Part one of two December editions. Supplement (Dec 06 #2) online here.

Highlights Regional Arts NSW News Other News Project Reports New Resources What's On Seminars, Workshops + Training

Opportunities Employment Grants, Fellowships + Residencies Awards + Prizes Available to Tour About this e-Bulletin

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Highlights

Clubs NSW Parkes Elvis Festival
12 – 14 January, 2007, Parkes
More than 5,000 Elvis fans already know about this, of course, but for the rest of us: Parkes is the place to be this January for a tribute celebration to mark the King of rock 'n' roll 's birthday. The Parkes Elvis Festival features more than 60 non-stop hip-swivelling events, including an Elvis Street Parade, the much-loved Elvis Gospel Church Service and Elvis look-a-like and sound-a-like contests, all surrounded by piles of Elvis collectibles and memoribillia. Internationally acclaimed Elvis impersonation artist, Dean Vegas, will also perform in three special feature concerts. An Elvis Express Train, complete with Elvis serenade and welcome on arrival, is a ride that offers to transport fans between Sydney and Parkes – and perhaps also 'back in time'. Contact Parkes Visitor Information Centre Tel 1800 624 365 Website www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au

Shooters: Daily Advertiser Photography
6 December – 21 January, Wagga Wagga
In association with The Daily Advertiser, The Museum of the Riverina presents the second annual Shooters exhibition – a snapshot of events, people and life in Wagga Wagga as seen through the lenses of the region's best photojournalists. Drought, floods, sporting triumphs and pain, friendships, music, arts, technology, young people, cultural diversity, hope, sadness, celebration and people power, the Shooters exhibition has it all. Sixty colour photographs present a retrospective of the last twelve months in the life of the city of Wagga Wagga by Advertiser shooters, Les Smith, Leanne Santoro, Kerrie Stewart and Brett Koschel. Museum of the Riverina Tel 02 6926 9655 Website www.wagga.nsw.gov.au

International Day of People with a DisAbility
3 December, across NSW
Accessible Arts celebrates the 25th anniversary of International Day of People with a DisAbility (IDPWAD) with a range of special programs across NSW that promote inclusion and participation in arts and cultural activities. Over 20 projects all designed to increase access for people with a disability to creative opportunities as practitioners, participants and audience members. Browse through the list in our What's On section to see this year's array of arts workshops, street parades and community events. IDPWD events are all marked: – An IDPWD Event
More about Accessible Arts and IDPWD Contact Josie Cavallaro Tel 02 9251 6499 Email jcavallaro@aarts.net.au.
Complete listings on the Accessible Arts website www.aarts.net.au including accessibility and other services info.

Festival of the Sun
15 – 16 December, Port Macquarie
More like a humungous Australian backyard barbecue than a music festival, Festival of the Sun's eclectic musical mix showcases some of the best bands, singer/songwriters and up-and-coming talent of the country. Set on eight acres of inspiring beach in the Sundowner Breakwall Tourist Park, festival-goers can swim, surf and sun themselves while listening and rocking to a line up that includes Augie March, The Beautiful Girls, Faker, Mia Dyson, Blue King Brown, The Fumes, Kid Confucius, The Gin Club and the Velvet Fog, to name just a few. Backpackers, cabin and camping package tickets are available online, prices start from $95. Website www.fotsun.com

Luminous: Contemporary Art from the Australian Desert
Until 4 February, 2007, Tamworth
Luminous is an exhibition of Indigenous works from the northern and central deserts and represents one of the country's finest and most representative private collections. Selected from the Helen Read collection, the works have been made available by Manly Art Gallery and Museum to create heightened awareness of the vitality of contemporary Indigenous work for a regional audience. Exhibiting Artists include Walangkura Napanangka, Sammy Apetyarr (Urapuntja Artists), Eubena Nampitjin (Warlayirti Artists) and Elizabeth Nyumi (Warlayirti Artists), among many more. Read has not only maintained a direct relationship with these artists and their communities but has played a significant role in introducing other collectors to their art. Her collection itself has in many ways become part of the art history of Western Desert art. Tamworth Regional Art Gallery Tel 02 6755 4459 Email gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au

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Regional Arts NSW News

Country Arts Support Program (CASP) now open for applications
Does your community have an idea for an arts project in 2007? Need to pay an artist or bring an artist to town? The Country Arts Support Program (CASP) may be able to help. CASP is a unique and vital grants program that delivers small grants of up to $3,000 to arts and community organisations in regional and rural New South Wales for short term, locally initiated arts projects. A total pool of $200,000 is available through the program for 2007, with funds to be directed towards artists' fees, travel and accommodation. Guidelines and Application Forms are available online on the the Regional Arts NSW website here.
Closing 7 February 2007

New mailing address for Regional Arts NSW
Regional Arts NSW has a new mailing address. With mail occasionally going astray at The Wharf we have decided to get a Locked Bag. Mail will be redirected for six months but we ask readers to please update their records and starting sending our mail to:
Regional Arts NSW, Locked Bag 5, Millers Point NSW 2000
We are, of course, still at the same location and all other contact details remain the same.

Christmas giveaway: 50 Years in the Bush
Regional Arts NSW is getting into the festive spirit and giving away 100 copies of 50 Years in the Bush. Written by Justin Macdonnell and published in 1997, the book outlines the colourful history of the Arts Council of NSW (now Regional Arts NSW) – the “oldest continually operating private arts organisation of significance in Australia". It includes thumbnail histories of around 100 arts councils across regional New South Wales and is replete with fascinating photographs. To request your free copy, simply email your details to admin@regionalartsnsw.com.au with '50 Year in the Bush' in the subject line. Don't forget to include your name, postal address and contact number. Alternatively you can phone Hannah Sanders, Administrative Coordinator Tel 02 9270 2509.

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Other News

NORPA's Electric Lenin in the national spotlight
A review by Vincent Plush in The Australian on 27 November puts the latest work by Lismore based NORPA firmly in the national spotlight: "In Electric Lenin, the 15th new work commissioned by the Northern Rivers Performing Arts group since its formation in 1993, this brave regional enterprise has again shown that the future of Australian music theatre may well be in marshalling local resources. A textbook case, Electric Lenin should be seen the nation over," Electric Lenin, the opera, by composer, Barry Conyngham, and librettist, Janis Balodis, was directed by Patrick Nolan and performed in Lismore on 22, 23 and 24 November.
Full story on The Australian's website here

$3.39m for Bourke Exhibition Centre
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile MP, and Member for Gwydir, John Anderson, have announced Sustainable Regions program funding of $3,392,400 to complete The Back O' Bourke Exhibition Centre. The Centre is intended to act as a major tourism icon for the region and tell the environmental and social history of the Darling River over a 500 year period.
Full story on the DOTARS website here

New Aboriginal art gallery opens in Northern Rivers
A new Aboriginal art gallery showcasing the works of local Indigeous artists has just opened at Corindi Beach. Established by the Yarrawara Cultural Centre, The Wadjar Art Gallery opened with an exhibition featuring works from collections by local artists Lindsay Anderson, Robin Duroux, Joe Lugnan, Doreen Hamilton and Alison Williams. The Centre has also launched a Gumbayngirr language resource kit including a book and CD compilcation for pre- and lower primary schoolers.
Contact Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre Tel 02 66 492 651.

Critical Stages regional touring program a hit
The new performing arts touring initiative by Darlinghurst Theatre, Critical Stages, has already planned tours of three major theatre works to over forty regional towns and cities across NSW from July to November 2007. After sellout seasons at Darlinghurst Theatre and BSharp, Wilde Tales, The Memory of Water, and Bangers and Mash will tour across the State next year, performing almost 100 shows with the support of Arts NSW and the Theatre Board of The Australia Council for the Arts.
More information on the Critical Stages website here

Nominations now open for the 2007 Local Government Cultural Awards
Any NSW council, large or small, which is providing innovative cultural development for its community is encouraged to nominate for the 2007 Annual Local Government Cultural Awards. The criteria for the selection of finalists include:
Having a sustained commitment to Local Government and community cultural development;
Showing commitment and dedication to Aboriginal cultural development;
Having a substantial body of work which has resulted in the improvement of cultural identity and cohesiveness within a community and
Making an innovative contribution to extending the range and scope of Local Government's role in community cultural development
A focus for 2007 is the Brendan Hartnett Award which acknowledges pivotal cultural staff in councils, with recognition for distinguished efforts in fostering and furthering community cultural development. Contact Christopher Hudson, Policy Officer, Cultural Development Tel 02  9242 4047 Email christopher.hudson@lgsa.org.au
Closing 9 March 2007

Community groups critique Local Government: Taskforce roundtable
Community, environmental groups and unions believe councils need to maintain human, cultural, and education services, but require a fairer share of resources to be able to provide them. They also think that these services should be prioritised in long term strategic planning processes – councils should avoid making populist decisions at the expense of what is best long term for their communities. These were just some of the views expressed at the first in a series of roundtables coordinated by the Strengthening Local Government Task Force to get broad and independent input into the future of NSW Local Government.
Full story [PDF] on the Local Government and Shires Associations website here

CCDNSW launches new network development strategy
Community Cultural Development NSW has launched its new network development strategy with a consultation program called 'The Communion of Cultural Peers'. "In the rapidly changing arts environment, community based practices are finding themselves out of the loop, losing popularity and support and being too under-resourced to respond forcefully to the changes affecting their constituents," says CCDNSW. By consultating with the sector's leading theorists, planners and practitioners CCDNSW aims to redefine its role in relation to the sector and find a framework that can be built into a solid business plan for the next decade. The first Communion of Cultural Peers was hosted by Newcastle City Council on 24 November, and in early 2007 will be taken to the Illawarra and Western Sydney regions.
CCDNSW invites organisations on the Central Coast interested in attending or helping to host Peer Communions to email projects@ccdnsw.org

NAVA seeks feedback on new Indigenous art guidelines
The National Association for Visual Arts has called for Indigenous artists, communities and those in related industries and government departments to respond to its working documents on a new national code of ethics for the Indigenous art industry. The draft national Indigenous Art Commerical Code of Conduct follows a series of high profile scandals which led the Federal Government to call for a formal inquiry into the practices of Australia's Indigenous arts trade.
The deadline for responses is 20 December.
For more information or to access the discussion paper,see the NAVA website here
Full story on the Arts Hub website here

2006 Community Heritage Grants for NSW
Funding of more than $391,000 has been awarded to eighty community groups and organisations around the country under the 2006 Community Heritage Grants program recently announced by The Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp. Regional NSW winners include:
Arts Northern Rivers - $9,000 for collection management training for staff of twenty-one museums in the region and significance assesment of their collections.
Australian Music Country Foundation - $7,200 for a significance assessment of the Foundation's collection and a significance training project. The Foundation was formed in 1993 to establish a permanent National Country Music Archive and Resource Centre in Tamworth.
Cathedral Parish of St Saviour, Goulburn - $4,600 for a preservation survey of the Cathedral's textile collection and a preservation training workshop.
Council City of Lithgow - $5,000 for archival storage materials for the Eskbank House and Museum collection.
Dharriwaa Elders Group - $7000 for a collection management training project for group members (Aboriginal people aged over 60 who live in Walgett).
Flying Fruit Fly Circus - $4000 for a preservation survey of its collection which includes photographs, slides, videos and posters.
Young and District Historical Society & Lambing Flat Museum - $3850 for conservation of the Roll-up Flag.
Full story on the National Library of Australia website here

Regional arts groups benefit from 2006 MGnsw VIM grants
A number of regional arts organisations have received funding recently from the Museums & Galleries NSW 2006 Volunteer Initiated Museum Development Grants and Small Grants Programs. Dungog Museum, the Hay Museums and Sketchley Pioneer Cottage & Museum received strategic planning and development funding and Queanbeyan and Kangaroo Valley Pioneer Museum Park received funding for interactive and interpretive exhibition displays.
Contact Kristin Anderson Tel 02 9339 9904 Email kristina@mgnsw.org.au Website www.mgnsw.org.au

Regional artists feature at Sydney art fair
Indigenous artists from the Far West and Orana regions featured at the recent Sydney Aboriginal and Oceanic Art Fair with the support of the Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD). Participating artists Gail Naden (Gilgandra), Joanne Parker (Lightning Ridge), Paul Taylor (Geurie) and Warren Mayson (Goodooga) have also been invited to a future exhibition in Paris in 2007, with Gail Naden also receiving offers to exhibit in China, Saudi Arabia and Melbourne. The DSRD's Aboriginal Business Link Program assists Indigenous businesspeople to attend trade shows to market products to new clients.
Websites www.saoaf.com.au or www.aboriginalbiz.nsw.gov.au

Regional writer launches first novel in Sydney
Edward Gordon, born and raised in Trangie NSW, has just launched his debut novel Turned Skyward, at Gleebooks in Sydney. The novel captures teenager Isabel Vivaldi's aspirations and dreams, her complex relationship with her father and the challenges of living in a small drought affected town. "I have experienced the environment in which Turned Skyward is set," said Gordon. "I know the people who work the long hours and endure the limitations of a remote town." Contact Tel 02 9660 2333 Websites www.gleebooks.com.au/events or www.turnedskyward.com.au

2006 ABC Radio Short Story Project winners on air
Short stories by ten talented writers from regional Australia, including three from regional NSW, are now being broadcast on ABC Radio National and ABC Local Radio stations around Australia. The winners of the Radio Regional Production Fund Short Story competition were selected from 1,400 entries, with judges commenting on the 'vibrancy' and 'diversity' of the winning storytelling techniques. Stories included the culinary and cultural awakening of a soldier stationed in the Australian outback; the slightly bemused Vietnamese travelogue of a pair of empty nesters; and a young girl's quest to rescue every animal in danger on her family's farm.
Background and stories on the ABC's website here

Radio National axes The Deep End
Radio National's weekday arts and culture program The Deep End has been axed, leaving no dedicated cultural show on the network. The Deep End featured arts news and events coverage in Australia and overseas across multiple disciplines.
Full story on the Arts Hub website here

Can the arts keep kids at school?
Researcher seeks your input
Can the arts help disenfranchised young people get an education? With funding from Monash University, the Postdoctoral Research Fellow Dr Anna Hickey-Moody is undertaking a two-year research project to find out. "The Federal Education Department has published a few documents recently suggesting that (creative arts subjects and extra-curricular programs) are a really good means of engagement for marginalised and disenfranchised students,” Dr Hickey-Moody says. “But there’s not a lot of research that backs that up.” Anna requests that any readers who work in arts programs in schools with disadvantaged people make get in touch. She can be contacted at anna.hickeymoody@education.monash.edu.au
Full story on the Arts Hub website here

Report on Copyright Amendment Bill 2006 released
The report of the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee on the Copyright Amendment Bill 2006 has been released. The Copyright Amendment Bill was introduced into Parliament on 19 October. It includes amendments relating to technological protection measures; enforcement, unauthorised reception of encoded broadcasts, time-shifting and format-shifting, non-commercial activities of libraries, educational institutions, cultural institutions, people with a disability and parody and satire.
The Bill and explanatory notes are available from the Parliament of Australia website here
More information about the Australian Copyright Council online here

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Project Reports

Eyes to the Floor: New play for Hay girls
October, Hay
Young performers had the experience of a lifetime when high profile playwright Alana Valentine visited Hay to develop a new work commissioned by Outback Theatre. Eyes to the Floor is a powerful play based on the experiences of former inmates of the Hay Institution for Girls. The institution operated as a total security extension to the Parramatta Girls' Home between 1960 and 1974 and was a place of extreme, dehumanising discipline. Alana developed the script with Artistic Director Amy Hardingham and a cast of local young people, together with Griffith-based actor, Christopher Saunders. Eyes to the Floor will premiere at the Hay Gaol in March 2007 to coincide with a reunion of former inmates. The project is supported by the Australia Council for the Arts, Arts NSW, and the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program (CASP).
Contact Amy Hardingham Tel 02 6993 1715 Email director@southwestarts.com.au
For more information about former Hay girls or to register for the reunion contact Wilma Robb Tel 02 6232 7768 Wesbite www.parragirls.org.au

Pablo in the Field
October – January 2007, Ballina
As you come in to land in Ballina over Thursday Plantation’s tea tree fields, this is what you see. It's a very large-scale artwork called 'Pablo in the Field', the creation of Thursday Plantation’s East Coast Sculpture Show curator, Priya Woolston, and local artist Suvira McDonald. “For many years, I have wanted to create something really big using the dormant tea tree fields as a canvas,” explains Priya. “ We have used the annual field slashing to create a homage to Picasso, wink a greeting and announce that the 11th East Coast Sculpture Show is well and truly open!” Created with the help of Ballina community volunteer Terri Laurie, and with Stuart Hillier of Corndale on the slasher, the ephemeral work is approximately 1 kilometre long and half a kilometre wide and will be around until about the end of January 2007. Balloon and small plane flight bookings can also be made through the Thursday Plantation East Coast Sculpture Show, which is on in Ballina until 31 January Tel 02 6620 5147 Website www.sculptureshow.net

ConnectED: schools photography workshops
October – November, Hunter Valley
Over 400 young Hunter Valley students have been working in collaboration with emerging photographer Carla Feltham to create large scale photographic artworks that depict their home and community as part of the Arts NSW ConnectED program. Each artwork features hundreds of photographs that will become banners to be presented to the participating schools. Schools received a workshop with Carla, a free disposable camera for each student and a free visit to Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG)where they viewed the current Michel Brouet photography exhibition and participated in multisensory art-making activities. ConnectEd is supported by Arts NSW, Kurri Kurri Kodak Express, MRAG members and patrons. Contact Clare Irvine, Education Coordinator, Maitland Regional Art Gallery Tel 02 4934 9856 Email ClareI@maitland.nsw.gov.au Website www.mrag.org.au

Music lessons by videoconference
October – December, Gilgandra & Baradine
Together with Orana Arts, Baradine Central School and Gilgandra TAFE, Gilgandra music teacher Katherine Richardson recently held a trial music lesson for Baradine students using videoconferencing facilities. The idea came about because Baradine town does not have a music teacher. Following the success of the lesson, Katherine will visit Baradine on 8 December for a band workshop of 20 students. If the trial is successful, Katherine hopes to produce a regular video-conferencing lesson for the band in 2007. "The ability to connect students and teachers through videoconferencing is an excellent resource, " said Kylie Moppett, RADO at Orana Arts. "Students now have access to a high standard of teaching and continuance for their chosen musical instrument."
Contact Merryn Spencer, Project/Promotions Officer, Orana Arts Tel 02 6817 8704 Mob 0427 777 586 Email rappo@oranaarts.com

Writing anthology launched: fourWseventeen
The Booranga Writers’ Centre has just released its annual anthology of new Australian writing, fourWseventeen. Now in its seventeenth year, fourW is one of Australia's longest running anthologies and the 2006 edition is brimming with previously unpublished work and graphics from metropolitan and regional Australia, and from overseas. Established writers such as Susan Hampton, i.j. oog, Michael Crane, Jane Downing, David Gilbey and Pat Skinner are in the collection, as well as new work from emerging writers of the Riverina region. fourW is produced for Wagga Wagga Writers Writers under the imprint of fourW Press.
Contact Booranga Writers' Centre Tel 02 69 332 688 Email booranga@csu.edu.au

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New Resources

SAUCE: New chapter on media relations
SAUCE – fuel4arts' 'Hot tips for effective arts promotion' – has been redesigned and has a new chapter on media relations. SAUCE covers all areas of arts promotion and is designed for those who are new to arts marketing or looking for fresh inspiration. It's one of the consistently most popular downloads from fuel4arts.com. The new chapter draws on information from acclaimed reSAUCEful Media Relations course as well as meetings by SAUCE writers with more than 300 artsworkers and journalists from around the country. Website www.fuel4arts.com/sauce

Full House: Turning Data into Audiences
UK based author, Roger Tomlinson and Tim Roberts have been working on this new publication for the Australia Council for the Arts and five State and Territory ministries for the past 18 months. Fullhouse: Turning Data into Audiences is an update on Tomlinson's 1993 book, Boxing Clever, and it brings ticketing and marketing strategies into the world of technology. Suggesting that it is possible to know who the customer is and to deal with them according to their specific needs and interests, thanks to the internet, Full House addresses issues of customer relationship management, privacy, online marketing and ticketing, and developing profile through strategic use of the web. Cost $24.95 Order online. Website www.artsoz.com.au

Ourcommunity suite of publications
Ourcommunity.com offers a selection of guides designed to help organisations and schools improve their grant winning skills, fundraising activities and Board and governance efficacy. Practical and easy to read, the range includes resources that will transform Boards into effective and productive teams; offers legal advice on the risks and responsibilities of being a not-for-profit Board director; and contains a step-by-step guide to risk management. It also offers other suggestions to make grant applications, recruiting and ethical decision-making easier. Guides can be ordered online or by phone for $36 each. Contact Alan Matic Tel 03 9320 6805 Email alanm@ourcommunity.com.au Website www.ourcommunity.com.au

Screenlinks Production Directory
A complimentary service that lists film, television and digital media professionals, and resources based in the Mid North Coast and Armidale regions of NSW. The searchable database provides fast and easy access to highly skilled crew, facilities and services in the region. Website www.filmmnca.org.

AbaF: The Gold Book 2006
The Gold Book 2006: Successful private sector relationships with the arts is the latest publication from the Australia Business Arts Foundation. Showcasing all 45 business arts partnerships who were finalists in the 2006 AbaF Awards, it includes a great diversity of stories: everything from major flagship companies to grassroots communities festivals. The Gold Book is a great resource for everyone with an interest in sponsrhip, philanthropy, marketing and related fields. Of particular interest to Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin subscribers: The Qantaslink Regional Award for partnerships with outcomes in rural and regional Australia.
The Gold Book is available free from AbaF Tel 03 9616 0300 Email information@abaf.org.au Website www.agaf.org.au

New CCD evaluation kit from CCDNSW
Showcasing Diversity: Evaluating Community Cultural Development Projects is a new resource kit outlining what it takes to document, evaluate, report and develop concepts of 'good practice' in community and cultural development. The kit is based on the Showcasing Diversity training program run by Vandana Ram, CCDNSW's Cultural Diversity Program Manager in 2005. The results have been collected in a kit including fact sheets and case studies. Kits can be used as a springboard to conduct further CCD projects and can be ordered or downloaded online. Website www.ccdnsw.org

How are we going?
Directions for the arts in The Creative Age
Learn to speak like an international expert! There are still some copies of this excellent – and free! – DVD, featuring highlights of a key national arts and creativity forum held at the Byron Bay Writers Festival in 2005, available from Regional Arts NSW. Headlined by UK pioneer in studies of the knowledge economy and creative industries development, Kate Oakley, and Australian economics of arts and culture guru, David Throsby, "How are we going? Directions for the arts in The Creative Age" captures a day of fascinating presentations, lively discussion and debate including 22 big name Australian and international thinkers and a large specialist audience.
Read more and order your free copy here.

Createillawarra.com
A new online hub for artists and arts organisations in the Illawarra. Includes resources, links to upcoming events and competitions and offers the unique opportunity for an arts organisation to establish its own website for free. The site is the result of an innovative work-for-the-dole project that combines technology and the arts. Participants learn computer and website production skills while producing sites for not-for-profit community groups and arts organisations. With over 65 links to arts related pages, createillawarra is a place for local artists, organisations and businesses to network and promote themselves. Website www.createillawarra.com

Australian Writers Marketplace online
A 'must' for any writer who wants to access the latest publishing tools and have their name listed among industry peers. Writers can browse for recent feature articles or a publishing template, access professional advice, network with industry contacts, chat in blogs and forums and showcase their works online. Providing full access to a comprehensive directory for Australian publishing which has previously only been available in print, the Marketplace features over 2,200 searchable publication opportunities, contacts, courses, competitions and services for writers at all levels. Industry organisations can post listings for free. Writers must become members to view listings and access resources with membership. One year membership costs $49.95. Website www.awmonline.com.au

Empowering Communities: MGnsw seminar papers online
Seminar proceedings from Empowering Communities: A focus on South Africa’s District Six Museum are now available online. This seminar focused on ways in which museums, galleries and libraries can
engage with and empower communities. It proposed new models for museums, which emphasise stories and ideas, rather than a collection of objects, as a way of connecting with visitors. Featuring keynote speaker Director of District Six Museum, Valmont Layne, the seminar was presented by MGnsw and the Museum of Sydney.
Download readings from the MGnsw website here

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What's On

Freeform/Up the Road a Bit
Until 9 December, Moruya – An IDPWD Event
The first shared arts event for people with disabilities living in the Bega Valley Shire with those in the Eurobodalla Shire. This milestone event celebrates the accessible art, free expression and International Day for People with a Disability. The event will coincide with an exhibition of artworks by artists with a disability from both Shires at The Mechanics Institute. The program involves 18 artists and performers with a disability. At the Mechanics Institute 10am-4pm. Also on 6 December at 1pm: a performance combining drama and music, art and storytelling, In your Dreams. Website [PDF brochure]  www.esc.nsw.gov.au

Remembering Rain: Angus Nivison
Until 10 January 2007, Moree
A selection of work by grazier and artist, Angus Nivision. Nivison, who lives and paints on his property near Walcha, is well-known for his landscape work. His paintings not only represent the Australian landscape, but use it as a vehicle to express his thoughts and feelings. This new exhibition explores the effects that rain, lack of rain and drought have on the landscape. At Moree Plains Gallery Contact Tel 02 6757 3323 Website www.moreeplainsgallery.org.au

Fragments & the Still Life:
Wendy Fairclough & Abigail Howells
Until 8 January, 2007, Tanja
An exhibition of exquisite glass compositions and finely woven tapestries by two accomplished Australian female artists. Wendy Fairclough’s glass works explore the human sense of home, journey, land and belonging. Abigail Howells explores jacquard weaving. Using silk, cotton and linen, Abigail’s detailed tapestries connect the history of textiles and adornment with the function of the craft. 10.30am-5.30pm Friday to Monday. Narek Galleries. Tel 02 6494 0112 Email info@narekgalleries.com Website www.narekgalleries.com

Aladdin: a pantomime
Until 9 December, Goulburn
A traditional fable brought to life with the colourful song and movement of pantomime by The Lieder Theatre Company – the oldest, continually running theatre company in Australia. Directed by Stan Henderson, the production promises to be a delightful experience for the whole family. Tickets $18 / $13 / $10. Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays, Saturday 2pm matinees.
Contact The Lieder Theatre Tel 02 4821 5066 Website http://site.lieder.goulburn.net.au

Produce food! Agriculture on Australian stamps
1 December – 4 February, Broken Hill
Australia Post presents Produce Food! Traditional and contemporary images of agriculture on Australian Stamps, including more than 70 works that show traditional and contemporary images of Australian agriculture on Australian stamps, featuring the photographs and original artworks used in their design. Supported by Visions of Australia. Curator, Gary Corbett, will provide a free floor talk at 6pm on 1 December, before the official opening at 7pm. Contact Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery Manager, Rebekah Butler Tel 08 8088 6897 Email artgallery@brokenhill.nsw.gov.au

Fashion Parade of CapAbility
1 December, Albury – An IDPWD Event
An evening event to celebrate people with disabilities of all ages with their families – enhancing the learning and skills of local people with disabilities. The Auditorium, Commercial Club, 7pm. Tickets $15 / $10 / $8. Contact Cooinda Family Support Group Tel 02 6056 4844 Email cooindawodonga@optusnet.com.au

Circle of Rhythm
1 December, Bangalow
From the fast, high energy drumming styles of Japan and Polynesia to the ethereal, spiritually uplifting sounds of India, Circle of Rhythm boasts a spectrum of styles and unique instrumentation made to delight the senses. Renowned performers Greg Sheehan, Bobby Singh and Ben Walsh will meld a collection of drum styles. Tickets $18/$16. A & I Hall, Bangalow, 8pm. Contact Ku Promotions Tel 66 847 921 Email kupromo@bigpond.net.au

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Drumming performance
1 December, Blackheath – An IDPWD Event
Lil's Puppet Show and drumming performances will complement an exhibition of artwork by people with a disability. 10am-2pm Gold coin donation. Contact Chris Muzatti Tel 02 4787 5684 Email chris.muzatti@banc.org.au

Celebrate Ability Day
1 December, Lavington – An IDPWD Event
Showcasing the talents of people with a disability, including an arts and crafts display as well as exhibitions, performances, demonstrations and sports. Albury Wodonga Disability Reference Group, 11am-2pm. Contact Albury Wodonga Disability Reference Group Tel 02 6056 2420
Email advocate@disability-advocacy.com.au

Priscilla celebrates Ability
1 December, Wagga Wagga – An IDPWD Event
A Priscilla Queen of the Desert themed disco will celebrate people with a disability, their families and friends. Masonic Hall, Tarcutta Street, Wagga Wagga. 6pm-10pm. Entry by gold coin donation. Contact Disability Advocacy Network Tel 02 6921 9225 Email dan_inc@bigpond.com

Live and Unplugged
2, 9 & 16 December, Dubbo
A new music competition hosted by the Midnite Café on Saturday nights which aims to give young musicians exposure to new audiences. Cash prizes are available for eligible entrants, who must be under 25 years of age, be an amateur and strictly not use drum kits or amps – acoustic only. 10pm-1am, Midnite Cafe. Tel 0421 313 898

Celebrating 50 Years of Historical Societies & Museums in the Hastings
2 – 10 December, Hastings district
Hastings celebrates fifty years of Historical Societies and Museums by acknowledging the efforts of the many hundreds of volunteers who have given endless hours of their time to investigate, record and collect the past. The week-long program includes Our History our Heritage, a special exhibition focused on major industries within the region, Then and Now, a history of the Hastings through photographs, a village fair, open days at the Douglas Vale Historic Vineyard and cruises on the Heritage Vessel. For a complete program Tel 02 6581 8022 Website www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

Go For It
2 December, Nymagee – An IDPWD Event
This community event will include professional and amateur performances, a workshop, a friendly feast and dance. 6.30pm-12am, Nymagee Community Hall. Coordinated by Mallee Hen Cooperation with the Nymagee CWA and Progress Committee. Contact Jay Dunne Tel 02 6837 3667 Email nymageefestival@bigpond.com

Forest Animalia
2 – 3 December, Grafton – An IDPWD Event
A stage performance of a play written and performed by people with a disability. Clarence Valley Conservatorium, Saturday 7pm, Sunday 2pm. Entry by gold coin donation (free for people with a disability). Contact Clarence Valley Conservatorium Tel 02 6643 3555

Playing with Fire
2, 3 & 9, 10 December, Robertson
A collection of exotic and esoteric works by local sculptor, Philip Jones, looking into the creative aspect of fire. Includes works cast in bronze at over 1200 degrees using the ancient lost wax process. Others are rescued from the flames in a series of striking firewood carvings. A 'mind-bending' exhibition of unique wood and metal sculptures including a set of fantasy guitars and a life sized bunyip. Fettlers Shed Gallery, 10am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday. Contact Philip Jones Tel 02 4885 2985 Email phill.jones@bigpond.com

Touch, listen & talk day at the Age of Fishes Museum
3 December, Canowindra – An IDPWD Event
Visitors can wander a sculpture garden or touch the fossils and the models of the 360 million-year-old fish. Free guided tours by geologists and storytelling sessions are also part of the day's special program. Age of Fishes Museum, 10am-4pm. Wheelchair Access, services for people who are blind, services for carers, description of visual elements, audio loop. Contact Fiona Ferguson Tel 02 6344 1008 Email aof@colourcity.com

Jack Randell
3 December, Dubbo
New paintings and prints by regional artist Jack Randell on display at the Lazy River Estate. Guests are invited to meet the artist at the official opening, 3 December, 4pm. Estate opening hours are 10am-5pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Entry is free. Tel 02 6882 2111.

CelebrateAbility with Arts OutWest
3 December, Bathurst – An IDPWD Event
A free day of art and entertainment from Arts Outwest, the Disability, Information and Advocacy Service (DIAS), Mitchell Conservatorium and the Bathurst and District Museum. BBQ and refreshments from 10am. Official opening and welcome at 11.30am.
CreateAbility – a recently returned exhibition from Australia’s only regional disability arts festival, Awakenings in Victoria, features striking visual artworks by central west artists living with a disability. Mitchell Conservatorium.
Disability: Then and Now features interactive displays of contemporary and historical artefacts. Bathurst and District Museum, free entry on IDPWD.
Paint market umbrellas under the guidance of local Indigenous artist Nyree Reynolds. Front lawns of the Bathurst Courthouse.
Pianist Garry Cooley performs in Studio A at 12noon and 2pm, while guitarist Adrian Hadson performs on the Courthouse lawn 3pm.
Contact Natalie Kent Tel 02 6338 4657 Email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au

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Art exhibition & street walk
3 December, Inverell – An IDPWD Event
Shop-front exhibition, Byron and Otho streets, Inverell, 11am. Contact Geoffrey Murray Tel 02 6721 5011 Email Inverell@kirinari.com.au

Card art workshop & exhibition
3 – 9 December, Cowra – An IDPWD Event
Display of cards produced from prints and framed artworks. Cowra Regional Art Gallery, Gallery and Library. 10am-5pm Monday-Saturday, 2pm-4pm Sunday Tel 02 6340 2190 Email cowraartgallery@cowra.nsw.gov.au

Art with heart
4 December, Lismore – An IDPWD Event
An exhibition of painting and clay work by local people with a disability and performances in singing, drama, wheelchair dancing, poetry, comedy and conducting a recorder group. Free lunch included. Bookings required. Contact Shauna McIntyre Tel 02 6025 0500 Email shauna.mcintyre@lismore.nsw.gov.au

Art Ability
5 – 9 December, Wagga Wagga – An IDPWD Event
A showcase of works from Skills Options Kurrajong Waratah, The Leisure Company, CASS and students from a number of high schools. Art works will be for sale. Opening 6 December, 5.30pm. At Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, 10am-5pm. Wheelchair access, accessible toilets. Contact Skills Options Kurrajong Waratah Tel 02 6925 3422

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This month at Grafton Regional Gallery
6 December – 28 January 2007
It’s a Dogs Life: Animals in the public service – a National Archives of Australia touring exhibition that celebrates the vital contribution made to Australia by beasts of burden, large and small.
Christine Pratt: Things Great and Small – focussing on panoramic landscapes of the tablelands and small found objects form the seashore, Pratt's work suggests the deeper significance of the beauty and greatness of creation and the creator.
Contemporary Ceramics of the Tiwi Islands – three internationally recognised Tiwi Island ceramic artists explore the possibilities of wood fired porcelain.
YouthInk: Maclean High School Students – photographs and artworks by Maclean High School students, examining and interpreting the artist, artworld and self.
Colours of black: Felix Tuszynski – a small exhibition of delicate drawings that were donated to the Grafton Regional Gallery in March this year.
Grafton Art Club: ‘Summer’ – a group exhibition on the theme of ‘Summer’. A diverse range of works and mediums created from this active group of local artists.
Contact Cher Breeze, Curator of Public Programs Grafton Regional Gallery Tel 02 6642 3177

Get ART out there forum
7 December, Goulburn
The monthly forums for artists, performers, musicians, writers, arts workers hosts some Christmas drinks. Participants can gather for an end of year celebration and pre-concert BYO drink at 6.30pm, to be followed by the wonderful and varied talents of the tutors in concert at 7.30pm. Goulburn Regional Conservatorium Tel 02 4821 8833

Ganga Giri & Collective
8 December, Durrumbul
A night of organic electronic global and tribal deep earth dance experience with Ganga Giri who will be launching their latest CD Raising It Up, joined by high profile local musicians and special international guest DJs Adham Shaikh from Canada, and Italian born Gaudi. Durrumbul Hall, 8pm. Tickets $20. Contact Suzie Mylecharane Tel 02 66 847 921 Website www.gangagiri.com

Archibald Prize
9 December – 14 January, Dubbo
The Archibald Prize is touring regional NSW. As one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious art awards, it fosters portraiture, supports artists and keeps the memory of great Australians. Since its inception in 1921 the prize has been awarded to some of Australia's most important artists. The Archibald is an annual AGNSW exhibition and is toured by Museums and Galleries NSW. Contact Western Plains Cultural Centre Tel 02 6801 4444.

Swar Sadhana: Devotion to Raga
10 December, Ewingsdale
Indian classical bansuri and tabla with one of the leading musicians in Japan's music scene,Taro Terahara and Shen Flindell, whose tabla playing is noted for his clear sound, comfortable rhythmic sense, and wide repertoire. They will be joined by guest artist, Tibetan singer, Tenzin Choegyal. The artists' devotion to guru, music and instrument creates a journey from calm to spirit to elation. Ewingsdale Hall, 7pm. Tickets $15/$20. Contact Soul Tel 0406 788 944 Email souljourney108@yahoo.com.au Website www.ethnosuperlounge.blogspot.com

Mr Sleep & the Flying Green Toad
17 December, Durrumbul
A live performance to enchant children and adults alike, offering a musical adventure into the heart of dreamland. Woven with wonderful world music, Mr Sleep and the Flying Green Toad is an eclectic collection of instruments and songstories, where the wisdom and insight of each song holds a special gift. Mr Sleep has been locally produced by three fathers from the Shire: Avishai Barnatan & Amir Paiss and inspirational speaker and author Yossi Ghinsberg. Tickets $20 / $10 / $5, Durrumbul Hall, 3pm. Contact Suzie Mylecharane Tel 02 66 847 921

35th Tamworth Country Music Festival
19 – 28 January, Tamworth
Every January up to 50,000 visitors come to celebrate one of the most famous country music festivals in the world: the Telstra Country Music Festival in Tamworth, the home of country music in Australia. With concerts, talent quests, buskers and events galore, his year's line-up features John Williamson, Melinda Schneider, the Barramundi Brothers, Troy Cassar Daley, Casey Chambers ... just to name a few, as well as the biggest line dancing competitions in the country; the 2007 Golden Guitar Awards; the Toyota Star Maker Awards; the Telstra Queen of Country Music Quest and, of course, the 35th Country Music Awards of Australia. Contact Tourism Tamworth Tel 02 6767 5300 Websites www.tamworth.nsw.gov.au or www.countryragepage.com/tamworth07.htm

Belinda Mason-Lovering: Intimate Encounters
19 January – 13 February, Lismore
An exhibition of photographs that challenge the hidden myth in our society that only the most glamorous, attractive and successful among us lead active, healthy and imaginative sexual lives. Belinda collaborates with people with physical, intellectual, learning, psychiatric and neurological disabilities. Lismore Regional Gallery Tel 02 6622 2209 Website www.lismoregallery.org

The Magic Story Coat
18 – 25 January, Wagga Wagga
Includes a muddled Storyteller, an opinionated Puss in Boots and a magic coat with a mind of its own. Gearstick Theatre presents a fairytale journey for the whole family. Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre. Tickets $6.50 Tel 02 6926 9688 Website www.civictheatre.com.au

The One Van International Festival of Puppetry
19 – 21 January, Blackheath
Sydney Puppet Theatre and Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre showcase some of the most contemporary puppetry techniques around. Including performances, workshops and exhibitions in shadow puppetry, large scale outdoor puppets and puppets in animation. The festival features Richard Hart's Dream Puppets, Aphids' A Quarreling Pair, Polyglot Puppets, the master marionettist Murray Raine, and world premier productions from Krinkl Theatre. This year’s festival theme: "Cool Ideas for a Hot Planet!". The Bates Hall & the Main Hall, Blackheath. Tel 02 4787 7770 Email puppets@banc.ngo.org.au Website http://bluemts.com.au/puppet/

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Grants, Fellowships + Residencies

Hill End Artists-in-Residence Program
Artists from a broad range of disciplines have the enriching opportunity to live and work in the historic gold mining village of Hill End, staying in the signifcant sites of Murrays or Haefligers Cottages. The residency program provides a development space for visual artists, writers, curators, filmmakers or performers, who in turn have an opportunity to contribute to the long term cultural development and sustainability of the area. Submissions should include a CV, samples of recent work and a project plan for the residency. Contact Sarah Gurich Tel 02 6331 6066 Email brag@bathurst.nsw.gov.au Website www.hillendart.com
Closing 1 December*

*By special arrangement with Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, deadline extended to 8 December for Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin subscribers

AbaF Margaret Lawrence Bequest Scholarship
A new Australian Business Arts Foundation program to help arts managers access fully paid executive training, the AbaF Margaret Lawrence Bequest Scholarship will offer ten arts managers the chance to participate in complete executive development programs at Melbourne Business School or the Australian Graduate School of Management. The scholarship covers course fees and airfares for interstate applicants, and aims to provide the best management education in the country.Contact AbaF Tel 03 9616 0300 Website www.abaf.org.au
Closing 7 December

Metro Screen: Jump Start
Offering $40,000 annually for filmmakers to have subsidised access to reliable, sought-after equipment, current technical facilities and production support. Jump Start subsidises productions that: inspire and encourage original screen content; allow professional development for emerging screen practitioners; provide an opportunity for those generally excluded from mainstream media production; and encourage communities to use video and digital media as a cultural development tool. Contact David Opitz Tel 02 9361 5318 Email d.opitz@metroscreen.org.au Website www.metroscreen.org.au
Closing 4 December

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Studies Research Grants
AIATSIS is a national funding body for research in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies. The Research Grants Program supports research into a wide range of areas including history, politics, law, public policy, health, education, Indigenous knowledge systems, linguistics, social anthropology, archaeology and the arts. Applications are now open for 2007 research projects. Applicants are not required to have formal qualifications, but must demonstrate that they have the ability to carry out the research described. The project should aim to make a significant contribution to knowledge in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies. Website www.aiatsis.gov.au
Closing 15 December

OzCo Theatre Board: Playing the World and Flying Start programs
Playing the World assists Australian theatre artists to develop international markets and reach new audiences overseas, by supporting international tours of highly innovative Australian theatre productions. Proposals may be made for: international touring of existing productions, international commissions of new Australian productions by international presenters, international collaborations by artists proposing to create new works with international artists or companies and more. Contact Theatre Program Tel 02 9215 9117 Website www.ozco.gov.au
Flying Start grants assist new artistic directors and general managers with any relevant professional development activities, including a mentorship program, travel costs for meeting with peers and attending industry events, or skills training. The maximum amount available is $3,000 towards any professional development activities undertaken within the first 12 months of appointment. Contact Catherine Jones, Youth Arts Officer Tel 02 9215 9323 Email c.jones@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au/grants
Closing 31 December

24HR ART (NT): call for residency applications
The Northern Territory Centre for Contemporary Art invites independent artists, writers, performers and curators to submit proposals for the new residency program. The 24HR Art Residency Program is one of the few residency opportunities available to artists in northern Australia and is open to Australian and international artists for up to six weeks. Residency participants receive free accommodation and studio space at Wood St Gallery, situated in parkland surrounds within the central business district of Darwin city. Contact Steve Eland, Director 24HR Art Tel 08 8981 5368 Email steve@24hrart.org.au Website www.24hrart.org.au
Closing 31 December

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Kultour 2008 touring Program
Kultour is a national, not for profit company dedicated to touring multicultural performance and visual art. With the support of the Australia Council, these annual programs allow local professional artists to reach new audiences in new areas and, in turn, allow Australian audiences to gain insight into the exciting multicultural work that is currently on offer in the arts in Australia. Multicultural artists and art workers are invited to apply for inclusion in the 2008 touring program. Projects can be either visual art/multi media based or performance based. Contact NORPA 02 6622 0300 Email info@norpa.org.au Website www.norpa.org.au or www.kultour.com.au
Closing 1 February 2007

DoCITA: Contemporary Music Touring Program
Grants from the Australian Government to support for Australian contemporary music touring. The program encourages musicians who write and perform their own music to tour throughout the country, particularly to regional and remote areas. All professional members of the Australian music industry are eligible to apply, including performers, managers, agents, music networks and music organisations. Application forms, explanatory notes and guidelines all available on the website. Tel 02 6271 1715 Email music.touring@dcita.gov.au Website www.dcita.gov.au/arts/arts/touring_program
Closing 6 February 2007

EPIC07: Young & Emerging Artists
EPIC07 provides professional development opportunities in media art or dance for emerging producers, project managers, artists and artsworkers working with and in communities, by placing an emerging producer/artist in a host organisation to gain practical experience of managing a project. $45,000 is available towards salary and on-costs for organisations successful in their application to provide an internship. In 2007, up to five internships will be supported – two will be specifically for dance and movement producers/artists and three will be for emerging producers/artists engaging young people by using new technologies and media art. Contact Caro Flood, Dance Board Tel 02 9215 9179 Email c.flood@ozco.gov.au or Sandi Woo, Community Partnerships Tel 02 9215 9177 Email s.woo@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au
Closing 9 February 2007

Change the world In five minutes: film|new media projects
Filmmakers and new media practitioners with an idea of how to change the world through everyday actions, can apply for investment funding of up to $20,000 through a new cross-media project. Submissions are called for from creative individuals and teams from NSW. The joint initiative has been made by Film Australia, SBS Digital Media, the Australian Film TV and Radio School and the NSW Film and Television Office (FTO). Website www.filmaust.com.au or more information www.if.com.au/events
Closing 12 January 2007

DoCITA: Festivals Australia
Grants from the Australian Government to add a new or special sort of cultural activity that has never been done before and could not otherwise be afforded, for projects starting after 1 July. Funds are available to present exciting projects which will add to the cultural program of a regular, ongoing festival or which will enhance the local community's cultural image and sense of identity. Contact Festivals Australia, DCITA Tel 1800 819 461 Website www.dcita.gov.au
Closing 15 Februrary, 2007

DoCITA: Festivals Australia Regional Residencies Program
Provides funds for an artist to undertake a residency for a period of up to five weeks to work with communities to express their stories through visual arts/crafts, literature, dance, music, drama or other mediums. Organisations managing regular festivals or significant one-off community celebrations are eligible to apply, for projects starting after 1 July. Contact Festivals Australia Regional Residencies, DCITA Tel 1800 819 461 Website www.dcita.gov.au
Closing 15 February 2007

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Available to Tour

MGnsw: Touring Exhibitions Register
Museums and Galleries NSW has made its second free Exhibitions Register available online. The MGnsw touring program facilitates and manages state and national tours of contemporary art, craft, and design exhibitions, with an emphasis on regional access. Eighteen works are currently available to tour from public galleries and organisations across Australia, including the exhibitions 25 x 25 and Marion Hosking: Jewellery. The exhibitions cover topics that range from bushfires to beanies. Contact Kristin Anderson Tel 02 9339 9904 Email kristina@mgnsw.org.au Website www.mgnsw.org.au

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About this e-Bulletin

Deadline for next e-Bulletin
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 February 2007 e-Bulletin is 22 January 2006.

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, by 22 January 2006 (but please note we can not guarantee inclusion for inappropriate material).

Print it out!
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Spread the word!
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Feedback
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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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