Your third free! monthly e-Bulletin from Regional Arts NSW for 2006 is monumental ... with 144 news stories, highlights of regional arts events, seminars, training and other events and listings of grants, prizes and more.

Contents

Highlights News Regional Arts NSW News Project Updates *** NEW!! *** What's On Seminars, Workshops + Training

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

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Highlights

BIG SCREEN OUTBACK – CLASSIC FILMS IN CLASSIC LOCATIONS
6 – 22 April, Broken Hill, Silverton, Tibooburra, Menindee, Ivanhoe & White Cliffs
The Australian Film Commission's Big Screen is on tour across the remote far western New South Wales taking the most talked about and the best of Australian films to a range of locations. Each screening is introduced by Peter Castaldi and there are some truly great, not-to-be-missed highlights including:
A 30th anniversary screening of Picnic at Hanging Rock with in Sturt Park on 7 April
A one off opportunity to watch Mad Max II in the beer garden at Silverton on 8 April
An outdoor presentation of The Proposition in White Cliffs.
Plus: school screenings of Storm Boy and short films from the AFTRS. Everything you need to know on the AFC website or contact RADO James Giddey at West Darling Arts Tel 08 8087 9035 Website www.afc.gov.au/bigscreen.

JINDABYNE SCULPTURE BY THE LAKE
14 – 16 April, Jindabyne
A free outdoor exhibition featuring dozens of sculptures in a stunning setting on the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne. Sculpture By The Lake is a unique event that draws a big crowd over the Easter weekend (it opens at 10am on Good Friday and closes at 10pm on Easter Sunday). A particular feature of the show is that it can be viewed by night. The majority of works are either lit or directly incorporate light in their design. Sculpture by the Lake is competition with a Major Award of $4,000, a People's Choice, a Youth Award and other prizes. This yea'rs judging panel will be headed by Tess Horwitz from Canberra School of Art and award winners will be announced at a breakfast function on Easter Saturday. Contact SEAR Tel 02 6499 2286 Website www.sear.org.au

Jindabyne Sculpture by the Lake is an initiative of the Snowy River Shire Council with sponsorship from Perisher Blue, Australian Land Company, NuggetsCrossing, Aymblack and National Parks.

IRONFEST 2006 – A HEAVY METAL, VILLAGE FETE FUSION ... FOR ALL THE FAMILY
22 – 23 April, Lithgow
'Newtown grunge meets small town community on a post-industrial site.' Well, that's how Macgregor Ross, founder and director of Ironfest has described it. From its relatively humble beginnings five years ago as an artists' celebration of the birth of steel in Lithgow 100 years ago, Ironfest has grown into a major cultural heritage festival and a celebration of all things iron & metal, and all things medieval, historic ... and alternative. Ironfest brings together a diverse range of local artists, sculptors, blacksmiths, performers and historical re-enactment groups for two days of workshops, presentations, science exhibits & machines, stalls, an eclectic music program and, of course, re-enactments! Ironfest is history, metal, fire, and FUN. Contact Tel 02 6353 1638 Website www.ironfest.com.au.

THE TOM ROBERTS FESTIVAL
21 – 30 April, Inverell
A full ten day festival that celebrates the life, talent and cultural legacy of one of Australia’s most prominent artists. Tom Roberts made several trips to Inverell in the early 1890s, painting a total of 13 works from his visits there. He vividly captured some quintessential moments of the Australian bush lifestyle with his paintings like "Bailed Up" and "The Golden Fleece: Shearing at Newstead”. Although inspired by Roberts, the festival extends far beyond the great artist with a very large range of cultural activities. The program includes four major exhibitions and an auction; three lectures, two quilt competitions; seven creative workshops, music concerts, two one-act plays; a range of local heritage tours and a 150th Birthday street party. The full program is available on the website or Contact Inverell Tourism Tel 02 6728 8161 or the Inverell Cultural and Arts Council Tel 02 6728 8167. Website www.tomrobertsfestival.com.au

The Tom Roberts Festival is presented by Inverell Cultural & Arts Council in conjunction with Best Employment and Inverell Shire Council. Images from the website including top: Shearing Shed at Newstead and 'The Golden Fleece' (1894) by Tom Roberts Collection: Art Gallery of NSW Photograph: Ray Woodbury

11TH CAMDEN HAVEN MUSIC FESTIVAL
22 – 30 April, Camden Haven
Nine days of stupendous music experiences in the heart of the scenic Mid North Coast. Featuring an array of some of Australia's best musicians and performers in various venues throughout Port Macquarie, Laurieton, North Haven and Kendall. Vocal ensembles The Idea of North and Spooky Men's Chorale will be joined by classical groups Flinders Quartet, and Greenway String Quartet, and electric string quartet FourPlay amongst many others. An Indigenous cultural learning experience of children and how to make music using the ordinary and extraordinary things you find around the house. Contact 02 6556 9622 Website www.camdenhavenmusicfestival.org.au

WINDMILL BABY
29 April – 5 May, Wodonga
HotHouse Theatre presents the Yirra Yaakin Aboriginal Corporation production of Windmill Baby, winner of the 2003 Patrick White Award. Against the Kimberley landscape of red dirt and azure blue skies, Aboriginal woman Maymay Starr returns to an abandoned cattle station to tell the story of a life lived beneath the flickering presence of the station windmill – an all-seeing witness to tales of humor, violence, lust, love and loss. Windmill Baby is the new calling card of Indigenous theatre, told with the poetry of a campfire storyteller and the comedy of a great yarn. Tickets $37/$25/$15 Tel 02 6021 7433 Email info@hothousetheatre.com.au Website www.hothousetheatre.com.au

NATIONAL TRUST HERITAGE FESTIVAL –
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE: OUR WORKING LIVES
1 – 16 April, Statewide
There are no less than 430 events on across NSW as part of the Natoinal Trust Heritage Festival which this year has the theme of Industrial Heritage – Our Working Lives. Nearly 250 organisations taking part. The huge calendar of events has something for everyone. As a community celebration, the Heritage Festival combines everything from discovery tours of architectural and environmental heritage sites and a series of fascinating talks, to photography competitions, music concerts, exhibitions, gala events and community fairs. The website is well designed so you can easily look up the variety of events in your local area. Website www.nsw.nationaltrust.org.au

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News

ARTIST PRO HART HAS DIED
One of Australia's most popular artists, the people's painter and brushman of the bush, Pro Hart, has died at his Broken Hill home, aged 77, after a battle with motor neurone disease. A prolific painter as well as a sculptor, Pro Hart's first exhibition sold out after he was discovered by a gallery director in Adelaide in 1960 and he went on to exhibit all over the world. In 1976 he was awarded an MBE for his services to art in Australia and in 1982 received an Honorary Life Membership of Society International Artistique for outstanding artistic achievement, but he was never embraced by the Australian art establishment. Neither the National Gallery of Australia nor the Art Gallery of NSW has ever bought one of his works. A former miner with a strong stubborn streak, Pro Hart was loved by Australians, not just for his iconic images of the outback and bush life, but also for his larrikin persona and great generosity. And he was a Broken Hill man to the end. Hart will be buried in the municipal cemetery in Tuesday, after the first state funeral ever to be held outside Sydney, at the Broken Hill Entertainment Centre (none of the city's churches is big enough).

SEDITION LAW REVIEW
The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) has launched the promised inquiry into the controversial sedition laws introduced by the Federal Government as part of the 'anti-terrorim' legislation last year, but already there are concerns the formal terms of the reference provided the Attorney-General, Philip Ruddock, do not go far enough. The Federal Secretary of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA), Chris Warren, in an online blog, says the review will not address the most important question raised by the sedition laws: do the amendments unacceptably restrict freedom of speech in Australia? More information online. MEAA www.alliance.org.au ALRC www.alrc.gov.au/inquiries/current/sedition/index.htm

ARTIST'S RESALE RIGHTS BILL INTRODUCED
A private member's bill on resale royalties for artists was introduced into Federal Parliament by Labor MP Bob McMullan on 27 March. The Artist’s Resale Rights Bill 2006 recommends that Australia adopt a resale royalty scheme that allows its visual artists to earn a royalty each time their work is resold - similar to writers and composers. The introduction of resale royalties was a key recommendation in the 2002 Myer Inquiry into the Contemporary Visual Arts and Craft Sector and will be of particular benefit to Indigenous artists. The bill has been applauded by the peak body representing the interests of the Australian visual arts and craft sector, the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA), which is strongly supporting the push to introduce legislation similar to that already in place overseas. Websites: Parliament of Australia http://parlinfoweb.aph.gov.au NAVA www.visualarts.net.au.

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NATIONAL ENQUIRY INTO RURAL & REGIONAL WOMEN'S REPRESENTATION
The Federal Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Warren Truss, has used the occasiona of International Women's Day to announce an enquiry into the role of rural and regional women in decision-making bodies in Australia. The enquiry, to be chaired by Senator Judith Toeth, will set out to identify practical strategies to encourage both government and the private sector to more fully utilise the skills and knowledge of talented women in regional Australia. "International Women's Day is a good time to congratulate rural and regional women on their considerable contribution to regional Australia, " Mr Truss said. "Women run businesses and farms and significantly strengthen the economies of regional and rural communities." Submission to the enquiry are invited until 21 April and the panel is expected to make its final report in June. Website www.dotars.gov.au.

SATIRE WINS THE BALD ARCHY
A satirical painting of John Olsen is the winner of this year's Bald Archy Prize. The winning portrait is a satire on Olsen's 2005 Archibald-winning painting, Self Portrait Janus Faced. Matt Adams, 29, of the Central Coast, won the faux-prestigious award with his portrait Brown Stain Janus Faced, showing Olsen standing pants-less holding soiled underwear. The painting is a satirical take on last year's Olsen winner. Bald Archies organiser Peter Batey said there were more than 100 paintings to choose from this year, including a number of portraits of Russell Crowe brandishing a telephone and one of Peter Costello in drag called It's My Liberal Party and I'll Cry If I Want To. The Bald Archy is supposedly judged by Maude, a sulphur-crested cockatoo.

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Regional Arts NSW News

CASP 2006 GRANTS TO BE ANNOUNCED THIS WEEK
The NSW Minister for the Arts, Mr Bob Debus, will announce the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program grants for new arts and cultural projects in regional and rural New South Wales this week. Over 130 grants for new arts projects in communities across the State are expected to be provided by the program this year, delivering essential funding to a diverse range of activities, from workshops to festivals, in a wide range of art forms. Full details, including the list of 2006 CASP grants will be made available on the Regional Arts NSW Website www.regionalartsnsw.com.au.

NEW AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP ON OFFER
5 May, Kendall
The Regional Arts NSW Audience Development Program, with funding from the Australia Council for the Arts, is offering a free workshop for arts organisations on the Mid North Coast next month with its key marketing and audience development personnel, Lisa Andersen and Rachael Vincent. 'Getting Them Going: attracting, engaging and retaining audiences for your art' will introduce strategies to establish and maintain dynamic and ongoing relationships with audiences, with a practical focus on attendees' own events and/or venues. Topics include: audience research; reaching new audiences and marketing. More information on the workshop is provided in our Seminars, Workshops and Training section [below].

NEW NATIONAL ARTS + ENVIRONMENT GROUP – CALL FOR INPUT
Are you aware of any current arts + environment projects?
A new national 'eco-arts' working group to promote the use of the arts in the development of sustainable communities has been formed in response to a presentation about arts and ecology by Janet Cohen at the INSP!RE Conference in September last year. The presentation was the result of Janet’s attendance at an international arts and ecology conference, Earth Rites, in Seattle USA and subsequent study tour of USA arts and environment groups and projects, funded by the Australia Council’s CCD Board. The establishment of a working group was a recommendation of the presentation and conference delegates. Members of the group are: Janet Cohen, Susan Conroy, Paul Brown, Mehreen Faruqi, Cheryle Yin-Lo, Geoff Young, Ray Goodlass, Berenice Gerrand, Ian Plowman, David Curtis and Vic Keighery (CEO of Regional Arts NSW). The first activity of the working group is an audit of current arts + enviroment projects to establish what the current level of activity is, who is doing what, and where. The group would very much appreciate your help. If you are involved in an arts + environment project, or know of others who are, please contact Cheryle Yin Lo to obtain an audit form Mobile 0407 409 445 Email c.yin-lo@bmwhi.org.au.

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AUTUMN ARTREACH OUT SOON
Focus on Infrastructure
The first issue of the Regional Art NSW magazine ArtReach for 2006 will be out next week. ArtReach is a 32 page publication for and about the arts and cultural development in regional, rural and remote New South Wales. Each issue includes news; background information and insights; project stories; listings of print and online resources, grants, prizes and what's on; a double spread of quotes and a handy, pull-out guide to the Regional Arts NSW network including map and contact details. The Autumn 2006 issue is devoted to the topic of infrastructure and features articles on a range of topics including government funding, consultation processes, purpose-built vs adapted buildings, Aboriginal keeping places and more. ArtReach is provided either free-of-charge or by subscription to a list of around 3,000 recipients including local councils, libraries, Aboriginal land councils, arts councils and other community arts groups. (Organisations who can afford to, we ask to subscribe).
Should be on our list but aren't? Like to subscribe?
Contact our Administrative Coordinator, Hannah Sanders, Tel 02 9270 2509 Email admin@regionalartsnsw.com.au.

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Project Reports

3WAYXCHANGE AT THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES
March 2006, Albury | Melbourne
3wAyXchange was a creative collaboration between three of the world's leading youth circuses - The Flying Fruit Fly Circus in Albury Wodonga, the Brewarrina Youth Circus from Brewarrina and Zip Zap Circus from Cape Town in South Africa. Commissioned by Festival Melbourne 2006, the cultural celebration of the Melbourne Commonwealth Games, the 28 member cast of 3wAyXchange (ranging in age from 10 to 25) had just seven days to rehearse before having the distinction of being the first show to open in the Big Top at the Games' cultural festival on 16 March. All three companies are justifiably proud of the show: it featured stunning aerial acts, contortion, juggling, superb clowning and a finale featuring a traditional African dance which the Zip Zap Circus performers have taught their fellow cast members. 3wAyXchange was a cultural exchange that will redefine and reshape the ideals of these young artists for the future. Contact Jane Longhurst, The Flying Fruit Fly Circus
Tel 02 6021 7044 Website www.fruitflycircus.com.au.

NIMBIN'S 39 HOURS SHORT FILM FESTIVAL & COMPETITION
January 2006, Nimbin
It was standing-room-only at Nimbin's Bush Theatre on the night of Sunday 29 January as the crowd gathered to view the completed works and to cheer the presentation of awards to Nimbin's 'golden globers' at the 39 Hours Short Film Festival & Competition. The event, which gives competitors a gruelling schedule in which to make a short film in Nimbin, was organised by the Nimbin Film Industry Group, a sub-branch of the Nimbin CTC. Films had to be scripted and shot, music and effects added, editing and titles, and copies to be delivered to the judges within 39 hours from the 5pm Friday registration time to the strict 10am Sunday morning deadline. Several filmmakers worked until dawn to get their films complete, and the Nimbin CTC provided technical assistance around the clock. The prize for the Best 39 Hour Short Film Award went to Plan B from Kicking Horse Production, which also won Best Male Actor for Simon Moore. Best Production went to The Good Housewife by Shag Pile Productions, which also picked up Best Female Actor for Suellen Howard. The 39 Hour Short Film Festival was sponsored by Lismore City Council, Thursday Plantation and Nimbin Hemp Bar. Website www.nimbinfilmindustry.org.

LIKE TO SEE YOUR ARTS PROJECT PROFILED IN THE E-BULLETIN?
So would we! (Especially if you've received a grant from us). Send us a picture and one paragraph description (including the 'Who', 'What', 'Where', 'When' and 'Why') and we'll be happy to include it in the next edition. See 'Contributions' [below].

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What's On

NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK 2006
1 – 9 April, Statewide
Movie nights, aerosol art workshops, bands, BMX bonanzas, talent quests, dance parties ... there's a huge list of NSW Youth Week activities for young people in regional towns including Armidale, Ballina, Broken Hill, Byron, Cobar, Coffs, Dubbo, Eurobodalla, Goulburn, Gosford, Hay, Hume, Kiama, Newcastle, Scone, Tamworth, Taree, Wagga, Wollongong, Yallaroi and Young - all listed in the excellent Youth Week Website www.youthweek.nsw.gov.au.

MOZART'S DON GIOVANI BY CO-OPERA
April, Various locations
Jenolan Caves: 1 April
Parkes, Leagues Club: 2 April
Taree, Manning Entertainment Centre: 4 April
Warren , Sport and Cultural Centre: 7 April
Dubbo Town Hall: 8 April
Narrabri, The Crossing Theatre: 9 April
Tamworth Town Hall: 12 April
Co-Opera's tour with one of the world's most loved operas, Mozart's Don Giovanni. This new and innovative production is a daring, colourful, fast moving and fun and promises an evening of uninterrupted musical perfection, suitable for the whole family. Go home singing the much loved tunes. Contact Sarah Ferguson, Tel 08 8233 6245 Email coopera@aso.com.au Website www.co-opera.com.au

THIS MONTH AT THE MUSWELLBROOK REGIONAL ARTS CENTRE:
1 April – 21 May, Muswellbrook
Utopia - A Picture Story
A collecton of silk batik works by artists from Utopia in the eastern region of Central Australia. Minatures XI
A recurring invitational exhibition at the gallery. Celebrating 11 years of showcasing artists from the Upper Hunter in a whimsical format.
Contact Tel 02 6549 2333 Email artscentre@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au Website www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au

DRAWING ME HOME
1 – 30 April, St Albans
The first solo exhibition in the Gallery's 2006 program, Victoria Peel's series of paintings and
pastels represents a compelling response to the unique landscape and indigenous heritage of the Macdonald Valley interwoven with a deeply personal narrative that invokes memories of sadness and a sense of loss associated with the area. Contact St Albans Gallery Tel 02 4568 2286
Email stalbansgallery@myisp.net.au

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BRUSH STROKES
2 – 30 April, Evans Head
A group of Northern Rivers artists featuring the work of Margaret E. Brown, Ellen Leo, Barry Mason, Pam Paterson, George Pardon, and Patricia Wilson. Paperbark Gallery Tel 02 6682 5188

ALBURY CITY CULTURAL PRECINCT FESTIVAL: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THE MURRAY CONSERVATORIUM
2 – 9 April, Albury
Albury's Murray Conservatorim has been celebrating its 25th year of operation in 2006 with a series of special events including recitals and its Alternative Music Series. This month it presents four outstanding events as part of the Albury City Cultural Precinct Festival, each designed to showcase a facet of its operation. All events are free and held at the Albury Regional Art Gallery and ACPAC. Contact The Murray Con Tel 02 6041 4249 Email mconserv@postoffice.csu.edu.au

THIS MONTH AT THE GRAFTON REGIONAL GALLERY:
5 April – 21 May, Grafton
Mike Riley: Storm drawings
Dorrigo based artist presents a series of drawings that reflect the stormy weather of the New England Tableland
Contemporary Indigenous Works from the Collection
Gallery collection of contemporary paintings, drawings, sculptures and prints by Indigenous artists of the North Coast of NSW
Desert Stories
A survey of major paintings from senior artists of the central and western desert regions of Australia
Lyndall Adams and Fina Fell
Collaborative self-portraits by the two artists
Contact Tel 02 6642 3177 Email mail@graftongallery.nsw.gov.au

DUNEDOO BUSH POETRY FESTIVAL
6 – 9 April, Dunedoo
Laugh till your sides ache—with all the bush poetry you could ever want in Dunedoo. The Bush Poetry Festival Competition (now in its eighth year) only gets better each time – over 300 people attended in 2005. Highlights of the festival include a bush trip of the local area on Friday during the day, then the “Poet’s Brawl” – an informal evening of walk-up poetry, yarns and music. The competition is held on Saturday afternoon and evening, with community markets held in the morning. Top it all off with a “Breakfast with the Poets” event on Sunday morning. Contact Dunedoo District Development Group Tel 02 6375 1975.

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ORACLES OF THE BUSH
7 – 9 April, Tenterfield
The annual four day festival of Australian verse, bush poetry and song, celebrating its 10th year. Oracles of the Bush gives old bush legends the chance to recite their favourites; and young, upcoming poets to test their writing talent on a seasoned audience. Various venues in Tenterfield. Contact Tenterfield Visitor Information Centre Tel 02 6736 1082 Website www.oraclesofthebush.com

FLIX IN THE STIX – SPECIAL YOUTH SCREENINGS
7 April, Coonabarabran
Two special Youth Week screenings for youth only (ages 12 - 25). Featuring the latest in the hugely popular Wallace and Gromit film series, Wallace and Gromit: the Curse of the Were-Rabbit (animation/adventure) and Serenity (action/sci fi). Tickets just $8 or $6 Concession. Don't miss this special screening!
At the Coonabarabran Dramatic Society Hall, John Street, 6pm.
Contact Coonabarabran Arts Council Tel 02 6825 4364.

EASTER EXHIBITION
7 April – 7 May, Alstonville
More than 30 artists, from local towns and interstate displaying works at The Kolinda Gallery. Some locals include Tom Offord, Katherine Castle, Mark Waller, David Lane, Di Ingram. Tel 02 6628 0297 Website www.kolinda.com.au

MOZART UNDER MOONLIGHT
7 April, Warren
You don’t have to go to a major centre for a quality open air performance! Celebrate autumn in the country and join the Warren Arts Council and Co-opera when they present the Mozart classic, Don Giovanni at Warren’s Victoria Oval on Friday 7th April. This annual event is drawing larger and larger crowds where you can pack a picnic, relax with friends and experience the magic of opera outdoors. Gates open 6pm for a 7pm performance. Tickets are $32 adult, $28 Warren Arts Council members, $10 children and must be bought in advance. Contact Audrey Weston Tel 02 6847 3136 Website www.co-opera.com.au

BRIGADOON AT BUNDANOON
8 April, Bundanoon
A day for anyone who is Scottish with massed pipe bands, Scottish games, Highland Dancing, Highland Cavaliers and many more events together with 150 specialty crafts, souvenirs and food stalls. Tel 02 4883 7471 Website www.highlandsnsw.com

TAIKOZ
8 April, Bellingen
Pounding Wave - a brand new show with all the exciting sounds and spectacular visual appeal as before. At the Bellingen Memorial Hall. Tickets $45/$35. Also workshops to be run by the Bellingen Jazz Society. Contact Dorothy or Mauri Tel 02 6655 1053 Email bellmus@midcoast.com.au Website www.bellingenjazz.holidaycoast.com.au.

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FACING THE LAKE
8 – 30 April, Collector
Portraits by Kerry McInnis, Sculpture by Mike MacGregor, Photomedia works by Barbie Robinson, Stories by Philippa Kelly and Pauline McGuire. To be opened on 8 April at 2pm by Pamela Clelland-Gray, Manager Education and Public Programs National Portrait Gallery. Collector Gallery Tel 02 4848 0073

RED OCHRE FESTIVAL
10 – 15 April, Dubbo
A week-long celebration of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal culture culminating in two main events at the end of the week: a day of entertainment and the Red Ochre Ball. The program includes a corroboree performed by up to 60 traditional dancers from tribal nations across the state, local singers and musicians and a fashion show by young Aboriginal girls and boys, plus the chart-topping super duo Shakaya. Food and refreshments are available. Alcohol-free entertainment. Supervised children's activities (face painting, games etc.) Local (Dubbo) singers and musicians: Shane Chatfield and Band, Shakaya and tribal dancers performing a corroboree. Bring a chair or picnic rug. Contact Tel 0419 620 758 Email s.hodder@bigpond.net.au

CORNELIUS DELANEY
11 - 20 April, Lismore
An exhibition of paintings, artist's books and drawings that are a carnivalesque response to a range of cultural, social and academic texts. NEXT Contemporary Art Space Tel 02 6626 9421 Email nextart@scu.edu.au

GILGANDRA EMBROIDERY EXHIBITION
13 April, Gilgandra
An exhibition of works by the Gilgandra Embroidery Group featuring beautiful handmade pieces by members of the group. At the Gilgandra Coo-ee Heritage Centre, Newell Highway.
Contact Tel 02 6847 2045.

SIGNATURES
13 – 27 April, Moruya
An exhibition in the beautiful heritage listed Mechanics Institute of works by several internationally acclaimed contemporary artists: Brigitte Enders, Patricia Goff, Kerry Johns, Klaus Moje and Charles Reddington. A selection of early to recent works. Come and discover the processes, creative influences and expertise these artists bring to the South Coast. The program includes floor talks by Charles Reddington on 14 April at 11am and by Patricia Goff on 18 April at noon. Presented by SEAR & the Eurobodalla Shire Council. Contact Jan Lewis, Curator, Tel 02 4472 4345

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THIS MONTH AT THE LAKE MACQUARIE ART GALLERY:
14 April – 21 May, Booragul
Pojagi and Beyond
Traditional Korean patchwork wrapping cloths, Chogakpo pojagi are reinterpreted by Chunghie Lee in a her contemporary practice earning international acclaim.
Ceramic Surface
Six artists from the Hunter and Central Coast regions animate the surfaces of clay.
Contact Tel 02 4965 8260 Email artgallery@lakemac.nsw.gov.au Website www.lakemac.com.au

FOUR WINDS EASTER MUSIC FESTIVAL
15 – 16 April, Bermagui
Set in a beautiful natural outdoor amphitheatre just south of Bermagui, the Four Winds Festival is a popular biannual calendar event on the South Coast of NSW. Since its conception in 1991, the festival has offered patrons the chance to see some of the best national and international musicians playing contemporary and classical works, across a wide spectrum of musical genres. This year is no exception. The twelfth program opens with a free concert 'Bach by the Beach', and the following days will feature Ross Edwards and Elena Kats-Chernin, Terry Riley from the USA and the festival's guest of honour, Peter Sculthorpe. Bring a picnic and a rug, or sample some of the fantastic food and wine stalls on-site. 2-day and 1-day ticket options. Contact Tel 02 6493 3414 Email admin@fourwinds.com.au Website www.fourwinds.com.au

22ND TILBA EASTER FESTIVAL
15 April, Tilba
After a five year break, the Tilba Easter Festival is finally back on! This great highlight of South Coast events is promising to be even more exciting than the last one when the old village of Central Tilba expanded its population from 100 to 10,000. Fun and entertainment for all ages will include live music from three stages, roaming street performers, hilarious street games with prizes, art show and craft demonstrations, market stalls, lots of yummy food and more!

MUSIC AT THE GAOL
16 April, South West Rocks
South West Rocks Arts Council In Conjunction with National Parks & Wildlife Service present Live Music at Trial Bay Gaol. Lea Gillard's Rock Chic will be playing at the concert which will be from 1 - 4pm. Family Entertainment, BYO chairs, picnic, blankets, drinks (no glass) There’s limited shade so feel free to bring an umbrella, don’t forget hats or sunscreen. Adults $5 Children $3. Contact Nerida Osborne Tel 02 6566 6769 Website www.rockchicband.blogspot.com

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SUNRISE
Until 21 April, Murwillumbah
Works by Irma Roskam on display at the Escape Gallery. Tel 02 6672 2433 Email gallery@escapeart.com.au Website www.escapeart.com.au

ST ALBANS FOLK FESTIVAL
21 – 25 April, St Albans
Four big days and nights of music, fun and frivolity presented by some of Australia's best folk musicians, dance presenters, poets and singers in a unique atmosphere centred on the historic village of St Albans on the banks of the McDonald River. Performing in various venues around town , visitors will be able to enjoy a wide variety of music in unique settings. There will be a children's festival, lots of stalls, dancing, poets' breakfasts, workshops and nightly informal singing sessions around camp fires all included in the price of an entry ticket. Season tickets are $60. Tel 02 9528 2193 Wesbite www.snalbans.iwarp.com

ST ALBANS FOLK FESTIVAL - SPECIAL ANZAC DAY CONCERT
26 April, St Albans
See Mic Conway and his National Junk Band; The Shuffle Kings Trio with special guest Jim Conway; the Jimmi Hendrix of the ukulele, Azo Bell; 2/3 Jigzag; and the Sommers Family all combining in an unforgettable event from 10am ‘till 4pm. Many of the individual performers in these well known acts have known each other and played music together for many years and this is the first time that they will be able to collaborate together on the one bill in the one concert culminating in a huge jam. Cost $30 Tel 02 4958 4033 Email snalbanstickets@optusnet.com.au

LAND OUT OF TIME
Until 21 April, Cowra
Featuring 18 artists who have revisited sites in the Blue Mountains previously painted by 19th Century landscape artists. Works that reflect and respond to the changes that have occurred over time and their impact on the environment. The exhibition explores the landscape in which the art is made, together with the responses of artists as they look back to the past by and consider the role of the landscape artist today. Tel 02 6340 2190 Email cowraartgallery@cowra.nsw.gov.au.

BACK TO BOWRA FESTIVAL
21 – 23 April, Bowraville
'Back to Bowra' Festival is set in the beautiful heritage listed main street of Bowraville. 2006 will be the 31st Celebration of this traditional country style festival that attracts many visitors and past residents of Bowraville. The festival hosts traditional events such as the Mullins Ride, the light horse troop, the grand parade, gumboot throwing, the business house relay & tug-o-war, whip cracking and reunions, to name a few. This is the festival of the town and there is strong community collaboration that unites, culture, traditions, businesses and community services to provide an annual festival that is uniquely local and Bowraville. Contact Tel 02 6564 7895 Email backtobowra@yahoo.com.au.

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OUR VALLEY, OUR PEOPLE
Until 22 April, Murwillumbah
Through objects, stories and photographs from the collections of Tweed River Regional Museum, this exhibition explores the work, leisure, pleasures and aspirations of the people of the Tweed one hundred years ago. At the Tweed River Regional Museum Tel 02 6670 2500 Email swatterson@tweed.nsw.gov.au Website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au

FIBRE FORUM 2006
23 – 29 April, Orange
A fabulous lineup of textile workshops with some of the country's most notable artists at the Kinross Wollaroi School. Public Open House on the morning of Saturday 29, with displays of work from the week and a Selling Bazaar. This has become one of Australia’s foremost textile events. Contact Janet de Boer Tel 07 3300 6491.

PHILANTHROPY SHOWCASE
25 April, Orange
Works from Orange Reginal Gallery's permanent collection in a display designed to emphasise the importance of philanthropy in Australian arts. All the works have been donated from individuals or bodies, some with the assistance of the NSW Ministry for the Arts and the Australia Council. Tel 02 6393 8136 Website www.org.nsw.gov.au.

GANGA GIRL
29 April, Bangalow
New CD Launch at Bangalow A & I Hall. Ganga mixes pumping percussive didj with fat tribal beats, funky dub bass lines and world percussion to provide a unique tribal technological deep earth dance experience. His music is a multilayered experience of complex grooves and raw natural sounds. Tickets $18/$15 at the door. Tel 02 6684 7921 Email kupromo@bigpond.net.au

VISION AUSTRALIA VARIETY CONCERT
29 April, Dubbo
Charity concert for Vision Australia - formerly the Royal Blind Soceity - featuring local talent. Come along for a great night and meet with leading local performers. Tickets available in Tim Koertz Pharmacy and Tony Burgun Optometrist in Macquarie St. Wesley Hall, Church St Dubbo. From 7.00pm. Contact Tel 02 6882 0498.

SALLY HIEATT: INSTINCT
Until 30 April, Lake George
The acrylic paintings in this show reflect images of Lake George and its surrounds in an unusual way. Part of the Weerewa Festival of Lake George. Free exhibition at the Madew Wines & grapefoodwine. Contact Tel 02 4848 0026 Website www.weereewafestival.org

SWIMMING WITH FISHES
Until 30 April, Chinderah Bay
Vanessa Bryant’s exhibition work reflects on the polarities of our times. Through vibrant and brooding oil paintings, photographic and digital prints, sound and fabric work Bryant reflects on human nature – in all its darkness and light. Curious Art Tel 02 6674 5340 Email curart@bigpond.net.au Website www.curiousart.org.au.

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2006 HASTINGS CHORAL FESTIVAL
6 – 7 May, Port Macquarie
This year's festival 'A Weekend of Song' will offer workshops in Gospel, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Gregorian Chant, Baroque/Bach and concerts by leading musicians. Contact Robyn Ryan Mob 0407 007 993 Email gillianbennett@optusnet.com.au Website www.midcoast.com.au

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6 – 7 April, Lismore & 11 – 12 April, Orange
Company B Belvoir presents the inspiring – and sellout – show by David Page, Bangarra Dance Theatre's composer. David tells his captivating story of growing up in a Brisbane housing estate as the eighth of twelve children in the celebrated and creative Page clan. The regional tour follows a successful national tour earlier this year and a stint at the New Zealand International Arts Festival.
– "A beautifully crafted and wonderfully performed piece of autobiographical theatre ... David Page is extraordinary." The Sydney Morning Herald, 2004
Bookings NORPA Tel 02 6622 0300 Email info2006@norpa.org.au
Orange Civic Theatre Tel 02 6393 8111

THIS MONTH AT THE BATHURST REGIONAL ART GALLERY:
Until 16 April
Rodney Milgate: 14 Stations of the Cross
A timely Easter exhibition featuring works from the award-winning artist.
Until 7 May
Henrietta Manning: In Face of Isolation
Melbourne-based showcasing portraits of over 50 locals and the entire public school of Hill End.
Ranamok 2005
The 11th Ranamok Glass Prize showcases the best and most diverse glasswork from Australia and New Zealand.
Luminous - Contemporary art from the Australian desert
Works exploring the influence of light, colour and tradition on contemporary Aboriginal artists from the Northern and Central desert regions of Australia.
Contact Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Tel 02 6331 6066 Email brag@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

SHAKESPEARE ON AVON FESTIVAL
12 – 13 May, Gloucester
The Conservatorium, School of Music and Drama, University of Newcastle are returning to give their unique interpretation of Love’s Labour’s Lost. Early English Feast prior to Friday and Saturday night’s performances and after the Saturday Matinee. A selection of local wines will be available to enhance the dining pleasure. Feast served at 6.30pm, Evening Performances start at 8.30pm, Saturday Matinee 2pm. Contact Tel 02 6558 1408 Website www.gloucester.org.au/shakespeare.

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BOOM BABY BOOM
Until 14 May, Wagga Wagga
Boom Baby Boom brings together a group of artists who are of the Baby Boomer generation (born 1945-1964) or immediately adjacent to that period (the Silent Generation born 1923-1944) or Generation X (born 1963-1982). The exhibition presents the artists' views on the impact and influence of the Baby Boomer generation: the people, objects and events that shaped the generation and the issues facing the ageing Baby Boomer population. At the Museum of the Riverina Tel 02 6926 9655
Website www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/museum.

WOOLSHEDS & SHEARERS' QUARTERS
Until end May, Hay
Fine art photographer Alison Bennett was struck by the sensation of an old empty woolshed when she first encountered one in outback NSW. With the assistance of Shear Outback, the Shearers’ Hall of Fame, she was able to access significant woolsheds on the Hay Plains in NSW. The result is a touring exhibition, on display at Shear Outback. The exhibition will also tour to Museum of the Riverina (Wagga NSW), and the National Wool Museum (Geelong Vic). Contact Kim Biggs Tel 02 6993 4000 Email museumdirector@shearoutback.com.au Website www.shearoutback.com.au

COME BY CHANCE
Until 25 June, Dubbo
The complete set of illustrations from Madeleine Winch's picture book Come By Chance are on display at Dubbo Regional Gallery Exhibition Space, Macquarie Regional Library. Based on a real-life story of two residents of Stuart Town, it is the story of a young woman who comes across a little cottage near Stuart Town, settles in with all the animals from the district and provides refuge from winter until spring returns. Purchased through a fundraising drive in 2001, the collection is a cherished part of the Gallery's collection. At DRG Exhibition Space, Macquarie Regional Library. Contact Tel 02 6801 4430.

BYRON BAY WRITER'S FESTIVAL
3 – 6 August, Byron Bay
Early Bird passes for the 2006 Byron Bay Writers Festival are now on sale. This year's Festival will once again be held in the lush grounds of the Byron Bay Beach Resort. Festival dates are 3-6 August with workshops beginning on Monday 31 July. Purchase tickets now at a discounted rate prior to the release of the official program in June. Last year all three days of the Festival sold out last. Early Bird 3-day passes cost $145/$125 Contact Jetset Byron Bay Tel 02 6685 6262 or 02 6685 6554 Website www.byronbaywritersfestival.com.au

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Seminars, Workshops + Training

CREATIVE VOLUNTEERING WORKSHOPS
April, Various Locations
Creative Volunteering - No Limits is a package of six self-contained one-day workshops that focus on the practical challenges that face every community organisation where volunteers do most of the work. Come and discover some fantastic tricks and insights you never thought of. Each workshop costs just $25, including refreshments and some excellent course materials to take home. Four workshops are on offer this month:
5 April - Carry out Business Planning - Nabiac
8 April - Plan and Program Events - Bourke
22 April - Develop Funds and Resources - Albury
22 April - Network within Communities - Moruya
Coming up in May: workshops in Tuncurry, Walgett, Dubbo and Warren. Full workshop schedule + how to enrol online on the Regional Arts NSW website or Contact Tel 02 9270 2509 Email admin@regionalartsnsw.com.au Website www.regionalartsnsw.com.au

WORKSHOP & EXHIBITION – 'FRESH SEASON'
8 April, Dubbo
Presented as part of Fresh Arts 06 – Fresh and Fruity: A Festival for the Senses. Artists are encouraged to respond creatively to the environment of the vineyard using paper and mixed media. At Red Earth Estate Vineyard, Dubbo. From 10am. Contact Tel 02 6884 3573 Email rgalway@bigpond.net.au

MUSIC EDUCATION FORUM
19 April, Tilba
If you are interested or involved in music education, a free half day forum is being held at the Tilba Hall to canvas issues and strategies to help develop music education opportunities in the South East region. Keynote speaker will be international guest, Terry Sprag from the Manukau Symphony Orchestra and Howick School of Music in New Zealand. He has over 30 years experience of music education in the community. The forum is intended for teachers, musicians, educators and interested parents. Contact Penny Bonnell Tel 02 4474 1088 Email pbonnell@sear.org.au.

GRAFTON ARTSFEST
19 – 22 April, Grafton
Professionally tutored workshops at affordable prices - painting/drawing, woodwork, sculpture, glass/jewellery, textiles. There will be 27 four-day workshops, concerts and exhibitions. Online enrolment is available. Contact Grafton Artsfest Tel 02 6643 1528 Email artsfestgrafton@bigpond.com Website www.artsfestgrafton.com

SONGWRITERS' WORKSHOP
29 April, Dubbo
Learn how to compose your songs with renowned singer-songwriter Allan Caswell. Presented by Orana Country Music Association. Cost: $35/$20. At the Dubbo RSL Theatrette foyer, 10.00am-4.00pm. Contact Tel 02 6884 6279 Email cruzado.liberal@ruralpress.com.

METROSCREEN DESIGN & ANIMATION COURSE
May – October, Newcastle
Metro Screen’s Mobile Unit is offering Certificate III in Multimedia open to residents of Newcastle and the surrounding areas at subsidised fees. No technical skill or previous experience is required. This five month practical course will offer students the knowledge and skills to produce digital design and animation's for screen productions, including feature films. Also offers the opportunity for potential work placement arrangements on graduation. With generous funding from NSWFTO and the NSW Department of Education and Training, Metro Screen is able to offer this course to twelve participants for an administration fee of $275 per participant (valued at $6480). Contact Metro Screen's Mobile Unit Coordinator Melissa Anastasi Tel 02 9361 5318 Email mobileunit@metroscreen.org.au Website www.metroscreen.org.au
Closing 28 April

GETTING THEM GOING: ATTRACTING, ENGAGING & RETAINING AUDIENCES FOR YOUR ART
5 May, Kendall
The Regional Arts NSW Audience Development Program presents a free workshop for arts organisations with its key marketing and audience development personnel, Lisa Andersen and Rachael Vincent. The workshop will be a one-day intensive offering tailor-made, practical help and inspiration for anyone whose group or activity relies on attracting (and keeping) an audience including:
arts councils
music societies
theatre groups
cultural festival and event organisers.
The workshop will introduce strategies to establish and maintain dynamic and ongoing relationships with audiences, with a focus on attendees' own events and/or venues, and include case studies, information sharing, discussions and hands-on activities. Participants will be asked to prepare in advance for the day by providing an audit of their current audiences and marketing. Ongoing resources and expertise to help put ideas into practice will also be offered after the workshop. Places are limited to twelve and allocated on a first come, first served basis. Contact Arts Mid North Coast Tel 02 6658 9400 Email arts@midcoast.com.au Website www.artsmidnorthcoast.org.

Presented by the Regional Arts NSW Audience Development Program with funding from the Australia Council for the Arts.

WRITING FOR PROFIT
6 May, Armidale
The New England Writers Centre is hosting a workshop facilitated by Lesley Sly, Freelance Journalist. Learn how to write about your interests, for newspapers and magazines - and make money. Topics covered include creating story ideas, pitching to editors, writing in various styles, sub-editing and syndicating. The workshop will run from 10am - 4pm and costs $45/$35. Contact Tel 02 6772 7210 Email newc@nsw.chariot.net.au Website www.nse.chariot.net.au

WRITE IN THE HEART
10 – 12 June, Condobolin
A festival for readers and writers and lovers of literature. Grab some inspiration and motivation over the long weekend in June in the Heart of NSW, Condobolin. The theme of the festival is 'Life Stories' and the program includes panel discussions; authors readings; workshops with Les Murray, Irina Dunn and Rae Luckie; a bush poets breakfast along with songs, yarns and stories by locals of history, events and people of the district. The weekend promises to provide story opportunities, learning, inspiration, lots of fun and country camaraderie. Special travel packages are available. Contact Helen Dalton, Coordinator Tel 02 6895 7636 Website www.heartofnsw.com.au.

Hosted by Western Plains Regional Development Inc and the Lachlan Arts Council with funding assistance from the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund.

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MITCHELL SCHOOL OF ARTS
9 – 14 July, Bathurst
CSU's Mitchell School at Arts is now taking enrollments for the upcoming Winter School. This year there are over 30 painting and drawing workshops to choose from, including beginner through to advanced levels. New for the Winter School is the addition of a fiction and poetry workshop, presented by the Central West Writers Centre. Enrollment is open to anyone with a passion to develop and explore their creative potential, so come and experience 5 days of intensive artistic growth at CSU's Bathurst campus this Winter. Contact Tel 02 6338 4120 Email commed@csu.edu.au Website www.csu.edu.au.

THE PACIFIC EDGE – 2006 RAA NATIONAL CONFERENCE
14 – 17 September, Mackay, Qld
Program Launch / Registrations Open – 10 April
Part conference, part festival, all art! Regional Arts Australia's biennial national conference will be held in Mackay, Queensland, this year. The creative minds at the conference head office have been immersed in programming for the last two months, following the receipt of over 300 concept submissions and the result is a program, to be launched on 10 April, with six strands:
People & Place Youth Arts & Education Growing Audiences
Festivals Arts Business and New Work - New Idea
The Pacific Edge will be the largest regional arts conference in Australia, bringing together people from all over the country as well as international speakers. Earlybird registrations - which will be available online - open on 10 April, offering the chance to win a a trip exploring the beautiful Whitsundays. Contact Adele Graves Tel 07 3004 7560 Website www.thepacificedge.com.au.
Earlybird Registrations Close 24 July

Grants, Fellowships + Residencies

VOLUNTARY INITIATED MUSEUM (VIM) SMALL GRANT PROGRAM 2006
The VIM (Volunteer Initiated Museum) grant program responds to the needs of volunteer managed museums and is guided by MGnsws Volunteer Reference Committee (made up of representatives across the volunteer museum sector). The VIM program, funded by NSW Ministry for the Arts, comprises three grants: Leg Ups, VIM small grants, and VIM development project grants. These grants address the skill development, operational and forward planning needs of NSW's community museums. Contact Megan Barham, Project Officer Tel 02 9339 9913, free call 1800 114 311 (regional NSW) Email meganb@mgnsw.org.au Website www.mgnsw.org.au
Closing 7 April

ROBERT HELPMANN DANCE SCHOLARSHIP
The $30,000 Robert Helpmann Scholarship is offered biennially by the NSW Government to assist a professional dancer or choreographer to further develop their career by supporting a specific artistic program put forward by the applicant. Contact the NSW Ministry for the Arts Tel 02 9228 5533 Freecall 1800 358 594 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 7 April

AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS
Grants in a number of categories with upcoming dates are summarised here. Applicants should check the Australia Council's website or contact the Australia Council for a copy of the 2006 handbook before applying. Contact Freecall 1800 226 912 Email handbook@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au

Visual Arts Board
New Work
Fellowships
Program Grants
Closing 15 April

Inter-Arts Office
New Work
Skills & Arts Development
Skills & Arts Development International Residency
Fellowships
Closing 15 April
Hybrid Art Program
Hybrid Art Fellowship
Closing 1 May

Dance Board
New Work
Skills & Arts Development
Closing 15 May

Literature Board
New Work
Presentation and Promotion
Skills & Arts Development
Fellowships
Writers' Emeritus Award
Closing 15 May

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NSW INDIGENOUS ARTS FELLOWSHIP
The $15,000 biennial NSW Indigenous Arts Fellowship was established in 1996 by the Government in partnership with Sydney City Council to assist an Indigenous artist to further develop their career. Activities assisted through the fellowship may include further study or training, professional research or the undertaking of a particular arts project. It is expected that the specific proposal put forward by the applicant will result in artistic work of significant quality and be of lasting benefit to the applicant's professional development. Contact the NSW Ministry for the Arts Tel 02 9228 5533 Freecall 1800 358 594 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 5 May

NSW HISTORY FELLOWSHIP
Offered annually by the NSW Government to assist a person living in New South Wales to research and produce a work on a subject of historical interest relating to New South Wales. Contact the NSW Ministry for the Arts Tel 02 9228 5533 Freecall 1800 358 594 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 12 May

NSW INDIGENOUS HISTORY FELLOWSHIP
A biennial award to assist a person living in NSW to research and produce a work on a subject of historical interest relating to New South Wales from an Indigenous point of view. Applicants may be independent historians, or historians working in conjunction with Indigenous communities. Contact the NSW Ministry for the Arts Tel 02 9228 5533 Freecall 1800 358 594 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 12 May

NSW MINISTRY FOR THE ARTS CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM
Grants in a number of categories with upcoming closing dates are summarised here. Applicants should check the NSW Ministry for the Arts website or obtain a copy of the Guidelines from the NSW Minstry for the Arts before applying. Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au

Literature and History Program
Projects
Closing 12 May

Museums Program
Projects
Closing 26 May

Music Program
Projects
Closing 19 May

Visual Arts and Crafts Program
Annual operations and staffing
Projects
Public Art
Strategic Initiatives
Closing 19 May

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2006 SIGANTO TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP
A biennial $7,000 bursary to provide professional development opportunities through travel, open to emerging practitioners in the fields of visual arts, craft and design. Examples of projects funded by the scholarship include (but are not limited to) attendance at international and interstate conferences, residencies and masterclasses, and international research projects used to access resources unavailable in Australia. Contact Tel 07 3215 0850 (1300 780 291 outside Brisbane) Email info@artworkers.org Website www.artworkers.org. (Please note all applicants must be current members of Artworkers).
Closing 7 August

BOB MAZA FELLOWSHIP
An Australian Film Commission fellowship awarded to an established Indigenous actor to further their professional development, provide longevity in their career and raise their profile internationally. The $10,000 award must be used for international travel, further training or short courses at an international film training institution, and for meeting with agents, castings and establishing contacts in the international arena. Guidelines and application forms can be obtained from the AFC website. Website www.afc.gov.au
Closing 20 April

THE MACQUARIE BANK FOUNDATION LONGLINES PROGRAM
All writers working in regional areas of New South Wales are eligible to apply for the Macquarie Bank Foundation Longlines Fellowship and Masterclasses. The fellowship gives a regional NSW writer two weeks at Varuna, 'The Writers' House' in Katoomba, and there are 15 places available for writers from the less populous states and territories and from regional areas in the annual one-week Masterclasses. Contact Website www.varuna.com.au
Closing 30 April

SPARK 2006: 'CREATIVE FRICTION'
Applications for SPARK are now open to young artists and artsworkers (18 - 26) from all over Australia, in theatre, dance and visual artforms. SPARK is a national mentoring program that assists young artists in establishing a professional career in the arts. Successful applicants are provided with support, training, advice and funding in making new work. Contact Tel 07 3252 5115 Email spark@yaq.org.au Website www.yaq.org.au
Closing 6 May

WINDMILL TRUST SCHOLARSHIP FOR REGIONAL ARTISTS
Assisting professional visual artists from regional and rural areas in NSW (and now also available to ACT residents), the Windmill Trust annual scholarship is valued at $5,000 and is awarded to subsidise the costs of mounting an exhibition or undertaking further study. This trust has been designed to assist regional visual artists who:
are working broadly in the areas of painting, printmaking, sculpture, drawing or photography
are professional artists who have pursued a successful career in the visual arts
would like to develop and continue their career
need financial assistance to do so
are an Australian citizen and NSW or ACT resident and who
live more than 70 km from the Sydney GPO.
Contact NAVA Tel 02 9368 1900 Email nava@visualarts.net.au Website www.visualarts.net.au
Closing 9 May

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MONARO YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP
Entries are now open for the young people aged 16 - 21 years who are interested in pursuing a career or vocation in any form of the arts. Up for $1,000 is available to assist a young person to undertake further study, a work placement or attend a conference or training program. This scholarship is supported by Berridale Lions and Cooma Rotary. Contact SEAR 1300 667 136
Closing 31 May

2007 ANNE AND GORDON SAMSTAG INTERNATIONAL VISUAL ARTS SCHOLARSHIPS
The University of South Australia offers the scholarships on behalf of the Trustee of the estate of Gordon Samstag, late of Naples, Florida USA. Each 2007 scholarship includes, for twelve months of overseas study, a tax-exempt stipend equivalent to US$32,000, plus return airfares and institutional fees for one academic year. Email samstag@unisa.edu.au Website www.unisa.edu.au
Closing 30 June

MICRO-FINANCE FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
A cicro finance fund from Enterprise Network for Young Australians. Offers interest-free micro loans to young people wishing to establish a business. Grants up to $2,000 in an interest-free loan for the purchase of capital equipment. Contact Romina Dein Tel 1300 136 921 Website www.enya.org.au
Applications open all year round

DON'T FORGET: MORE GRANTS & PRIZES ONLINE
Our 'no repeats' policy means there are always other grants and prizes online in the e-Bulletin archive [here]. Everything is listed in order of closing date.

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Competitions, Awards + Prizes

43RD CURRABUBULA RED CROSS ART EXHIBITION
11 – 14 May, Currabubula
Entries now sought for this annual show at the Currabubula War Memorial Hall. The show is a fundraising event for the local Red Cross and in its 43 year history in excess of half a million dollars has been raised. The prize pool for the 2006 exhibition, which will be judged by Australian artist Patrick Carroll, is $8,500. The winner of the Winsome Busby Memorial Prize for Champion Picture will be awarded $5,000. A highlight of this year’s exhibition will be sculpture, with local artists Francios Jaggi from Armidale and Norman Organ from Dubbo being the feature artists. Also on display will be silver and costume jewellery, fine embroidery and woodwork. To compliment the exhibition there will also be daily painting demonstrations. Contact Kay Pittman Tel 02 6768 9075 or Nerelle Charles Email jonell@ozemail.com.au
Closing 21 April

BLACKSMITHS COMPETITION
22 – 23 April, Lithgow
The Ironfest Inc committee will be holding blacksmithing competitions as part of this year’s Ironfest event, to be held at the Lithgow Showground, from 10.00am (see Highlights above). There will be two events to be held over two days. There is $1,250 in prizes up for grabs over the weekend. Application and registration forms can be downloaded from the Ironfest website www.ironfest.com.au.

FREEDOM WRITERS – HUMAN RIGHTS & FREEDOM LITERARY AWARD
Presented by Amnesty International Australia, NSW Human Rights and Security Network, Freedom Writers aims to provide an outlet for amateur, unpublished and recreational writers of all ages to express their individual concepts in a creative context whilst drawing attention to human rights and humanitarian polemics. Entries are open in three categories: poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Contact Email nswhrsteam@amnesty.org.au Website http://nsw.amnesty.org.au
Closing 27 April

IAA NATIONAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN HERITAGE INTERPRETATION
Nominations now open for this award recognising Interpretation Australia Association (IAA) members who have been responsible for crafting excellent heritage interpretation projects, in the categories of Spoken Word and Media Projects. This annual award helps foster greater professional and community awareness of interpretation and encourages the exchange of new ideas. Contact Tel 08 8553 4418 Website www.interpretationaustralia.asn.au
Closing 30 April

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THREDBO BUSKERS & STREET PERFORMERS COMPETITION
10 – 11 June, Thredbo
Thredbo will be buzzing over the June long weekend with entertainment, activities and a massive fireworks display to help kick off the official opening of Thredbo's winter season! Buskers and Street Performers are invited to perform in Thredbo to help celebrate the opening of the winter season on the weekend of 10 - 11 June. Acts selected to perform will be in the running to share in a $2,000 prize pool. Each act will be required to complete 2 x 1 hour performances over the weekend and will receive three nights accommodation in Thredbo and a $100 travel allowance. Entry form online or Contact Nicole Hain Tel 02 6459 4100 Email marketing@thredbo.com.au Website www.thredbo.com.au.
Closing 8 May

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL PIANO AWARD
The Award is held biennially in the City of Greater Shepparton in Victoria for pianists who are Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia, and who are aged between 21 - 35 years. The aim is to provide a competition of the highest calibre, nationally and internationally recognised for its standard of excellence, its challenge to the participants and its educational benefits. Total prize value $32,000, first prize $15,000. Contact Tel 03 5821 5326 Email info@pianoaward.com.au Website www.pianoaward.com.au
Closing 12 May

2006 SHOALHAVEN LITERARY AWARD
This biennial award aims to recognise literary excellence and to enhance the image of the Shoalhaven as a place of strong cultural development. Main prize $1,000, plus a two-week residential at the Arthur Boyd Bundanon Centre. Four secondary prizes of $200 each. Contact the Arts Development Manager, Shoalhaven City Council Tel 02 4429 3541 Email Baptist@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.shoalhaven.net.au
Closing 26 May

DISCOVERY ART SHOW
15 - 30 July, Melbourne
Entries are now open for the 2006 Discovery Art Show to be held at the Gasworks Arts Park in Melbourne later this year. The Discovery Art Show is a survey exhibition of works by both independent and represented artists of interest to private and corporate collectors throughout Australia. There are $27,000 in awards up for grabs, and all awards are acquisitive, including one specifically for an unrepresented artist. Contact Tel 03 8606 4200 Website www.discoveryartshow.org.au
Closing 2 June

THE INAUGURAL WILLIAM AND WINIFRED BOWNESS PHOTOGRAPHY PRIZE
Open to all Australian residents, the William and Winifred Bowness Photography Prize has been established to promote excellence in photography. Both the prize and exhibition will provide an opportunity to view and engage with some of the most interesting contemporary work produced over the past year. Entries must have been completed no earlier than 1 June 2005. All still photo-based media including analogue and digital photography will be considered. $10,000 non-acquisitive prize. Contact Website www.mga.org.au.
Closing 2 June

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2006 PAUL LOWIN PRIZES
The Paul Lowin Prize offers one of Australia’s richest prizes for music composition. The Orchestral Prize ($25,000) is for a work for modern chamber or symphony orchestra of at least 30 players and 15 independent lines. The work may include instrumental or vocal soloists and/or choral, electronically produced or pre-recorded elements. The Song Cycle Prize ($15,000) will be awarded to a work suitable for chamber performance, using no more than 1-8 independent vocal lines, accompanied by up to 10 instrumental players. The 2006 Prizes will be judged by a panel of leading Australian composers and music practicians. Previous recipients include Nigel Butterley, Brett Dean, Julian Yu, Georges Lentz, Brenton Broadstock, Martin Wesley-Smith, Raffæle Marcellino, Liza Lim and Andrew Ford. Download an application form, guidelines and further information from the website or contact Philippa Horn at Australian Music Centre Tel 02 9247 4677 Website www.paullowin.perpetual.com.au
Closing 30 June

MEANJIN NOVELLA COMPETITION
Literary magazine, Meanjin, is running its first novella competition. Writers from across the country and overseas are invited to participate. Entries are to be between 12,000 and 20,000 words on the themes of ‘love’ or ‘desire’. The works must be unpublished fiction. The winner will be announced in January 2007, and will receive a prize of $1,500. The winning novella will also be considered for publication in Meanjin. The judges are Meanjin editor, Ian Britain, novelist Carmel Bird, and Readings director Mark Rubbo. There is an entry fee of $20 for each submission. Contact Tel 03 8344 9995 Website www.meanjin.unimelb.edu.au.
Closing 30 June

COUNTRY ENERGY ART PRIZE FOR LANDSCAPE PAINTING
The richest landscape art prize in NSW, offering a prize of $35,000. The aim of the prize is to raise the profile of country and coastal artists, who are often geographically isolated from city galleries, buyers, contacts and network. Artists from across 95% of New South Wales' land mass are eligible to enter. A change in the conditions of entry for this year, allowing the submission of entries as digital pics on a compact disc or print out, is expected to attract more artists than ever before. The 2006 exhibition and judging will be held at Goulburn Regional Art Gallery. Contact Country Energy Tel 13 23 56 Website www.countryenergy.com.au
Closing 21 July

THE IREMONGER AWARD
Allen & Unwin, Australia’s largest independent publisher, is offering this award for non-fiction works of political, social and cultural commentary that deal with contemporary Australian issues and contribute to public debate. On offer is prize money of $10,000, guaranteed publication, royalties on book sales and editorial support to develop the proposal into a finished manuscript. Entry costs $20 and entry forms available online. Contact Rebecca Kaiser, Managing Editor, Allen & Unwin Tel 02 8425 0123 Email RebeccaK@allenandunwin.com Website www.allenandunwin.com
Closing 25 August

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REDLAND ART AWARDS
The Redland Art Awards is a contemporary painting competition open to all Australian artists. The award offers three prizes including the non-acquisitive first prize of $10,000 for the overall winner. Organisers aim to create a high profile art event that attracts prominent and promising artists from around Australia and raises the profile of art within our local community. Redland Yurara Art Society Incorporated is presenting the awards, which will be hosted by Redland Art Gallery from 29 October - 27 November. Contact Ellen Paxton, Convenor, Tel 07 3820 8989 Email paxtoned@ozemail.com.au Website www.redlandartawards.org.au
Closing 15 September

DON'T FORGET : MORE GRANTS & PRIZES ONLINE
Our 'no repeats' policy means there are always other grants and prizes still open online in our e-Bulletin archive [here]. Everything is listed in order of closing date.

>> Back to top

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Resources

THE MAG – MUSEUMS & GALLERIES NSW MAGAZINE
An online publication from Museums and Galleries NSW, this first issue for 2006 focuses on cultural tourism. Audience development, marketing and promotions are all discussed in relation to this topic, with articles written by those out there in the field. Contact MGnsw Tel 02 9358 1760 freecall 1800 114 311 (regional NSW) Email admin2@mgnsw.org.au.
To download the MAG go to the MGnsw website www.mgnsw.org.au

LIBRARIES AUSTRALIA ONLINE SEARCH FACILITY
Libraries Australia, developed by the National Library of Australia, is an online facility of information content including; journals, newspapers, theses, pictures, music, manuscripts, maps and much more. Libraries Australia uses a simple search mechanism to find the item a person requires and once found can be borrowed, copied or purchased through the website. Website www.librariesaustralia.nla.gov.au

ATO NON-PROFIT NEWS SERVICE
A news service specially designed to keep non-profit organisations up-to-date on key tax issues affecting their sector, new publications released for non-profit organisations, and changes to the tax law. A valuable service provided free by subscription. Website www.ato.gov.au

INSURANCE REFERENCE FOR ARTISTS AND ARTS ORGANISATIONS
The Arts Law Centre has recently published a new edition of its 'A Practical Guide for Artists and Arts Organisations'. This is a user-friendly guide to the insurance world for artists and non-profit arts organisations. More information and how to buy now online. Website www.artslaw.com.au.

TRANS ARTISTS
Trans Artists is an independent foundation that informs artists of any discipline about international artist-in-residence programs and other opportunities for artists to stay and work elsewhere 'for art's sake'. They offer conditions that are conducive to creativity and they provide for working facilities, ready to be used by individual artists. New residencies include Italy, Finland Sri Lanka, China, Vietnam, United Kingdom and the USA. Website www.transartists.nl

COMBATING ILLICIT TRADE: DUE DILIGENCE GUIDELINES FOR MUSEUMS, LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES ON COLLECTING AND BORROWING CULTURAL MATERIAL
Guidelines to assist museums, libraries and archives when considering the acquisition of items of cultural property by purchase, gift or bequest. They contain due diligence procedures to determine whether a proposed acquisition or loan of cultural objects is ethically and legally acceptable. The guidelines were developed following discussions at the Seminar for Museum Directors held at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (UK, November 19 2003), and have been drafted and endorsed by representatives from key museums, galleries, archives and collections organisations. Available for download online. Website www.culture.gov.uk/global/publications/archive_2005/illicit_trade.htm

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About this e-Bulletin

2006 PRODUCTION SCHEDULE
The Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin is published on the 1st day of every month (or next business day), with a deadline for contributions of seven days before the end of the month.
The deadline for contributions to the May e-Bulletin is Monday 24 April.

NO REPEATS! (BUT EVERYTHING IS ARCHIVED ONLINE)
The Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin contains no repeat listings but there are always other opportunities, grants and/or prizes still available from previous editions. Access them on the archive [here].

CONTRIBUTIONS
All contributions to the e-Bulletin are welcome. Email a one paragraph, suitably worded listing to the editor, Rachael Vincent Email rachael@regionalartsnsw.com.au by Monday 24 April (but please note we can not guarantee inclusion).

PRINT IT OUT!
The e-Bulletin is designed to be printed out so you can pass it on to those who don't have internet access or take it away to read elsewhere.

SPREAD THE WORD!
If you know anyone you think might like the e-Bulletin, feel free to pass it on but do please suggest that people subscribe directly themselves - that way we know how many people benefit from the service.

SUBSCRIPTIONS
Sign up at www.regionalartsnsw.com.au/subscribe.html.

FEEDBACK
Yes please! Email the Editor rachael@regionalartsnsw.com.au.

CREDITS & THANKS
The Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin is part of the Regional Arts NSW Communications Program, made possible with funding from the Regional Arts Fund, an Australian Government initiative supporting the arts in regional and remote Australia.

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Regional Arts NSW

Regional Arts NSW is the peak body for the arts and community 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 Regional Arts Fund, an Australian Government initiative supporting the arts in regional and remote Australia and the NSW Ministry for the Arts.

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