITA & MALCOM LAURENCE
Until 8 December, Milawa
An exhibition by siblings Anita and Malcolm Laurence who have both worked as professional practising artists for many years, focusing on painting and printmaking and metal sculpture respectively. Milawa Cheese Factory Tel 03 5727 3599.

MAKE POVERTY HISTORY – FREE CONCERT
8 December, Lismore
Local singer/songwriters Luke Vassella and John Glenn will headline a free concert to raise awareness for the global Make Poverty History campaign. Featuring other local artists and a guest from TEAR Australia, spokesperson Steve Bevis, who will perform and also talk briefly on the needs of poor communities around the world. CLC Auditorium, Lismore. Contact Isaac Smith Tel 0402 547 731.

THE FINNEY'S
10 – 18 December, Laguna
Valley Artists presents a contemporary play about the plight of development in a small rural community and how the community rallies together to guard against greed. Laguna Hall Community Hall. Contact Louise Clarke Tel 02 4998 3419 Email valleyartists@wollombi.org.

INDIGENOUS ART FROM THE RAMINGINING & MANINGRIDA
Until 11 December, Port Macquarie
Curated by the Museum of Contemporary Art, Local Indigenous communities and the Hastings Regional Gallery, an exhibition of works selected from the National collection of artworks of the Ramingining and Maningrida from North central Arnhem Land by the local indigenous communities. Port Macquarie Hastings Regional Gallery Website www.portmacquarieregionalgallery.com.au

DOMESTIC BLISS & BLUNDERS
Until 12 December, Chinderah Bay
A joint exhibition by visual artists Margaret P. Deane and Clare Johnson. The theme comes from a sense of the age-old struggle and juggle of being an artist balanced with the demands of family life. At the Curious Art Gallery. Contact Clare Bryant Tel 02 6674 5340 Email curiousart@better.net.au Website www.curiousart.org.au.

EYE JOURNEY
Until 15 December, Murwillumbah
An exhibition of photographic works by internationally renowned wildlife photographer Darren Jew, who captures the wonder of the natural world through nature photography. From the Great Barrier Reef and tropical rainforests to the oldest rivers and ranges on Earth, this exhibition explores the natural beauty of Australia. Contact Escape Gallery 02 6672 2433 Website www.escapeart.com.au

60TH AUSTRALIAN JAZZ CONVENTION
26 – 31 December, Lismore
Around 300 musicians and 1,000 delegates are expected in Lismore for the 60th Australian Jazz Convention featuring some of Australia’s finest traditional jazz players. Scheduled concerts mixed with unscheduled "blows" will occur across as many as six venues a day. There will be street parades, picnics, church and pub gigs, accommodation is available at Southern Cross University. Contact John Bancroft Tel 02 6622 8147 Email John.Bancroft@ lismore.nsw.gov.au Website www.lismorejazz.org.

CELEBRATE ABILITY – IDPWD
Until 3 January, Central West
A large program of exhibitions, forums and workshops across the Central West including the galleries in Bathurst, Cowra and Lithgow. Celebrate Ability banners will also be displayed in Orange. Presented by Arts OutWest. Contact Hannah Semler, RADO Tel 02 6338 4657 Email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au.

INTIMATE ENCOUNTERS: DISABILITY AND SEXUALITY – IDPWD
Until 8 January, Wagga Wagga
The virtually uncharted territory of sexuality and people with a disability is the subject of this stunning, controversial photographic exhibition at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. Contact Brendan Dahl Tel 02 6926 9660 Email dahl.brendan@wagga.nsw.gov.au

AT THE GRAFTON REGIONAL ART GALLERY
Until 8 January, Grafton
Baryulgil Art Prize Exhibition: Entries in 4 school categories + open section for the wider community
Textures of the Clarence Valley: Works by teachers of visual art, design, technology and textiles.
The Design Proces in the Built Environment: Works of 6 professional designers of the Clarence Valley's built environment.
Limited Editions Arthur Boyd in Print: Printmaking and its place in Arthur's artistic career. A travelling exhibition, supported by Visions of Australia.
Margaret Greig, Brush in the Mouth: Contracting poliomyelitis at the age of 12 and rendered a quadriplegic, Greig has developed an outstanding artistic ability by holding her brush in her mouth.
Contact Tel 02 6642 3177 Email mail@graftongallery.nsw.gov.au.

THE NESTER LOU AND SLIM KNACKERS SHOW
20 January – 10 February, Bingara, Warialda, Gunnedah, Uralla, Ben Lomond, Moree and Goondiwindi
Nester Lou is a Country Music Star! Her heart and soul pour through her songs and performance. Her fans adore her and she adores this! Her power ballads bring tears to grown men’s eyes. Her confidence on stage is paralleled only by the greatest stars in the night sky that is country music. An internationally unrecognized country music non-entity, Slim Knackers has spent the last years relentlessly not touring the world, bringing his unique brand of country music to generations of nobody. The winner of not one, not two, but absolutely no Golden Guitars Awards at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Slim’s career continues to spiral out of control regardless. Full details on the website or Contact Tel 0419 612 743 Website www.merrimaygill.com.

AT THE TWEED RIVER ART GALLERY
19 January – 19 February, Murwillumbah
Qualia/Connected: An exhibition of work by Eastpoint NCI TAFE visual art and ceramics students.
Nomadic: A Flying Arts travelling exhibition that showcases the use of hemp as en emerging ecofibre through a display of new, innovative and distinctive fibre artworks all created collaboratively.
Famous Faces: Sixteen black and white photographs of well-known artists by renowned Sydney photographer Greg Weight taken between 1971 - 2003. Contact Tel 02 6670 2790 Website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/artgallery/artgalleryhome.aspx

2006 TOYOTA STAR MAKER QUEST
22 January, Tamworth
Finalists in the 26th Toyota Star Maker Competition will perform at the Tamworth Entertainment Centre, in the nation's capital of Country Music, during the famous Tamworth Country Music Festival. The Toyota Star Maker Quest has previously launched the careers of Lee Kernaghan, Gina Jeffreys, Keith Urban and Beccy Cole, amongst many others. Contact Tel 02 6767 5300 Website www.tamworth.nsw.gov.au.

ILLAWARRA FOLK FESTIVAL
26 – 29 January, Bulli
The festival is back after a year off, and in a great new location at the Bulli Showground. Over 400 international, national and local performers, 11 venues, 4 days of folk music, dance, poetry and storytelling. The Showground has great ambience, under the rainforest of the escarpment and adjoining the famous Grevillea Gardens. Applications sought for festival volunteers and performers. Contact Dave De Santi Tel 02 4297 1777 Website www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au.

WESTERN DESERT ARTISTS
Until 30 January, Tamworth
An exhibition of contemporary aboriginal art exhibition sourced from the Western Desert region. Includes artists Barney Campbell Tjakamara, Maisy Campbell Napaltjarri, Mitjili Napurrula and Christine Peterson Nangala. Pronto Art Gallery. Contact Sally Clifton Tel 02 6766 2211.

IN AND OUT OF HILL END
Until 30 January, Hill End
Since 1994 over 100 artists have taken part in the Hill End residency prorgam. This exhibition plays tribute to the works of several Hill End residency artists, all inspired by the landscape of the region. Hill End Art Gallery, NPWS Visitors Centre Website www.hillendart.com.

RAW AND COMPELLING: AUSTRALIAN NATIVE ART – CONTINUING THE TRADITION
Until 5 February, Tamworth
A major touring exhibition from the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery including paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures from public and private collections, by artists living and working in Australia from the 1940's onwards. Tamworth Regional Gallery. Contact Kathleen Von Witt Tel 02 6755 4459 Email gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au

HARMONIC VISIONS III
Until 5 February, Tamworth
Harmonic Visions III is the final presentation of this popular exhibition organised to coincide with the Tamworth Country Music Festival, exploring art and music. Tamworth Regional Gallery. Contact Kathleen Von Witt Tel 02 6755 4459 Email gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au

FROM ESTONIA TO THIRLMERE – STORIES FROM A UNIQUE COMMUNITY
2006, The Oaks
An exhibition tracing the development of the poultry industry in NSW from the early Estonian settlers in 1927 to 1967, drawing from the experiences of a core group of Estonians who migrated to Australia from DP camps in Germany The stories are told in text, photos, music, film and oral history and using personal accounts and objects loaned from private collections. The Wollondilly Heritage Centre, The Oaks. Tel 02 4657 1796 Email history@oaksheritagecentre.com.

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Seminars, Workshops + Training

MOBILE SCREEN METRO UNIT
1 December - 31 January, Various Locations
Metro Screen’s Mobile unit can design workshops, and supply the equipment needed to meet your requirements and budget. It is consolidating links in Western Sydney and regional NSW with exciting mobile unit training programs + productions. The mobile equipment enables services we have had in Sydney for the last 20 years to be offered to people across the state. Website www.metroscreen.com.au

CREATIVI-TEE ART WORKSHOP – IDPWD
2 December, Cowra
A special art workshop for adults with a disability in the Cowra region with local artist Nyree Reynolds. 10–12 noon at the Gallery/Library Multipurpose Room. Participants will create T-shirts using a specially-designed stencil technique. All materials supplied and each participant will take home a finished product. Contact Jacque Shultze Tel 02 6340 2190
Email cowraartgallery@cowra.nsw.gov.au Website cowra.local-e.nsw.gov.au

AEF CREATIVE ARTS SUMMER SCHOOL
3 – 10 January, Orange
A variety of creative arts classes at Kinross Wolaroi College. Portrait painting and life drawing, drama workshops, creative writing, pottery, still life in pastel, wood, mosaic and oil painting. Contact Jean Brown Tel 02 4382 6898 Email aefcreativearts@hotmail.com Website www.aefcreativearts.com

WEAVING WORKSHOPS
6 & 14 December
18 & 25 January
1 & 8 February, Lake Cargelligo
A series of workshops with Bev Co and Su Williams to increase confidence, esteem and wellbeing in women and their communities. Using a CCD approach to the use and protection of traditional weaving materials to strengthen community attitudes and networks that reject violence and offer appropriate support to victims of violence. Su was taught about traditional baskets by women from the Coorong in SA. Participants will not only learn how to weave the baskets but how the sedge grows, how it is collected and dried and the ways the sedge may be protected. Contact Liz MacRaild Mob 0427 664 034.
Made possible with funding from the Australian Government's Regional Arts Fund.

HANDS-ON ART WORKSHOPS – IDPWD
9 December, Newcastle
Hands-on art workshops for people with a disability. Newcastle Regional Art Gallery. Bookings essential. Contact Penny Finnigan Tel 02 4974 5112

FLAMENCO CLASS – IDPWD
10 December, Newcastle
An introductory class for adolescents with Down Syndrome under the instruction and guidance of leading flamenco dancer Dean Watson, accompanied by renowned flamenco guitarist Greg
Alfonzetti. 2pm. Newcastle Regional Art Gallery. Free. Contact Alison McLaren Tel 02 9251 6499 Email dean.watson@aco.com.au

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS
10 – 24 December & 16 - 20 January, Various Libraries
Various free creative writing workshops for adults and kids.
Adults:
10 December, Batemans Bay Tel 02 4474 1333
16 December, Moruya Tel 02 4472 5850
24 December, Narooma Tel 02 4476 1164
Kids: (9 - 12 yr olds)
16 January, Batemans Bay Tel 02 4474 1333
18 January, Moruya Tel 02 4472 5850
20 January 20, Narooma Tel 02 4476 1164
Bookings through the respective libraries (numbers supplied). Further information Tel 02 4472 8773 Email emmabh@optusnet.com.au

CREATIVE MUSIC MAKING WITH MILK (THE BAND)
11 December, Wodonga
A two hour workshop exploring fun and imaginative ways to make music including: group music making - sharing and improvising; voices - singing and harmony; rhythm - foot stamping and hand clapping; performance - movement and confidence building. Milk share their creative process and secrets about music, performing, and creating. In the Blue Weatherboard Cottage behind Murray Arts, 12.30–2.30pm Cost: $20/$15 Contact Karen Roben, Murray Arts Tel 02 6021 5034.

MURRUMBIDGEE SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS
15 – 20 January, Wagga Wagga
CSU Community Education's week of art & craft classes on the Wagga Wagga campus. Designed to develop skills in a range of art & carft disciplines, with workshops such as core beading techniques with Leeza Silverman, Jewellery Manufacture with Evan Marceau, and Creative Millinery with Neil Grigg. All workshops are week long. Beginner to advanced levels. Contact the Program Coordinator Tel 02 6933 2064 Email ltillman@csu.edu.au Website www.csu.edu.au.

THE LISMORE SWING DANCE CAMP
22 – 27 January 2006, Lismore
Offering four "amazing" teaching couple and four track levels, the camps runs for five days with 5–6hrs of classes a day. Classes suitable for all levels and abilities in Lindy Hop. Contact Brian Whelan Tel 02 6622 3633 Email brian@swingconnection.com.au Website www.swingconnection.com

7TH ANNUAL SUMMERSONG MUSIC CAMP
22 – 28 January 2006, Lennox Head
A residential music holiday camp for aspiring and professional musicians who want to perform, create and learn music with like-minded folks from around the globe. Classes in songwriting, a cappella (gospel and mixed repertoire), guitar, arranging your songs, didjeridoo, vocal technique, performance techniques, improvisation, song circles, percussion and even yoga. It's also unmitigated fun. Partial scholarships available for those aged 18–24. Contact Alison Pearl Tel 02 6684 5570 Email apearl@mullum.com.au Website www.summersongmusiccamp.com

2006 JEWELLERS AND METALSMITHS CONFERENCE
27 – 29 January, Sydney
'On Location: Making Stories' will showcase acclaimed Australian and international contemporary jewellers, metalsmiths and craftspeople. The conference includes exhibitions, workshops and talks hosted by, among others, Australian practitioner and writer Margaret West, and internationally acclaimed Dutch practitioner Ruudt Peters. Website www.jmgansw.org.au.

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERS PARTNERSHIPS CONFERENCE – CALL FOR PAPERS
Abstracts of 200 words are invited for papers and other presentations for the SEP National Policy Conference on Empowering Individuals and Families in the Human Services to be held in Melbourne next May. This inaugural policy conference will explore public policy for an agenda of empowerment for individuals and families in indigenous communities, disability, mental health, aged care, youth, education, health care, community building and family strengthening. Contact Vern Hughes Email vern@partnerships.org.au Website www.partnerships.org.au
Closing 28 February

2006 WOMEN'S GATHERING – HELP NEEDED
22 – 24 October 2006, Grafton
Clarence Valley Women Inc (CVWI) has been selected by the NSW Department of Primary Industries' Rural Women's Network to host the 2006 Annual Women's Gathering and they are seeking:
women who are interested in being on an organising sub-committee;
women interested in providing a 2 hour workshop on a topic in which they have expertise (or finding someone else who may volunteer to provide a workshop);
suggestions for keynote speakers and
s uggestions for entertainment on the Friday & Saturday nights.
Contact Victoria Tel 02 6642 9742 Email victoria@stlawrenceconsulting.com.au.

Grants, Fellowships + Residencies

DOCITA – PLAYING AUSTRALIA
The Australian Government's national performing arts touring program aims to give all Australians, wherever they live, better access to some of the country's best performing arts. It has supported a variety of performances since it began in 1992, from ballet to Indigenous dance, jazz to classical music and Shakespeare to bilingual theatre. Assistance is provided for companies, producers, venues, presenters and tour organisers to tour across State and Territory boundaries where this is currently not commercially viable and there is demonstrated public demand. Applications sought for tours commencing 1 July 2006. Tel 02 6271 1665 Email playing.australia@dcita.gov.au Website www.dcita.gov.au.
Closing 15 December

FOUNDATION FOR YOUNG AUSTRALIANS - YOUTH LED FUTURES
Grants for Indigenous organisations working with young people to develop and implement initiatives that address issues important to young Indigenous people and their communities. Indigenous organisation from all areas of Australia – metropolitan, regional and remote – are invited to apply. Contact Tel 03 9670 5436 Website www.youngaustralians.org.
Closing 16 December

NELSON MEERS FOUNDATION GRANTS
The Nelson Meers Foundation exists to enable visual, performing and literary arts' projects which would not otherwise happen. The foundation's key objective is to foster innovative artistic and cultural expression by encouraging and supporting cultural organisations and projects that advance the visual, performing and literary arts. Foundation grants aim to assist programs in establishing their sustainability, so that they may continue to prosper after the term of the grant. Applicants must be a charitable organisation with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) Status. Contact Samantha Meers Nelson Email info@nmfoundation.net Website www.nelsonmeersfoundation.org.au
Closing 31 December

GORDON DARLING FOUNDATION – VISUAL ARTS
The Gordon Darling Foundation assists in promoting the visual arts through public institutions Australia-wide. Support is available for projects of all kinds in the visual arts (other than capital works) and with consideration given to visionary projects that might not otherwise receive funding. Projects will be expected to attract considerable public exposure. Funding is available for catalogues and publications, exhibition development, professional education initiatives (including individual professional development), purchase of commission of artworks of unique/local importance, research projects and symposia. Average grant: $10,000. Contact Tel 03 9820 3168 Email gdarling@vic.bigpond.net.au
Closing 31 December

AUSTRALIAN FILM COMMISSION – DOCUMENTARIES DEVELOPMENT
The AFC has a total pool of $60,000 (max $5,000 per grant) to assist documentary practitioners in the early stages of pitching to attract support. Applicants must be experienced individuals or teams and at least one member must have previously released a documentary screen credit in the role of producer or director. Applications are based foremost on the quality of the work, assessments based on submitted material, the potential for finance and the resume of the team/individual. Contact Tel 02 9321 6444 Email info@afc.gov.au Website www.afc.gov.au
Closing 6 January

QUEENSLAND WRITERS CENTRE – POET IN RESIDENCE 2006
The Queensland Writers Centre, in association with Queensland Poetry Festival and Judith Wright Centre for Contemporary Arts, seeks expressions of interest for its 2006 Poet in Residence. Open to individuals from Australia or overseas. Applicants must be available to live in Brisbane, July–September 2006, and willing to participate in a wide range of programs. Contact Tel 07 3839 1243 Email qldwriters@qwc.asn.au Website www.qwc.asn.au.
Closing 24 January

CHURCHILL FELLOWSHIPS 2006
The Churchill Trust awards around 100 Fellowships a year for people to study or do research overseas. Their basic criterion is that the applicant must have exhausted all avenues available in Australia. Results of the fellowship are made known in June 2006, and travel can start anytime after September 2006, funding a maximum of 8 weeks travel. Each fellowship is typically worth about $25,000 which includes airfares and living/accommodation allowance and may include assistance with tuition. Wesbite www.churchilltrust.com.au
Closing 1 February 2006

DOCITA – CONTEMPORARY MUSIC TOURING PROGRAM
Grants for Australian contemporary musicians who perform original music from country, rock, pop and jazz to folk and Indigenous music to tour within Australia. As well as providing touring opportunities for musicians, the program aims to increase audience access to live and original Australian contemporary music, particularly in rural and regional areas. All professional members of the Australian music industry-including performers, managers, agents, music networks and music organisations representing all contemporary music genres-are eligible to apply. Applications are sought for tours commencing from 1 July 2006. Tel 02 6271 1715 Email music.touring@dcita.gov.au Website www.dcita.gov.au
Closing 7 February 2006

DOCITA – FESTIVALS AUSTRALIA
Provides funding for Australian arts-based projects that enhance the presentation of quality of cultural programs of regional and community festivals. Funding is available to add a new or special sort of cultural activity that has never been done before and could not otherwise be afforded. Applications are sought from organisations that manage festivals for projects commencing from 1 July 2006. Tel 02 6271 1661 Email festivals.australia@dcita.gov.au Website www.dcita.gov.au
Closing 15 February

DOCITA – FESTIVALS AUSTRALIA REGIONAL RESIDENCIES
Provides assistance to regional and remote communities to ‘tell their stories and the stories of their communities’, at local festivals and major one-off community celebrations. Funding is available for artists to undertake a residency for a period of up to 5 weeks to work with communities to express their stories through visual arts/crafts, literature, dance, music, drama or other mediums. Applications are sought from organisations that manage festivals or celebrations for projects commencing from 1 July 2006. Tel 02 6271 1661 Email festivals.australia@dcita.gov.au Website www.dcita.gov.au
Closing 15 February

DOCITA – INDIGENOUS CULTURE SUPPORT
Indigenous Program at DoCITA
Funding for activities that focus on the transfer of cultural knowledge and practices from one generation to the next. These activities, while based on traditional practices, can be developed in a contemporary environment. Program aims: to foster, maintain and preserve regional and local Indigenous arts and cultures and to support community participation in the process of cultural transmission. Contact a DoCITA Program Officer at your nearest Indigenous Coordination Centre (ICC) Freecall 1800 079 098 (ICCS also located at www.indigenous.gov.au) Website www.dcita.gov.au/indig.
Closing 22 February

NATIONAL ARTS & CRAFTS INDUSTRY SUPPORT Indigenous Program at DoCITA
Supporting the development of a strong and sustainable Indigenous visual arts sector through funding for Indigenous art centres and art support and advocacy organisations. Strong Indigenous art centres produce some of Australia's most exciting visual art and can bring significant benefit to communities by building capacity, maintaining culture and generating income and employment opportunities in remote communities. Program aims: to build a strong Indigenous visual arts sector; to support Indigenous art centres to become more sustainable and to assist Indigenous art centres and other organisations to promote their work in the marketplace. Contact a DoCITA Program Officer at your nearest Indigenous Coordination Centre (ICC) Freecall 1800 079 098 (ICCS also located at www.indigenous.gov.au) Website www.dcita.gov.au/indig.
Closing 22 February

MAINTENANCE OF INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES & RECORDS
Indigenous Program at DoCITA
Supporting the strengthening and revival of Indigenous languages through community-based activities. The program recognises that Indigenous languages are central to Indigenous cultures and an integral part of the knowledge passed down from generation to generation. Aims: to support an active network of language and culture centres; to encourage the recording and transcription of languages; to assist the development of language teaching materials and support national initiatives to maintain and strengthen Indigenous languages. Contact a DoCITA Program Officer in your nearest Indigenous Coordination Centre (ICC) Freecall 1800 079 098 (ICCS also located at www.indigenous.gov.au) Website www.dcita.gov.au/indig.
Closing 22 February

ANAT CONFERENCE & WORKSHOP FUND
The Australian Network for Art and Technology's quick response fund for member artists to attend national and international events. Funding is available for travel and registration fees. The closing date for each round is the last day of every month (except December), with applicants notified by the 14th day of the next month. The event being applied for must start no earlier than the 21st of the following month. Maximum funding per grant $2,000. Contact ANAT prior to submitting any application. Tel 08 8231 9037 Email anat@anat.org.au Website www.anat.org.au.
Deadline Ongoing

COMMUNITY ACCESS NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS
The Community Access Network (CAN) was created to link community radio and television stations across metropolitan, rural and remote Australia via the internet. Funds are available to purchase a computer, connect to an ISP and provide basic training for community broadcasters to access online community broadcasting resources. Applicants must be either a long-term licensed community radio station or a long-term licensed community television station. Grants not available for stations broadcasting under a Temporary Community Broadcast License (TCBL) or narrowcast license. Contact Heath Rickard, Grants Administrator Tel 03 9419 8055 Email grants@cbf.com.au Website www.cbf.com.au
Deadline Ongoing

ABC RADO REGIONAL PRODUCTION FUND
Showcases regional talent by providing a means for the ideas of artists and program makers in regional areas to be heard by the wider community. Applicants may submit programs in a variety of genres, including documentary features or series, music segments, drama, comedy, serials, short stories, history, poetry, discussion programs or creative broadcast events. Programs should be suitable for broadcast on any of the ABC's radio networks. Contact Deb Leavitt Tel 08 9220 2781 Email leavitt.deborah@abc.net.au Website www.abc.net.au.
Deadline Ongoing

ISCP AUSTRALIA/USA RESIDENCY PARTNERSHIP – NEW YORK
Partial funding is offered for an Australian artist and curator to participate in the International Studio and Curatorial Program (ISCP) in New York, with a residency tentatively scheduled for Spring 2006. Funding is offered through the ISCP together with the K. David G. Edwards & Margery Edwards Cha