e-Bulletin Sept 07

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Highlights

Circus Monoxide: Crash'n'Burn
10 – 23 September, Bathurst
28 September – 1 October, Batemans Bay
5 – 7 & 11– 14 October, Wollongong
Acrobatic spectacle, a live band and gut-wrenchingly beautiful aerial routines are interspersed with eccentric acts in the tradition of vaudeville and sideshow in Circus Monoxide's all new touring show Crash n Burn. Marvel at the madness and danger of acclaimed sideshow act 'The Birdmann and The Librarian,' as they perform the 'Bucket of Death' and other absurdities! Be swept away by Australia's top aerial artists, as they execute heart-in-mouth aerial acrobatics with an emotional force that will leave you weak at the knees! Meet 'Guido,' the show's surprise 'guest act,' given to poetic German Wheel routines and hilarious ruminations on love. Gasp at the risk and raw force of the Monoxide acrobats! Circus Monoxide's new show is fresh, ecclectic and authentic, with plenty of improvisation, play and connection with the audience. A wicked evening of original physical performance and popular theatre; a riotous night out for the whole family. Premiering at the Catapult Festival (see below). Contact Tel 02 4285 0066 Email al@circusmonoxide.com.au Website www.circusmonoxide.com.au
More about Circus Monoxide and the Catapult Festival (see below) on The Program website here

Catapult Festival
12 – 16 September, Bathurst
Fling Physical Theatre perform Territory  @ Eden Skate ParkThe first festival in Australia to showcase the skills of young circus and physical theatre performers is now a biennial national event. Catapult also attracts some of the best adult professional performers currently practising across the country such as Circus Monoxide, Stalker, Legs on the Wall, Kate Champion and others. The festival presents a workshop and forum program alongside eleven public performances with professionals and youth troupes performing together. Young circus groups involved include Zany Yare (Lower Blue Mountains), Warehouse Circus (Canberra), Swoop Physical Theatre (Belrose). Cirkus Surreal (Kelso), Aerialize (Marrickville), Brophy Academy (Gosford), Brewarrina Circus, Circus West (Dubbo) and Fling Physical Theatre (Bega). Catapult coincides with National Circus Day on 13 September. A colourful circus parade will stop traffic in the town on Saturday 15 September. Website www.catapultfestival.com.au
Fling Physical Theatre from Bega will be re-staging Territory, a work developed with guest artist Jodie Farrugia, with Regional Arts Fund support (pictured), at Catapult.

Angus McDonald, Still, work from the Antarctica seriesAntarctica, Angus McDonald, Frank Hurley
Until 13 October, Lismore
Angus McDonald is an internationally acclaimed contemporary artist who lives and works in Lennox Head in the Northern Rivers. McDonald recently travelled to Antarctica where he worked as an expedition artist for a month at the invitation of the Mawson's Hut Foundation. This exhibition at the Lismore Regional Gallery includes photography, paintings and a chair, all by new work by McDonald, as well as beautiful historical photographs by Frank Hurley, who participated in numerous landmark expeditions to the Antartica. Antarctica is staged with the support of the Mawson's Hut Foundation ahead of an exhibition of McDonald’s Antarctic work opening in London later this month. At Lismore Regional Gallery Tel 02 6628 8120 Website www.lismoregallery.org

The Moorambilla Festival of New Australian Music
14 – 16 September, Coonamble
Boys Choir at the 2006 FestivalArtistic director, Michelle Leonard, has been in the heart of the Pilliga at Baradine in the past few months, fine tuning the talents of the 146 boys and girls from 28 different schools participating in the Moorambilla Festival this year in preparation for the largest event of its kind in the Outback. Following the success of the festival last year, 2007 promises to be even bigger and with an expanded program including more workshops, more choirs, more concerts and more visitors. Come and experience a unique singing experience in beautiful art deco & historic buildings. Grab a workshop pass and attend up to 10 workshops - from the ‘drumming circle’ to ‘the Elvis elective’ to the ‘Open Piano bar’! Check out 2007 Moorambilla mural at the Coonamble swimming pool. One of the highlights this year will be a spectacular lantern parade and lantern making workshops running daily from 3 September. Contact Steven Baldwin, Tourism Development Manager Mob 0408 824 179 or Sandra Harrison, Moorambilla Event Coordinator Mob 0428 312 630 Website www.moorambilla.com

Jali-Buba Kuyateh - performing at the Bellingen Global Carnival this yearBellingen Global Carnival: world music, art and dance
28 – 30 September, Bellingen
Bellingen's annual multi-arts festival is a celebration of Australian cultural diversity on the beautiful Mid North Coast. Spread over five performance areas, the event presents traditional, classical and contemporary concerts reflecting the diverse face of modern day Australia. There are workshops, outdoor physical theatre and a children’s festival with professional child minding. Art, craft and photography will be on display and the program includes a forum for discussing social and cultural issues as well as a market arena providing delicious food & craft from around the world. The focus is on contemporary music which draws from different cultures and juxtaposes the new with the more traditional, adding an eclectic mix of the best contemporary music Australia has to offer. Contact Bryony Taylor Tel 02 6655 3024 Email madamglobal@globalcarnival.com Website www.globalcarnival.com

The Deni Play on the Plains Festival & World Record Ute Muster
28 – 29 September, Deniliquin
Chick and her ute at the Deni Ute MusterIt's probably worth coming to Deni just to see the world's largest parade of legally registered utes, but there's so much more to this huge event: The Play on the Plains festival features a massive live entertainment program, competitions, parades and family activities and yes, there's even some ART. 2007 will see an entertainment smorgasbord of Australia's contemporary and country music royalty, including Lee Kernaghan, the Hoodoo Gurus, James Blundell, Troy Cassar-Daley, Felicity Urquhart, The Mcclymonts, Travis Collins, The Pigs, The Distance, & The Baileys; not to mention the Cruisin the Country hosts, Mel, Scotty, Col Finley and Kane Harrison. There's also a Day Stage featuring talented up and coming artists performing throughout each day and the Show n Shine arena is where over 100 proud ute owners showcase some of Australia's best utes with the chance to win the exclusive Ute of the Year award. Check the website for full details. Contact Tel 03 5881 3388 Website www.deniutemuster.com.au

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Regional Arts NSW News

New Board Members for Regional Arts NSW
We are delighted to welcome some new faces to the Regional Arts NSW Board:
Marise Sullivan is a lawyer with the Sydney based firm Middletons and was recommended by our patron, Justice Ian Gzell. Marise joins the Board in a co-opted position to bring her legal skills to the table.
A second co-opted member is Daniel Bolger. Based in Canberra, Daniel runs his own media company and will be contributing to our communications strategies.
Kym Fuller is the new Chair of West Darling Arts and has agreed to be their delegate to the State body. In his day job, Kym is the Manager Community and Economic Development for the Central Darling Shire Council, but in his spare time makes wooden furniture.
Following the August Board meeting, all Board members participated in a Board Masterclass presented by ABaF to enhance their skills in corporate governance. Regional Arts NSW is funding six more Board Masterclasses across the state in the forthcoming months to provide access to this program for those serving on regional boards. These are scheduled for Singleton, Orange, Albury, Dubbo, Ballina and Queanbeyan.
More information about the Board of Regional Arts NSW here

ArtReach Spring 2007 coverArtReach Spring 2007 – Out Now
The Spring edition of the Regional Arts NSW magazine is out now and it's packed with terrific stories about the best art work going on right now in regional, rural and remote NSW. Read about all the new developments at Bundanon, the 'living arts centre' in the Shoalhaven, reaching out to both local and international audiences with a raft of new initiatives. Find out why Tweed Shire Council is crowing about the outcomes from its major all-inclusive multi-arts performance project coming to the Northern Rivers later this year. Learn how TAFE's youth arts and skills program, ArtStart, is taking its Statewide festival and creative community online in November. Discover the inside story on the Art Gallery of NSW's extraordinary educational outreach program. PLUS: Port Macquarie's Glasshouse, "one of the most exciting new arts venues construction projects in Australia"; a look back at ten year's contribution to regional arts by the Windmill Scholarship; a preview of Moree's new gateway of giant carved red-gum tree trunks; an Aboriginal dance initiative in the Illawarra ... and more.
Find out more, order a copy, download an article on the Regional Arts NSW website here

New youth arts projects in the Northern Rivers
Nathan from R.E.D. (Realise Every Dream) Inc, in a 2006 performanceSeven youth arts projects have received funding from ArtStart, a TAFE NSW youth arts initiative managed in the Northern Rivers by Arts Northern Rivers. Three of the projects were funded as part of a strategic priority to provide access to arts projects for young people with disabilities. These received additional funds to cover costs associated with transport and fees for specialist carers and arts tutors. The seven grants were awarded to:
R.E.D Inc. (Realise Every Dream) (Lismore) for the production of Showboat of dreams.
Community Connections (Lismore) to engage the Creative People's Collective to deliver workshops in hip hop dance and MC-ing in Casino.
Caringa Enterprises (Grafton) for 'Tsunami Origami', a large scale visual arts and sculpture project.
South Grafton New School of Arts to teach workshop design and delivery skills.
Biala Support services (Ballina) to assist students to produce a mural at the Biala Special School, promoting sensory skills through textile and visual stimuli.
Siddhartha School (Kyogle), for 'Kyogle Girls Rap on Climate', a skills development workshop leading to the production of a CD and DVD
Byron Youth Service, to work with young people to create a professionally published book of art, photography and written expression.
Contact Peter Wood, Communications & Information Manager, Arts Northern Rivers Tel 02 6628 8120
Website www.artsnorthernrivers.com.au

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Other News

A Nest for Artists on the Northern Rivers
ABC North Coast recently launched an exciting new award that aims to discover new and emerging artists who live and work in the North Coast region. Called ABC North Coast ArtsNest 2007, the award will be made to an emerging artist who can demonstrate a commitment and dedication to their art and a desire to pursue a career as a professional artist. The award is about recognising achievement and nurturing potential and puts the focus on the artist rather then one piece of work. Arts Northern Rivers is a major partner in this project and is offering the winner a professional development plan to the value of $1000. There is a line up of renowned judges including Seachange creator Deb Cox, founding member of Midnight Oil, Rob Hirst, and local visual artist Angus McDonald who will cast their critical and artistic eyes and ears over the entries. More information, entry forms and terms and conditions onlinehere

Eden photographer wins City of Hobart Art Prize
Ruth Maddison, Kiah River, 28.1.2007The winners of the annual City of Hobart Art Prize 2007 were announced in Hobart at the Tasmanian Museum and Gallery on 3 August, with two main acquisitive prizes of $7,500 each in different categories/media ar awarded. The winner of this year's Photographic/ Digital Media Award is Ruth Maddison of Eden, NSW, for her Type C print. Kiah River, 28.1.2007. The other winner was Itzell Tazzyman for her entry in glass, Revealing our First Nature (Transcendence) II. An exhibition of the 54 finalists' work is on now at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart until 16 September 2007.
Full story on the Hobart City website here

Wagga artists win 2007 ArtLab funding
Regional NSW artist, Sarah Last and her collaborative team have been awarded 2007 ArtLab funding from the Australia Council for the Arts' Inter-Arts Office for a project to commence later this year. ArtLab aims to foster experimentation and new collaborations between artists from multiple disciplines in a program of research and development. Last and her team's project - The W I R E D Lab - will provide a permanent research site and resource for artists, musicians and scientific practitioners in a rural location on the south-west slopes of inland NSW. Participants will experiment with the sonic properties of wires and their capacities in visual, computation, science and medical realms. The other successful project to receive funding for this year is: Hellen Sky and collaborators for research focusing on the writing and performance of storytelling in the digital age.
More information on the Australia Council website here later this month.

Clarence Valley Council launches cultural plan
Clarence Valley Council is celebrating the completion and adoption of its first Cultural Plan with official launch events in Yamba and Grafton this month. The new Cultural Plan focuses on arts and cultural development and the support and assistance council offers to local galleries, theatres, arts and cultural groups, local events and festivals and individual artists across the Valley. Initiated a year ago and developed with assistance from cultural planner Sue Boaden, the Plan is based on community feedback and advice provided through community forums, consultations and surveys. It aims to foster and develop the Valley's already vibrant cultural life through a diverse range of strategies and initiatives.
Check out the Plan here [PDF]
Contact Brendan Smith, Cultural Development Coordinator Tel 02 6645 0231 Email

Councils recognised for commitment to NSW communities
20 NSW councils have been recognised for outstanding contributions to their communities at the Annual Local Government Awards held in Sydney on 1 August. Among the recipients were Eurobodalla Council which was recognised twice for commitment to Youth Week activities. Several rural and regional councils were nominated for awards, "a great indication of the commitment they have to their communities, despite restraints on their resources," Cr Miller said.
Full story on the LGSA website here

Danger Island resident wins Dobell Prize
ABC News Online reports that artist and Dangar Island resident Ana Pollak has won the 2007 Dobell Prize for drawing. The $20,000 prize was announced on 23 August at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Mullet Creek was described by judge Colin Lancely as, "an articulate and generous drawing that clearly refers to a river landscape." Pollak's work beat over 514 other entries, including 45 finalists.
Full story at ABC News online here

Finalists for 2007 Deadlys announced
Finalists for the 2007 Deadly Awards – the national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander awards – have been released and online voting is now underway. Country music or country-related artists feature in a number of categories... Patrick Davies and Shaz Lane for Most Promising NewTalent; Sharnee Fenwick (How ‘Bout Never) and Dan Sultan (Your Love Is Like A Song) for Single Release of the Year; Kev Carmody (Cannot Buy My Soul) for Album of the Year; Black Image for Band of the Year; Troy Cassar-Daley, Jessica Mauboy and Dan Sultan for Artist of the Year. Sharnee (pictured) and Troy both took home awards from last year's Deadlys, Sharnee for Most Promising New Talent Award and Troy, gongs for Single Release and Artist of the Year, an award he also won in 2004 and 2003 (adding to a number of previous wins in preceding years). As well as music, Deadlys are also presented in arts and sporting categories. Voting in the 2007 Deadlys closes September 14. Winners will be announced at the Awards presentation on Thursday September 27 at the Sydney Opera House. Website www.deadlys.vibe.com.au

Shaz at the launch of her EP Left it all BehindDubbo musician Sharon Lane up for a Deadly
Dubbo mum Sharon ‘Shaz’ Lane has recently been nominated for Most Promising New Talent in The Deadlys. In November 2006 Shaz released a 3 track EP Left it all Behind after deciding to take the next big step in her musical career. Earlier this year she performed at The Dreaming Festival in Woodford, Queensland backed by her two boys and she is currently working on her 12 track debut album due for release at the Woodford Folk Festival in December. The Deadlys recognise Indigenous artists at the top of their profession and Shaz is excited about her future prospects.

New Bush Laureate Award for children’s poetry
A Golden Gumleaf trophy will be awarded for verse for children at the 12th annual Australian Bush Laureates Awards to be presented in Tamworth in January 2008. A spokesperson said it was important that bush poetry catered for all ages. “There has always been a strong tradition of bush verse written for children and the Bush Laureate Awards feel this should be encouraged." Nominations for the 2008 Australian Bush Laureate Awards are now open. Contact Tel 02 6762 2993 Email info@bushlaureate.com.au
Nomination forms online here

Sam Smith wins Helen Lempriere Scholarship
Sam Smith, Video Camera [HDW-F900/3]/Video Lens [HJ11x4.7B], 2006Sam Smith has won the 2007 Helen Lempriere Travelling Art Scholarship, it was announced by Arts NSW recently. The scholarship is one of Australia’s most lucrative awards to emerging artists, valued at $40,000. Smith won with his installation piece, Video Camera [HDW-F900/3]/Video Lens [HJ11x4.7B], 2006. Also Highly Commended were Adam Costenoble, Grzegorz Gawronski, Soda_Jerk, Rachel Scott and Emma White. 2007 marks the 10th anniversary of the Helen Lempriere Travelling Art Scholarship and the partnership between the NSW Government and Perpetual Limited. An exhibition of entries is on view from until 8 September at Artspace in Wollomooloo.

2007 Freedman Foundation Travelling Scholars announced
The names of the five talented young Australians to win the prestigious 2007 Freedman Foundation Travelling Scholarship for Emerging Artists have been announced by the National Association for the Visual Arts. The winners of the $5,000 award are: Bridget Currie (SA) , Katya Grokhovsky (Vic) , Izabela Pluta (NSW , Keg De Souza (NSW) and Laura Woodward (Vic). The Freedman Foundation is a private philanthropic organisation which provides funding in medicine, science, music and the arts and the Travelling Scholarship is administered by NAVA.
Full story on the NAVA website here

AbaF, NAVA join forces to equip artists for business
An important new partnership has been forged between the peak bodies, Australia Business Arts Foundation (AbaF) and the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) to develop a website to assist visual artists with professional and business skills. The site will be valuable to visual artists, craftspeople and designers who are looking to improve their professional and business management skills to increase the commercial opportunities for their products and services. The new project will offer benefits to all non-accredited visual arts and craft/design training providers, and will seek their ongoing involvement. The site will be a central reference point and portal for information, providing links to the wide range of skills development opportunities which are offered around Australia.
Full story on the AbaF website here

New permit system a threat to Aboriginal art: NAVA
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) has concern that Aboriginal art may be under further threat as a result of the proposal in legislation currently going through Federal parliament, to remove the permit system operating in Indigenous communities. NAVA is currently finalising the Indigenous Australian Art Commercial Code of Conduct which will be a best practice guide for all those involved in the commercialisation of Indigenous art works.
Full story on the NAVA's website here

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New Resources

The RAA e-news #2Regional Arts Australia e-news #2
The second Regional Arts Australia e-newsletter features stories about the arts in regional and rural communities across the country:
tackling the road toll in the Northern Territory through song
Heartland, our own television show on the Ovation channel, which premiered 2 August and is repeated throughout the month
Carmen in the Hayshed: an opera performance in a town of 30 in rural Western Australia
An Indigenous recording studio is big hit with men in Tennant Creek
New media, old media – it’s all art with Launceston’s Running Madness
Photos capturing Victoria’s Koories
Surfing the sand dunes of Pinnaroo – toss a camera at a teenager-at-risk and see what happens.
... there's even some stories from New South Wales...
The Regional Arts Australia e-news is a new publication released every two months by the peak national body for the arts in regional, rural and remote Australia. Sign-up to receive the newsletter on the Regional Arts Australia website here (bottom left hand corner).
Check out the newsletter online here

MGnsw | the MAG
Issue 3 of the MAG 2007 focuses on urban and traditional Indigenous arts. Michelle Bateman reflects on the 40th anniversary year of the 1967 referendum and how it has affected Indigenous arts. Patricia Adjei (Arts Law Centre of Australia) shares her experiences at the 11th World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) Intergovernmental Committee meeting on protection of intellectual property, traditional knowledge, expressions of culture and genetic resources. Djon Mundine sends a message to young Aboriginal artists: 'be true to your BLAK consciousness' and Katy Alexander (M&GNSW) explores issues addressed at the Black2Blak conference at Campbelltown Arts Centre. Interviews with Barrina South, Browyn Bancroft and NSW Minister for Fair Trading, Youth and Volunteering, The Hon Linda Burney also feature.
Available for download on the Museums & Galleries NSW website here.

Philip Bacon new guest curator on VAN website
The Northern Rivers' Visual Arts Network (VAN) is delighted to advise that Philip Bacon AM is the latest guest curator on its website. The site includes an online gallery, information about VAN events and help for artists. VAN also supports the professional development of local artists with curatorial panels, provide artists with an opportunity to have their work critically assessed by high profile curators and gallery directors from around Australia. In this section of the website each visiting guest curator selects an outstanding artist to be featured on the site and discusses their work.
Check it out  here

Art in space: Tamworth Gallery now online
Screen shot from the Tamworth Regional Gallery websiteTamworth Regional Gallery has launched its very first dedicated website. Until now the gallery has benefited from promotion through the Tamworth Regional Council website but it now has its very own site containing a large amount of information about the gallery and its programs. Visitors to Tamworth Regional Gallery website will have access to information on current and future exhibitions, public programs, Tamworth Regional Gallery Friends, volunteers and much more.
Check out the new Tamworth Regional Gallery online here

716 Craft Design newsletter716 Craft Design
The e-newsletter of Craft Australia is a jam-packed national snapshot of craft news, views, issues, events and opportunities. In the August issue of 716 craft·design online news, Craft Australia focuses on Australian Indigenous contemporary craft·design practice and includes a showcase of artists, Aboriginal craft centres and other news and listings. Subscriptions to this excellent news service are free. Website www.craftaustralia.com.au/716/issue/023.php

Virtually Edna
Virtually EdnaDame Edna Everage is probably the most popular and gifted woman in the world today. Housewife, investigative journalist, social anthropologist, talk show host, swami, children's book illustrator, megastor, celebrity spin doctor and icon. With Olivia Newton-John, Kylie Minogue, Nicole Kidman and Dame Joan Sutherland, she is the most prominent of a remarkable succession of female stars to emerge frm Australia. Virtually Edna will take you into Dame Edna's online crevices, where she is joined by a supporting cast of celebrities.
Explore Edna's walk-in wardrobe and see her happy snaps here

Tech-savvy communications: a toolkit for non-profits
Aimed at teaching non-profits how to take better advantage of online communication tools, the Tech-Savvy Communications toolkit was released by NPower Seattle, an organisation that helps non-profits in Washington (USA) to use technology to serve their communities. Includes an overview of how to develop an effective message for your organisation, as well as a survey of communication tools (such as RSS feeds, blogs, and podcasts) you can use to deliver that message.
Download the toolkit  here [PDF]

UK Audience Development Specialist, Katy Raines: Building Customer Loyalty and Value
For those you who were unable to be at UK consultant Katy Raines’ exceptional seminar in Sydney in July on developing good customer relationship management practices to increase both marketing and development income, a video of the presentation with accompanying Powerpoint is now available on the AbaF website. Highly recommended for any performing arts organisation or indeed anyone who sells tickets to events and wants to better manage their relationship with their audience.
Access the presentation online here

ARC, OzCo | Rethinking Arts & Education report
Educating for the Creative Workforce: Rethinking Arts and Education is a recent report produced by the ARC Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries & Innovation (CCI) and the Australia Council for the Arts. The report argues that there is strong evidence for the relationship between arts education and a variety of social or 'non cognitive' skills, from self-confidence to communication skills. A PDF of the report is available for download from the CCI website.
Download the report  here [PDF]

MGnsw | The Big Chill: Self Censorship in an Age of Uncertainty
A summary of proceedings from The Big Chill seminar organised by MGnsw on 30 March 2007 in Sydney. Chaired by Gary Corbett (Tweed Shire Council), 'The Big Chill: Self-Censorship in an age of uncertainty' addressed the issue of self-censorship in the arts community in Australia. Keynote speakers included: Paul Sheehan (The Sydney Morning Herald), Sheona White (Art Gallery of NSW), Dr Peter Stanley (National Museum of Australia). Panellists included: Katherine Giles (Arts Law Centre of Australia), Kon Gouriotis OAM (Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre & Liverpool Regional Museum), Alan Sisley (Director, Orange Regional Gallery).
Find the summary on the MGnsw website here

Jennifer Craik: re-visioning arts and cultural policy
While some areas of public policy are well served by relevant policy literature, the arts and culture area has generally not received much attention from public policy analysts. This monograph by Jennifer Craik offers a critical and historical analysis of the main imperatives of arts and cultural policy in Australia. It examines options for governments to respond to public debate about involvement in enhancing, fostering and shaping the artistic and cultural production and consumption of their jurisdictions.
Download the monograph from the ANU website here

NSW FTO | Stacks of Facts
Stacks of Facts is a directory prepared annually by the FTO for the film and television industry. It outlines the contact details, filming policies, fee schedules and other important information for metropolitan and regional councils, government departments and various NSW locations. The directory also contains information on the eight Regional Film Offices, which exist specifically to assist productions in regional New South Wales. Free from the FTO here

Screenlinks | Online production directory
A new on-line tool for businesses to source all their screen and multimedia needs in the Mid North Coast and Armidale regions without having to go to Brisbane or Sydney to find professionals. Find professional web designers, graphic designers, corporate video producers, television or radio commercial producers, actors and/or media trainers. Also free for companies to register their skills and businesses.
Find it on the Screenlinks website here

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Project Reports

The Civic Big BandThe Civic Big Band in Gloucester
May 2007, Gloucestor
An added and most welcome feature of this year's Shakespeare Festival in Gloucester was the opportunity to participate in two very professional and entertaining performances by the Civic Big Band, a group of former Newcastle Conservatorium students with a love of jazz. The band's cohesive group dynamics, humour and obvious love of their music and its instruments provided a valuable experience for rural audiences who do not have much opportunity for such musical inter-reaction. Band members also showed an awareness of this need, and read their audiences well. Thanks to the involvement of the band, a wider audience was able to be drawn in to the cultural activities that comprised the 2007 Shakespeare Festival week in this, its ninth year.
Contact Leone Hooke, Shakespeare Commitee Email leonehooke@ozemail.com.au or Civic Big Band contact Susanne Daoud Mob 0416 022 464 Email suedy@hunterlink.net.au
This project was made possible with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program

In Site Out
October 26 – November 18, Orange
Nicole Connely, The Angel’s Kiss,  In Site Out 2005From sculptures to potato portraits, workshops for kids to silky banners, 30 initial works have been selected for the third in this biennial temporary and ephemeral outdoor art event in Orange. The proposals came from a wide range of local, interstate and even international artists, both professional and emerging, including TAFE and university students. In Site Out takes over the 17 hectare hillside site in Orange, dotting it with art installations and for the first time this year including performance, workshops, an arts market and food. Schools from central west NSW have now been invited to get involved – by performances, presentations or workshops. This event this year is also partnering with the Orange Wine Week and a new TasteWaste program for schools to be both a tourism drawcard for the area and an event visited and participated in by the local community.
Contact Arts OutWest Tel 02 6338 4657
A project of Arts OutWest, supported by Arts NSW, the Regional Arts Fund, Orange Regional Arts Foundation and Orange City Council.

L-R: Councillor John Anderson, Shoalhaven City Council's Arts Board Chairman, Lars Hargraves, from Shoalhaven High School and one of the 22 gifted and talented students who took part in the workshops to produce the art work, with Jill Talbot, Education Officer from Bundanon TrustPresenting a student’s journey
2006 – 2007, Shoalhaven
When 22 students from four Shoalhaven high schools were asked to focus on how they relate to their home town little did they know that the reflective and complicated task would result in an art work spanning 12 metres that ends up in a regional art gallery . The completed work, Journey of a Generation, was presented by the students to the Shoalhaven City Arts Board Chairman Councillor, John Anderson, recently and is now be housed in the Shoalhaven City Art collection. The students, identified as gifted and talented, attended three one-day workshops at the Boyd Education Centre, Riversdale, in west Cambewarra, in October and November 2006 to complete the work. The final artwork, which can be folded [concertina-like] is now on view now at at the Shoalhaven City Arts Centre, along with the exhibitions (including the Meerogal Women's Arts Prize ) until 26 September.
Contact Shoalhaven City Arts Centre Tel 02 4422 0648 Email artscentre@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au

Bangers & Mash
26 October, Mendooran
Promotional poster for the Mendooran showThe presentation of this live production in Mendooran will be a first for the small rural town and they're going to make the most of it! In an area which has suffered the effects of the ongoing drought, Bangers and Mash comes at an opportune time and is expected to be well received. For some local people, a live theatrical performance will be a completely new experience. The beautiful Mendooran Mechanics Institute Hall provides an ideal venue with ample space for performance, which will be preceded by a themed dinner, professionally catered for by a Dubbo company. It should be a great night of fun and entertainment.
Contact Jenny Lloyd or Phil McCormack Tel 02 6886 1480 Email mendpo@bigpond.com.au
This project was made possible with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program

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What's On

Pioneer Village, InverellCelebration of the Outback Festival
1 – 2 September, Inverell
A bunch of talented bush poets, musicians and comedians join forces to create a genuinely entertaining weekend. Start with the Poets Pub Crawl on Friday afternoon and follow the bush poets around Inverell’s watering holes. On Saturday afternoon, the performers gather for lunch and laughter in the Big Marquee at Pioneer Village. Entertainers include rising star Melanie Dyer, singing duo Jackie Press and Kelvin Cox, and irreverent storytellers Malcolm McCloud and Max Taylor. Poetry contests will be staged throughout the afternoon. Bush balladeers Gary Fogarty and Alec Beckett headline the Gala Performance Night on Saturday evening and there’ll be classic bush music to enjoy. On Sunday, the main event is the Father’s Day Bush Breaky from 8.30am at the Big Marquee in Pioneer Village, a collection of original buildings and homes from the district that vividly reconstructs Australian life in the 19th century. Contact Inverell Tourism Tel 02 6728 8161

Earth Songs
Carolyn Clarke, Morning Flight1 September – 28 October, St Albans
Well known local artist, Carolyn Clarke has gained wide recognition for her luminous desert paintings, figurative works and local scenes in mixed media. Her new exhibition Earth Songs is inspired by the patterns, rhythms and glorious colours of the Australian landscape.The Hawkesbury area, with its rivers, valleys, mountains, forests, and patterns of cultivation and settlement, is contrasted with the remote and wild area of Central Australia - where vast blue skies and the glowing oranges and ochres of the landforms stretch silently into the distance. Carolyn's unique style and use of perspective enables her the freedom to explore the crossover between traditional landscapes and abstraction. Vibrant mixed media paintings and unique black and white works are produced on impressive large canvases and smaller framed works. AT St Albans Gallery 17 Wharf St, St Albans. Tel 02 4568 2286 Email stalbansgallery@myisp.net.au

Melissa Lazarou, Wide Open SpacesWide Open Spaces
1 – 30 September, Canowindra
A joint exhibition of Melissa Lazarou and Amber Martin with the centrepiece their joint work Wide Open Spaces which will be silently auctioned during September. Melissa delves into panoramic landscapes for the first time and Amber presents her popular boot polish works. Proceeds from the auction will go to a selected charity. Opens Saturday September 1, 6.30pm. Old Vic Inn, Gaskill St, Canowindra.

Tanja Ackerman, Blue Impermanence
1 September – 6 October, Coffs Harbour
Impermanence is a solo exhibition of a suite of thirteen works by photographer Tanja Ackerman. These intense, beautiful and emotive images explore the power yet fragility of life. John Gordon Gallery, 360 - 362 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. Tel 02 6651 4499 Email tanja_ackerman@hotmail.com
Website www.johngordongallery.com

Four Seasons concert series - Spring
2 September, Murwillumbah
Featuring Emmanual College Carrara, 25 piece string orchestra, Spirit Song Vocal Group, soprano Lecia Robertson and pianist Adam Thomas, a concert not to be missed. All Saints Anglican Church, Murwillumbah 2.00pm. The orchestra will also play at the 9.00am service. Tickets $10/$5. Tel 07 5590 8247

Stephen Hough. Photo: Grant HiroshimaMusica Viva presents Stephen Hough
4 September, Armidale
Internationally acclaimed pianist Stephen Hough will be presenting a programme of nineteenth century piano music by composers Mendelssohn, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy and Liszt. Hough is a mesmerising performer who can draw audiences to the very depth of his imagination. He deploys his phenomenal technique with great intelligence and warmth. Stephen Hough has appeared regularly with major American and European orchestras under conductors including Abbado, Ashkenazy, Dohnányi, Dutoit, Gergiev, Maazel and Vänskä. He has been a frequent guest at festivals such as Salzburg, Edinburgh and Aldeburgh in Europe and the Hollywood Bowl in the US. At London’s BBC Proms he has made over a dozen concerto appearances. 7pm, at Lazenby Hall UNE. Contact Nickie Murcell Mob 0422 000 170 Email nickie.murcell@dpc.nsw.gov.au

The Dora Fay Davenport Show – How to Achieve Domestic Bliss
5 – 8 September, Wagga Wagga
Clarence Cartwright and Dora Fay Davenport on set. Picture: George Serras, National Museum of AustraliaTurn your clocks back 50 years. The dust has just settled on the Melbourne Olympics. Bob Menzies is still in the lodge and the epitome of Australian womanhood, Dora Fay Davenport, is queen of the airwaves. Set in 1957, The Dora Fay Davenport Show offers precise advice for the modern woman about everything from stain removal to social approval. Reminisce about our homes, our families and our daily lives including cooking, flower arranging and television etiquette during the 1950s. An outstanding piece of nostalgia theatre, on tour for the first time from the National Museum of Australia, the Dora Fay Davenport Show draws inspiration from the Museum's historic collection. Convenient morning and lunchtime performances, and an evening show Friday. Tickets $5 Bookings Tel 02 6926 9655 Website www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/museum

Indigenous Literacy Day
5 September
Can you imagine a world without books and reading? Indigenous Literacy Day is a single event to help raise urgently needed funds to address the crisis in literacy in remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory and north-west NSW. In partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation, the Indigenous Literacy Project is an initiative of the Australian Book Industry and has been running for the past three years. Last year over 14,000 participants, including schools, libraries, booksellers, publishers and individuals helped raise $80,000. All funds raised will be used to purchase books and literacy resources and will go directly to The Fred Hollows Foundation which works hand-in-hand with the Jawoyn communities located east of Katherine in the Northern Territory and in Wilcannia in NSW. Over 200 booksellers and publishers have pledged their financial support to help raise the target of $100K. You can help support the project by buying a book at participating bookshops on Wednesday 5 September or by making a donation. Website www.worldwithoutbooks.org

Drumming on Water production shotDrumming on Water
5 September, Bombala
6 September, Jindabyne
7 September, Bega
8 September, Cobargo
9 September, Merimbula
Drumming on Water, by Canberra author Geoff Page, spins a tale of murder and retribution in Sydney of the 1930s. An all-girl band wows the crowd on a Showboat ferry, but when the lead singer falls overboard the drummer doesn't believe it's an accident. Her window on a bright world has been closed and she wants revenge. With a secret weapon, Emma confronts the last man to see Lizzie alive! Much later, her secret is revealed. Directed by Kate Gaul, with design by Imogen Keen, Drumming on Water features Chrissie Shaw as the older Emma, and young musician and composer Sylvia Mitchell appearing as the memory of the band, with an evocative and hypnotic underscore on saxophone. Drumming on Water won a Critics' Circle Award in 2006 for overall excellence of production. Advance bookings $20/ $15. Door Sales $22/$18. Tel 1300 667 136.

Big Screen touring Australian film festival
6 – 9 September, Nambucca Heads
Clubland director Cherie Nowlan with actor Brenda BlethynNambucca Heads will enjoy a weekend of Australian film when Big Screen comes to town. Special guest Cherie Nowlan, the director of Clubland, will open the festival at 6.15pm on Friday 7 September by introducing the film and answering questions from the public. A big hit at the Sundance Film Festival, Clubland stars UK actress Brenda Blethyn. Another highlight of the festival is Matthew Saville's critically acclaimed film Noise, starring Brendan Cowan. Noise is about a reluctant cop with tinnitus who finds himself at the centre of a community's emotional response to a spate of violent murders. The other films on the menu are Newsfront (1978), Razzle Dazzle (2007), Elephant Tales (2006) The Silly Billies Save the Circus!!! (2006), Opal Dream (2006) and Cherie Nowlan's debut feature Thank God He Met Lizzie (1997). Full program online. All films at the Nambucca Cinema Centre, Nambucca Plaza Tel 02 6568 6677 Website www.afc.gov.au/bigscreen

Bette Mifsud, Cathedral, 2004Searching for Here
6 – 30 September, Blackheath
An exhibiton of photographic works by artist Bette Mifsud. This selection of two dimensional works spans a decade and represents a deep and multi-faceted enquiry into the nature of photographic representation and perception. For Bette Mifsud photography is the springboard from which to begin to perceive "what is shown and what hides itself ... to see beyond, through and beside photographs". For this reason her often haunting artworks form a visual philosophy that beautifully reconciles photography with painting. At Hat Hill Gallery, 3 Hat Hill Road Blackheath Contact Tel 02 4787 7033 Email info@hathillgallery.com.au Website www.hathillgallery.com.au

The Epiphany of Ben Hall promotional posterThe Epiphany of Ben Hall
6 September, Parkes
7 September, Cowra
8 – 9 September, Forbes
One man show with Grenfell born actor Sean Barker, written by Barry Dickins. The play focuses on the murder of Ben Hall and the story of the official cover up by the police and will be performed in the very towns that he held in fear over a century ago. 8pm, 6 September, Little Theatre Parkes. 8pm, 7 September, Cowra Civic Centre. 8pm, 8 September, Forbes Town Hall. 5pm, 9 September, Albion Hotel Forbes. Contact Gorkem Acaroglu Mob 0415 768 996 Email gorkem_a@hotmail.com

Starburst by Keith Rowe
7 September – 12 October
Keith Rowe’s newest series of hand blown glass explores outer space with bursts of light embedded in the dark and mysterious glass. An exhibition with real cosmic sparkle and all for sale. An opportunity to own a special piece from the studio of one of the Blue Mountains’ more startling international artists. Opens Friday 7 September 6-8pm. Fox's Gallery, William Street, Bathurst Tel 02 6331 8699

Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards Ceremony
7 September, Gunnedah
National winners in the biggest poetry writing competition for school students will recite their poems and receive their prizes at the awards night ceremony. More than 15,100 entries were received this year from schools across the country. One of the judges for this year’s awards, author Prue Mason, will also be conducting creative writing workshops at local schools in Gunnedah, made possible with a grant from Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program. Contact the project manager Tel 02 6742 1200

Australian Poetry Slam 07 Heat
7 September, Orange
Poetry Slam is an event with growing popularity and a fun poetry competition with a live audience. Each contestant has two minutes to impress the judges with their own original word artistry using spoken-word, poetry, hip-hop, monologue and even story. Award-winning poet Miles Merrill will run the poetry slam heat as well as perform his own original pieces. 6.30pm for 7pm start, Orange City Library, Civic Square Orange. Free. Contact Tel 02 6393 8125

Rural Reflections: two plays by Anne Frost
Until 8 September, Newcastle
Presented by Newcastle’s multi award winning professional company, Shakespeare et al. Both plays are set in Stroud, a picturesque small country town north of Newcastle which was once a thriving milk producing area.They have strong rural themes and reflect the influences, good and bad, past and present, of living in the country. Grace looks at the nature of compassion and its impact on global humanity through the charitable actions and recollections of a rural woman. Lost Property is an exploration of biological, material and emotional inheritance in the context of the division of a family farm. Performances at the Playhouse.
7.30pm until 8 September and at 2.00pm Saturday 1 and 8 September. Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets old or new for donation to any performance.Tickets $38/ $35/ $25 Tel 02 4929 1977

National Poetry Week
Until 9 September, Nationwide
National Poetry Week seeks to foster partnerships with poets, audiences, communities, artists, students, bookstores and arts organisations, and organisers are invited to promote their events. Most events are organised on a voluntary basis with the goodwill of venue managers, volunteer coordinators, poets, organisations and individuals who share an interest in poetry. If you are passionate about poetry and the need to bring it alive in the streets and consciousness of the broader public, you are invited to join the team of organisers for this year. Various venues. Website www.nationalpoetryweek.com

Ocean to Outback – Australian Landscape Paintings 1850-1950
Until 22 September, Tamworth
An National Gallery of Australian travelling exhibition documenting landscape painting from the colonial 1850s to the immediate period following World War II. Throughout the 20th century, landscape painting was the 'great' subject of Australian art, a theme that reflected the changing nature of a nation's identity. Landscape subjects also became popular with the general public as Australians began to visit their own museums and galleries to see images of their country. Featured painters include Arthur Boyd, Grace Cossington Smith, Russell Drysdale, Sidney Nolan, Arthur Streeton and Albert Tucker. At Tamworth Regional Gallery. Contact Tel 02 6767 5511 Email gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au Website www.tamworthregionalgallery.com.au

Peter Sykes Photographic Exhibition
Until 30 September, Goulburn
Photographs by Peter Sykes are of Goulburn and the surrounding district and on exhibition at the Goulburn Club in Market Street. Peter spends much of his spare time photographing the environment we live in, recording his memories, experiences and passions, for others to enjoy and remember. Contact Mob 0403 081 805 Email awimages@hotkey.net.au

Migaay Arndu Karobran (women come together)
1 – 25 September, Gilgandra
An exhibition by Aboriginal women from the Wiradjuri clan in NSW at the Coo-ee Heritage Centre. Artists will collectively display their individual forms and techniques. The exhibition can be seen as a gathering of a combination of contemporary and traditional artwork from regional & local artists, who are descendents from the Wiradjuri and Gamilaraay tribes. Each artist has used have their own distinct mediums and techniques to tell a story. One of those stories revolves around the Stolen Generation by artist Niri Reynolds. Gilgandra Coo-ee Heritage Centre, Newell Highway, Gilgandra. Contact Libby Carr Tel 02 6817 8700 Email tourism@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au Website www.gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

Eye to Eye
8 September – 11 November, Dubbo
An exhibition which brings together work by contemporary artists who are exploring our complex relations with animals at a time when the animal and human interaction is coming under increasing scrutiny. Eye to Eye investigatres the extent to which the gaze and reciprocal gaze between humans and animals are critical to the animal-human relationship. At the Western Plains Cultural Centre. Contact Tel 02 6801 4444 Website www.wpccdubbo.org.au

Work from Wild Blooms by Karen MaWild Blooms
13 – 30 September, Morpeth
Karen Ma's exhibition celebrates the vibrancy and spontaneity of spring, the season’s abundance, its jewelled palette, energy and renewal. An exhibition of paintings, sculptural metallic blooms and poetic paper works. Greenway Gallery, 166 Swan St Morpeth, Tel 02 4934 6411 Mob 0412 524 682

Macquarie Philharmonia in Concert
14 September, Cowra
15 September, Dubbo
16 September, Bathurst

Macquarie Philharmonia draws together professional, student and community musicians from the Blue Mountains to Dubbo for its annual concert series. Conducted by Canadian Maestro Leonard Camplin CD the Orchestra will perform a spectacular animal-themed program in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of Western Plains Zoo. The twilight concert on 15 September at the zoo will be the highlight of the tour. The program will include animal inspired musical pieces including Carnival of the Animals by Saint-Saen, The Lion King by Hans Zimmer, and The Kookaburra who Stole the Moon by Peter Winkler. A menagerie of elephants, kangaroos, kookaburras, swans, lions and wombats will delight the smallest tadpole to the biggest fish. Tickets $40 family/$20/$15. Cowra Civic Centre, 7pm Tel 02 6342 4333. Western Plains Zoo Dubbo, 6pm Tel 02 6885 1633. St Stanislaus College Bathurst, 3pm Tel 02 6331 5994).
Contact Sarah Conolan Mob 0424 612 138 Email sarah@macquariephilharmonia.org Website www.macquariephilharmonia.org

Work by John WinchA Personal Odyssey: The art of John Winch 1967-2007
14 September – 28 October, Orange
The art of John Winch 1967-2007. John Winch is a central west based artist with an international following. This exhibitoin celebrates the painting, drawings, sculptures, prints and illustrations from forty years of dedicated artistic practice. At Orange Regional Art Gallery, Byng St Orange. Contact Tel 02 6393 8136

Re:Staged Works
14 September – 28 October, Boorogul
A decade after Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery’s project Staged Works, this sequel exhibition revisits the sense of theatre intrinsic to many contemporary artworks. The selected artists all reveal the lessons of the stage by working with the dramatic potential of light, sound, movement, and/or costuming to construct
immersive environments and distil narrative. A gallery project curated by Meryl Ryan. Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery. Contact Tel 02 4965 8260 Email artgallery@lakemac.nsw.gov.au Website www.lakemac.com.au

New Sydney Wind QuintetNew Sydney Wind Quintet
16 September, Port Macquarie
The Sydney Conservatorium-based woodwind quintet will perform a program of works by Francaix, Ravel, Ligeti, and Nielsenwhich. 2pm at the Uniting Church, Sherwood Road, Port Macquarie. Sponsored by Camden Haven Arts Council and Musica Viva Australia. Tickets $33/ $30/$10. Contact Catherine Davis Tel 02 6582 0142

The Dresser
19 September – 6 October, Newcastle
A Newcastle Theatre Company production. The Dresser charts the slow demise of British theatre companies during World War II and focusses on the character of ‘Sir’ who is about to make his 227th appearance as King Lear. But with 30 minutes to curtain-up, the ageing actor is already suffering from severe stagefright and his dresser ‘Norman’ must rally his troubled boss and get him ready for his first entrance, while constantly having to remind him of his opening lines. The Dresser shows the driving force behind the day to day drama, and comedy, of these wonderful companies. Directed by Isobel Denholm and starring popular local actors Lindsay Carr as ‘Norman’, Alan Bodenham as ‘Sir’ and Nola Wallace as ‘Her Ladyship’. Contact Tel 02 4952 4958 Email newrep@bigpond.net.au

Daniel Brinsmead, Sugar Daddy, 2007Sweet Transformations – a roving art opening
24 September, Grafton
Grafton Regional Gallery launches its Art Outreach Program in four locations on the one day this month with Sweet Transformations, a program which highlights the cross-over between writing and the visual arts. Four artists and four writers from the North Coast region have created works reflecting the effect that the sugar industry has made on the social, economic, community and landscape of the Clarence Valley. The project consists of a series of four small outreach exhibitions at Yamba Library (10am) , Iluka Library (3pm) , Maclean Library (12pm) and Maclean Council foyer (1pm) and a group exhibition at the Grafton Regional Gallery. The collaborative artists and writers are: Robert Moore and Natalie Moore; Alison Williams and Rex Marshall; Rindi Salomon and Heather Roper and Daniel Brinsmead and Daniel Ducrou. An integral part of Sweet Transformations is the Art and Text Forum presented by Jill Eddington with selected artists and writers at the Brushgrove Hall on 8 September, exploring the text in art, art in writing and writing about art. Children can also enjoy a free art workshop with Rindi Salomon and Maclean Library on Thursday 13 September at 11am. Email gallery@clarence.nsw.gov.au Website www.graftongallery.nsw.gov.au

The Gilgandra Cooee Festival
28 September – 1 October
Promises to be a great family weekend packed full of events, including the official opening by General Cosgrove, a street parade, market stalls, tethered Air Force hot air balloon rides, a Cooee calling competition, novelty events, rodeo, picnic at the Flora Reserve, music and entertainment, fireworks display, and much more. More information online. Websites www.oranaarts.com or www.gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

The Narromine Air Pageant
28 – 30 September, Narromine
The Narromine Air Pageant & Evolution of Flight Festival 2007 celebrates 88 years of aviation in Narromine. This festival includes aerial demonstrations, joy flights, commercial trade exhibits, and display aircraft including a replica of the first ever flying machine the Wright Flyer. Special guest will be the inspirational Janine Shepherd, author of Never Tell Me Never, Dare To Fly and Reaching For Stars. Narromine Aerodrome. Website www.narromineairpageant.com.au

Cherry Blossom Festival
26 – 30 September, Cowra
Cowra Japanese Garden is the venue for a host of activities including tea ceremonies, bonsai demonstrations, ikebana demonstrations, sumo wrestling tournament, kite making and more. Contact Tel 02 6341 2233 Website www.cowrajapanesegarden.com.au

Little Birdy
27 September, Bangalow
Described by presenters as "one of a startling new generation of bands to explode out of the isolated musical hotbed of Perth," Little Birdy have had five ARIA Award nominations over two years. "Bewitching and bold, Little Birdy combine true showmanship in the form of front woman Katy Steele who purrs and prowls her way across the stage, and the fine musicianship of a band who means business." All Ages show at the A&I Hall. Tickets $25/23/ $28. Website www.kupromotions.com.au

Mr McGee & The Biting Flea
27 – 28 September, Albury
Six whimsical stories by award winning children's writer, Pamela Allen, are presented in this surprising, charming, funny and frenetic production. The stories merge from dozens of suitcases and crates as three curious warehouse workers transform a storeroom into enchanting little miracles of music and play. Mr McGee and the Biting Flea will celebrate the possibilities of storytelling using the immediacy of theatre and the potential of childrens' imaginations. Tickets $13.50. Albury City Performing Arts Centre. Tel 02 6051 3051.

This Is Not Art Festival
27 September – 1 October, Newcastle
A jam-packed weekend showcasing the work and ideas of communities not included in other major festivals. Electrofringe will showcase electronic arts and culture. Critical Animals creative research forums will play with concepts of obscurity and obsession, academic art/instiution battles, literal literary journeys and much more. The Sound Summit will focus on independent artists, labels and people who work and play in the electronic and hip-hop scene. The National Young Writers Festival will bring together Australia's most challenging and original young writers, publishers, performers; and TiN Radio will focus on festival content with the latest events and updates. Website www.thisisnotart.org

Electrofringe
27 September – 1 October, Newcastle
Electrofringe 2007 is a festival of experimental electronic arts and culture dedicated to skills development and artistic exchange. It focuses on: experimental audio visual; performance; installation; music; and online, sound and screen-based art; and places a particular emphasis on encouraging exchange between emerging and established artists. The Festival will include hands-on workshops, panel discussion, masterclasses, presentations, exhibitions and screenings. Guests include Australian artists Cicada, Darrin Verhagen and Ross Bencina, and international presenters Tim Hecker (Canada), Leafcutter John (UK) and Sebastien Roux (France). Various venues. Website www.electrofringe.net

Coffs Harbour International Buskers and Comedy Festival
28 September – 6 October
Nine days of fun and laughter on the streets of Coffs Harbour. Buskers from all over the globe along with several great Aussies will light up the streets for 9 fantastic days. Most shows are free but bring some money for the buskers' hat. Tel 02 6652 8266 Website www.coffsharbourbuskers.com

Nambucca Valley Arts Council Biannual Art Show
28 September – 6 October
Opening night on Friday 28 September at 7.30pm at the Nambucca Entertainment Centre, prizes in this yea'rs show total over $5,000 in 12 Categories: paintings, drawings, photography, open craft and a youth section. Contact Lynne Greentree Tel 02 6569 4382.

Lots more What's On listings!
Needless to say, this is just a small sample of the huge number of arts and cultural events in regional and rural New South Wales this month. A number of Regional Arts Boards publish their own regional what's on listings which are available either on their websites or by (free) subscription:
Albury Wodonga Murray Arts' The Fridge at www.thefridge.org.au
Central West Arts OutWest's What's On at www.artsoutwest.org.au
Eastern Riverina Eastern Riverina Arts Program's e-Bulletin available on request by email
Far West Outback Arts e-Bulletin available on request by email
Mid North Coast Arts Mid North Coast's e-Bulletin at www.artsmidnorthcoast.org
Northern Rivers Arts Northern Rivers e-Bulletin available on request by email. Also signature event listings at www.artsnorthernrivers.com.au
North West Arts North West What's On listings at www.artsnw.com.au
Orana Orana Arts' e-Bulletin available at www.oranaarts.com
South East South East Arts Region (SEAR) Calendar available in PDF at www.sear.org.au
Southern Tablelands – Southern Tablelands Arts (STARTS) e-Bulletin available on request by email 
Upper Hunter – Arts Upper Hunter's bi-montly newsletter, ArtsBark, available on request by email

For more information about the Regional Arts Board network on the Regional Arts NSW website here.

More What's On listings around the ACT
Canberra Arts Marketing publishes a fabulous free fortnightly Arts Around Canberra newsletter in PDF which is available by subscription or on their website here. They also publish a Kids newsletter and the Arts Around Canberra website which is full of things to do and see in the Capital region. Check it out here

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Seminars, Workshops & Training

Sound & lighting workshop
1 – 2 September, Parkes
A workshop for regional theatre and musical societies with the technical staff from Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre. Limit of 16 attendees. 10am-5pm at Little Theatre, Parkes. Bookings Tel 02 6862 1267 Email Kimbar1@bigpond.com

Water colour workshop
2 – 3 September, Inverell
David Fam is a widely-acclaimed Inverell landscape painter who was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 1940. His love of drawing led to a career in Architecture and then to his painting in watercolours. David lives in Worongary, Queensland, where he paints full time and teaches watercolour painting. He will be coming to Inverell to teach a two day workshop this month. Contact the Inverell Gallery Tel 02 6722 4983.

Childrens art & craft workshops
6 – 29 September, Broken Hill
Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery is pleased to present its Term 3 art workshop program of fun-filled arts activities for children aged 4 - 6 and 7 - 14 years. Gallery staff Sue Reynolds and Ian Howarth will teach a range of art and craft skills. The younger children will make their own personalised clay stamps, creepy insect blots, magic bubble wrap discovery prints and jigsaw puzzles and the older will make their own exciting scratch board drawings, porcelain plate paintings, personalised clay stamps, zany mobiles, and sleek silk screen t-shirts. A range of art and craft techniques will be explored; etching, design, clay modelling and carving, construction, mono and screen printing, drawing and painting. Contact Tel 08 8088 6897 Email artgallery@brokenhill.nsw.gov.au

Sculpted Felt Shoulder Bag
8 – 9 September, Maclean
A practical course with Pamela Bates. Learn the technique of felting to make a sculpted dimensional two pocket shoulder bag in your own style. The technique can be used to create all sorts of other accessories. Materials required. Cost $130/ $125. Contact Lower Clarence Community College Tel 02 6646 9094 Email lcace@bigpond.net.au Website www.lcace.org.au

True Blue: Indigo Dyeing with Shibori resist
8 – 9 September, Braidwood
Spend a creative weekend in beautiful Braidwood learning Shibori, the Japanese art of tie-dyeing to achieve a range of beautiful patterns. The tied fabric is dipped in an indigo vat to dye it blue. At the Silken Tent 7 Clyde Street Braidwood. Cost: $200 plus some materials. Contact Gill Burke Tel 02 4842 2579 Email gilly@braidwood.net.au

Moving Object workshopThe Moving Object multi-arts workshops
8 September – 13 October, Rydal
Artists, performers and musicians of all ages are warmly invited to attend this series of six Saturday workshops with three oustanding tutors, culminating in performance presentations at the Rites of Spring Festival on 20 October. The workshop will develop key skills for participants in devising performance and generating original artistic material; creating sculptural objects and props to use in the work; creating performance/art/music relative to place; and generating creative content through cultural research. Artist Conductors are Willem Brugman (performer/director, Culture Lab International), Catherine Hassall (writer/performer, Culture Lab International) and Antony Symons (sculptor & creator of World-Gaia Sculpture Garden.) Contact Catherine Hassall Tel 02 4782 9740 Email cat@culturelab.org.au Website www.culturelab.org.au

Director’s workshops
10 & 14 September
Damien Millar teaches the directors and playwrights at NIDA, and is one of the most experienced actor-wranglers in town. Anyone interested attending in a directing workshop is welcomed and Damien can use some workshop attendees as actors as well, so those interested in acting get a skill flex as well. Numbers are limited so please book. Monday 10 September 6-9pm and Friday 14 September 5-8pm At The Hume Building Society Butter Factory Studio, Gateway Village Wodonga. Contact Murray Arts Tel 02 6021 5034 Email vnaimo@murrayarts.org.au

Youth Conference – From Rhetoric to Reality
12 – 13 September, Ballina
What are the opportunities and challenges facing young people in rural and regional Australia, today? The conference will be an opportunity to hear from some of the country's leaders in youth service delivery and research, to share success stories and to work together to improve outcomes for young people. The conference includes concurrent sessions for young people themselves to ensure their voices are heard in a youth-friendly atmosphere. Keynote speakers are Father Chris Riley (Youth off the Streets), Dr Rick van der Zwan (Psychologist), Alison Page (New Inventors panelist and designer) and David Eldridge (President of the National Youth Council). Togerher with the input of local young people and those who work with them, this conference promises to be a highlight of the 2007 calendar. Contact Valerie or Brett Tel 02 6622 3030 Email admin@nrsdc.org.au

LCSA Annual Conference 2007:
Community development in an age of individualism

12 – 13 September, Sydney
The LCSA Annual Conference 2007 logoGrassroots community development has been under valued and under siege over the last decade in Australia with the political doctrines of individualism and economic rationalism dominating policy and practice. The focus of many community based organisations has turned from community development to service provision. At the same time the practices of some centres and services have varied little over thirty years while the community context has changed rapidly around them. The role of community based organisations has been questioned and often discounted for more top down approaches driven by state or local government. Nevertheless, as the negative effects of the erosion of community break out in so many places policy makers are beginning to understand the value of community development and social capital in preventing many social ills and there have been many successful initiatives which have made a positive impact on their communities. It is these initiatives that are the focus of this conference. Website www.lcsa.org.au

Metal sculpture workshop
12, 19 & 26 September, Condobolin
Bring out your junk and let your imagination run free! At these free metal sculpture workshops during the school holidays you can learn from the skills and experience of the Grenfell Men’s Shed to convert old metal junk into animals, chairs, anything you can imagine. All you need is workboots, work clothes and an imagination. At Condobolin High School, Condobolin 2-7pm. Contact Anna Caskey, Lachlan Shire Council Tel 02 6895 4281

Working spaces for Museum Volunteers
14 – 16 September, Galong
A conference which aims to provide volunteers with 'hands-on' practical experience on topics such as paper and textile conservation, deaccessioning, design and marketing to name a few. Hosted by Museums Australia – Lachlan Chapter, the conference is to be held in Galong. Website www.lachlanmuseum.com.au

Singing leadership skills training
15 September, Wodonga
Led by Jane Coker from Community Music Victorial this workshop will be aimed at two streams of leadership: introducing people with little or no singing leadership experience to basic teaching skills; and introducing people with singing leadership experience to leadership skills for the 'instant singing session' concept. The training is subsidised and hopefully will encourage some of you to have a go at spread the joy and healthy benefits of singing through your community. 10am - 4.30pm at Wodonga Civic Centre. Cost $30/$22 Contact Karen Roben Tel 02 6021 5034 Email kroben@murrayarts.org.au

Basket weaving workshop
16 September, Mudgee
At Number Forty Seven, Mudgee with Dinah Coxsedge. Cost $40. Contact Tel 02 6379 1345

Zen Zen Zo Physical Workshop
16 – 20 September, Wollongong
Zen Zen Zo is a Brisbane-based physical theatre company that recaptures the ritualistic power of theatre by combining a striking visual and physical style with raw energy and emotional truth. This workshop will cover two of the training styles used by Zen Zen Zo to train their actors and create their productions: The Suzuki Method of Actor training from Japan; and Viewpoints, a style developed by renowned American director, Anne Bogart. Participants do not require any formal actor training - this is fun for everyone! Time 6pm - 9pm, Cost $190/ $160. Illawarra Performing Arts Centre. Participants must be 16 years and over. Bookings online. Contact Anne-Louise Rentell Tel 02 4226 3699 Email arentell@merrigong.com.au Website www.merrigong.com.au

The Creative Connections Roadshow: Arts and Dementia Community Awareness
18 September, Orange
A presentation to celebrate Dementia Awareness Week presented by Alzheimer’s Australia NSW in conjunction with the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care. Includes a tour of gallery. 2pm, Orange Regional Gallery. Contact Sue Benson Tel 02 8875 4640

Quilting and Textile Conservation Workshop
22 September, Orange
Kate Chidlow, textile conservator, will be talking about the preventative conservation - principles and practice for textiles display and storage. In conjunction with the Powerhouse Museum. 10am-2pm. Orange Regional Gallery Tel 02 6393 8136

AbaF | Securing Successful Partnerships
20 – 21 September, Sydney
Securing Successful Partnerships is a two-day workshop for cultural organisations managed by the Australian Business Arts Foundation (AbaF) which will introduce you to the business case approach. Participants will find out what business is looking for from a business-arts partnership and develop successful strategies for connecting with business. At Macquarie Bank, 9am - 4.30pm both days. Cost $275 including a copy of AbaF’s guide Securing Successful Partnerships: a guide for business and the arts. Contact Julia Hellyer Tel 02 9215 9313 Email hellyerj@abaf.org.au Website www.abaf.org.au/skillsdevelopment

Pastels workshop
22 – 23 September, Canowindra
Get your fingers dirty and experience with the range of styles and techniques possible with pastels in a workshop held by Robert Keen in the lovely town of Canowindra. In your spare timw browse one of the many galleries. River Bank Gallery, 71 Gaskill Street Canowindra. $160 for the weekend, includes lunches. Bookings Tel 02 6344 2778.

Spring Festival art making
23 September, Oberon
The Spring Festival Open Information Family Day includes art making on the Oberon Common with Gabriella Hegyes, who will talk bout Stage I of Oberon's Community Public Art Project - reproducing Oberon's Bicentennial tapestries on the rotunda floor - at 11.30am. Venue: under Visitor Information Centre opposite Common. Contact Fran Charge, Oberon Arts Council Tel 02 6336 5144.
This project was made possible with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program

Music Council Assembly
23 – 24 September, Sydney
The Music Council of Australia's 14th annual General Assembly will cover topics relevant to many different sectors in the music community including the fight for Australian music eduation; challenges and opportunities for the music industry; research: live music in licensed venues; music in Australia knowledge base and conservatoria in context. An arts policy address will be presented by both Federal Arts Minister George Brandis and Labor Shadow Arts Minister Peter Garrett (subject to special campaign contingencies). The Assembly is open to the public. At the State Library of NSW. Website www.mca.org.au

QCAN Seminar: Theatre for Living
24 September, Brisbane
Judith Wright Centre international theatre innovator, David Diamond, will present a seminar titled 'Theatre for Living: the art and science of community based dialogue' from 7 - 9pm at the Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse as part of QCAN's Artists Business Confidence Program. Diamond will weave together systems theory, Augusto Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed and Theatre For Living to outline a theory of living communites, their dysfunctions and potential for change. You will be provided with insights into how Theatre For Living works with communites in crises. Cost $20/$15. Contact Wendy Tel 07 3254 4922 Website http://www.qldcan.org.au

QCAN Workshops: Theatre for Living
24 – 26 September, Queensland
Queensland Community Arts Network is co-hosting Theatre for Living workshops with Headline Theatre, Canada. David Diamond, Headlines Theatres' artistic and managing director, located in Vancouver, Canada, will facilitate two workshops. David has directed community specific theatre projects tackling issues including racism, gender, violence, addiction, self-esteem, globalisation and language rerclamation. He is recognised internationally as using theatre to develop cross-cultural understanidng and critical thinking. His work, Theatre for Living, has evolved out of Augusto Boal's, Theatre of the Oppressed. It explores the internal voices that complicate our capacity to achieve our goals and the voices we have internalised that tell us 'we shouldn't/we must' and stop us from taking action for fear of consequences. Cost $290/ $350. Contact Xris Reardon Tel 03 9388 8014 Email theatre@vic.chariot.net.au

Painting a kimono
29 September – 1 October, Braidwood
Spend a creative long weekend in beautiful Braidwood while painting a kimono. There are many different types of kimono for married or unmarried women, for weddings and other occasions. Participants will attept a version of the basic garment using rozome techniques. At the Silken Tent, 7 Clyde Street Braidwood. Cost: $300 plus some materials. Contact Gill Burke Tel 02 4842 2579 Email gilly@braidwood.net.au

Watermark writing workshop
29 September – 1 October, Laurieton
A 2½ day writing workshop preceding the Watermark Literary Muster to be conducted by writer and inspiring teacher Graeme Kinross-Smith. Graeme is a widely published poet, short fiction writer, novelist, writing teacher and photographer. He is an Honorary Fellow in Arts at Deakin University where he teaches creative writing. Cost $245 including 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners (accommodation extra). Max 15. Contact Lyndal Coote Tel 02 6559 9953 Website www.watermarkliterarysociety.asn.au

Watermark Literary Muster
2 – 6 October, Camden Haven
Australian writers will be joined by writers from the USA and New Zealand to spend five days sharing presentations, discussions, informal gatherings and excursions with discerning readers who come from all over Australia and from overseas to attend. The 2007 Watermark Muster will explore the experience of migration and the effect that migration of all eras has had on the social and environmental fabric of Australia. Workshop details and tickets online. Tel 02 6559 9953 Email muster@watermarkliterarysociety.asn.au Website www.watermarkliterarysociety.asn.au/

MGnsw | Framing the Future: Planning for Sustainability
19 October, Armidale
A one-day workshop presented with Armidale and Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place Inc. Framing the Future introduces the importance of planning in creating sustainable museums and introduces a wide range of planning techniques and tools to help museums, keeping places, galleries and other cultural businesses survive - and thrive. The workhop is aimed at managers of cultural organisations; local government reps working with cultural organisations; people involved in regional development, local tourism and/or audience development as well as potential Standards Program participants and museology or arts administration students. More information online. Contact Kristin Anderson Tel 02 9358 1760 Email kristina@mgnsw.org.au Website www.mgnsw.org.au

A weekend of Song by the Sea
19 – 21 October, Bonny Hills
Offering a combination of good food, excellent company and the expertise of leading choral teachers, Rachel Hore and Stephen Taberner, who are well known throughout Australia for their inspiring teaching and unique blend of world music, original choral compositions and funky arrangements. Both experienced and beginning singers are welcome. Each day will be structured around singing sessions, with the opportunity for electives or time just to relax. Limited non-residential places available. Cost $100-$230. Contact Elly Franchimont Tel 02 6586 1060 Email ellyfranch@hotmail.com

The National Screenwriters' Conference
19 – 21 October, Marysville VIC
Hosted by the Australian Writers' Guild and with the generous support of Film Victoria, the 2007 National Screenwriters' Conference - Holding Onto Your Vision - provides a unique opportunity to bring together Australia's leading screenwriters and industry professionals. Covering film, television and new media, the conference is designed to foster creativity, innovation and success. Case studies and in depth conversations with local and international guests; craft sessions on writing skills and processes; managing creative partnerships; negotiating the marketplace and the 'business' of writing; pitching and micro mentoring opportunities; and discussions on industry developments and the writer's place within them. Website www.awg.com.au

Meandering about the Murray: Interpreting the landscape of the Albury region
19 – 21 October, Albury
A conference which will focus on key issues concerning the future of Australian landscapes. Prominent speakers will deal with issues ranging from water management in the Murray Darling Basin, to inland living and gardening, to the issue of invasive species and their impact on the environment. Private gardeners, writers and artists will add their experiences of gardening in the region. At the Country Comfort Hovell Tree, Albury. Tickets $10, free for ALCA and NAVA members. Contact the Garden History Society Tel 03 9650 5043 Email info@gardenhistorysociety.org.au Website www.gardenhistorysociety.org.au

Oils workshop
20 – 21 October, Inverell
John Shields is a well known oil landscape artists who in his younger years was a teacher at Graman School. John hails from Richmond in Sydney and has been successful in numerous art competitions. His previous workshops have been so successful we can honestly say he's back by popular demand. At Inverell Art Gallery. Contact Tel 02 6722 4983

Powerhouse Museum Movable Heritage Seminar
27 November, Sydney
Held as part of Powerhouse Museum's Regional Service Program, this seminar will explore issues involved with caring for collections and highlight projects underway with the movable heritage collections. Workshop sessions focussing on practical collection management techniques will be included and are intended for museum workers in regional and community museums. Contact Rebecca Pinchin, Regional Sevices Coordinator Tel 02 9217 0220 Email regionalservices@phm.gov.au Website www.powerhousemuseum.com

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Opportunities

ABC Radio | Heywire
Heywire is an opportunity for rural and regional youth to tell their story by broadcasting their insights on ABC radio: Local Radio, Triple J, Radio National, Radio Australia and ABC online. Heywire winners from around Australia also gather for a yearly forum in Canberra, a chance to come together for a life-changing event and discuss the issues facing young people. Applicants must be between the ages 16 to 22 and from Regional or Rural Australia.Tel 1800 26 26 46 Website www.abc.net.au/heywire
Closing 7 September

Universal Studios, Japan | Auditions for performing artists
10 – 11 September, Sydney
13 – 14 September, Gold Coast
17 – 18 September, Melbourne

Universal Studios Japan are casting for singers who can move, dancers who can sing, character actors, stunt actors & gymnasts. This is an opportunity for Australian performers to work at Universal Studios in Osaka Japan. Performers are sought for productions including the Broadway hit Wicked and the classic Peter Pan’s Neverland, Universal Monsters Live Rock and Roll Show™, WaterWorld™ to name a few. Auditions are by appointment only and all applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Successful applicants will be offered employment at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, commencing in early 2008. Contact Tel 03 9370 7784 Website www.universalauditions.com/japan

EOI: Public Art Commission, ACT
Expressions of interest are invited from artists to design, fabricate and install an artwork at Clare Holland House. This house is an established palliative care facility on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin in Barton ACT. A foreshore garden is being developed on the southern side of the hospice buildings by the Rotary Club of Canberra – Weston Creek and is being funded by community donations. The artwork will be located in the Foreshore Garden and will enhance the area for patients, visitors and the community. Contact Rhonda McIver Tel 02 6207 9183 Website www.basis.act.gov.au/TenderDownloads
Closing 13 September

VAN | Speed Dating for Northern Rivers artists
23 October, Murwillumbah
19 November, Grafton

Meet the gallery director of your artistic dreams! Northern Rivers artists will be given 4 minutes to present their portfolios to several gallery directors in the hope of finding a perfect 'art' match or connecting with a great promotional opportunity with the media. At each event 36 artists will have the opportunity to go 'speed dating' with six of the twelve gallery directors and/or media representatives attending. There will be plenty of time for relaxed networking over a coffee and muffins. Places strictly limited. Tickets to the event should you be selected are $35. Register your interest email to info@artsnorthernrivers.com.au including four images of your work and a bio. The email subject header should read either Tweed SpeedDating or Grafton SpeedDating. If you have a website you can simply include the link. Contact Melitta or Wendy, Arts Northern Rivers Tel 02 6628 8120.
Closing 23 September

Powerhouse Museum | Regional Services Program 2008
Organisations who are undertaking collection projects in 2008 are encouraged to submit expressions of interest for assistance from the Museum indicating their area of interest, type of activity and likely timeframe. Applications will be considered in the light of available resources, Powerhouse Museum priorities, and significance of the outcomes from the proposed projects. Application forms and details online. Contact Rebecca Pinchin, Regional Sevices Coordinator Tel 02 9217 0220 Email regionalservices@phm.gov.au Website www.powerhousemuseum.com
Closing 28 September

Powerhouse Museum | Regional Internship & Staff Exchange
Individuals are invited to apply for this program which provides training and professional development opportunities for regional museum and gallery workerd by accessing the resources of a large cultural institution. Details and applications online. Contact Rebecca Pinchin, Regional Sevices Coordinator Tel 02 9217 0220 Email regionalservices@phm.gov.au Website www.powerhousemuseum.com
Closing 28 September

FIFO
Entries are now being called for the 5th Pacific International Documentary Festival (FIFO), happening January 29 – February 3, 2008 at the Maison de la Culture of Papeete, Tahiti. Email organisation@fifotahiti.org
Website www.filmfestivaloceanie.org/articles.php
Closing 15 October

Adelaide Fringe 2008 – Call for artists
Adelaide Fringe 2008 is open for business and the call has gone out for all artists to register to participate in the largest fringe festival in the southern hemisphere. Artists can register their events online and become part of fringe history. Each year over 2,200 artists bring nearly 500 events of every artform imaginable to Adelaide for the Fringe. Anyone from any where can register using the simple online registration system. Email buzz@adelaidefringe.com.au Website www.adelaidefringe.com.au
Closing 19 October

Australian Children's Television Foundation | Feature Film Initiative
The ACTF is offering selected creative teams a development funding package for up to four local features aimed at children between 6 and 13. Projects should have a production budget that is capable of being financed largely out of Australia. Funding is to cover development costs up to delivery of a second draft script. It is expected that the vast majority of funds will be spent directly on the development of the film (ie., writer’s fees, script editor’s fees, etc). Funds cannot be spent on purchasing the right to use existing works (eg.,. book options). Only creative teams, consisting of at least a producer and writer, may apply. Website www.actf.com.au
Closing 29 October

SunScreen Independent Music Video Competition
Australia's only independent music video competition. SunScreen aims to give artists and directors a chance to showcase their music videos without the competition of big budget videos from the major labels. Now into its third year, SunScreen has once again teamed up with Festival of the Sun which shares the same attitude of independence and supporting Australian talent. The final will take place at Festival of the Sun on 14 & 15 December where the 16 finalists videos will be showcased and subject to another audience vote. The final winner will be determined by the highest percentage of SMS votes by the Festival of the Sun audience and the winning director will receive $10,000 worth of Industry prizes geared towards a new video. Contact Linzi Steele Mob 0405 479 199 Email linzi@fotsun.com Website www.sunscreen.net.au
Closing 14 November

NSW FTO | Aurora
The NSW Film and Television Office is looking for well developed feature scripts, written in any genre for its Aurora Script Workshop. Projects must have a director and producer attached. Guidelines and application forms will be available early October from the FTO website. Contact Harriet McKern, Coordinator Aurora Tel 02 9264 6400 Email mckernh@fto.nsw.gov.au Website www.fto.nsw.gov.au
Closing 26 November

Studio Furniture 2008
26 January 2008, Bungendore
Australian furniture designers/makers are invited to be part of this showcase event taking place on 26 January 2008 in Bungendore. Selected works will form part of a touring exhibition supported by Craft Australia. There are also cash awards totalling $10,000. The design and finish should communicate a studio furniture attitude - that is, an emphasis on individually designed and made work. The piece should show an appropriate use of hand work so as to distinguish it from mass-produced manufacture. Bungendore Wood Works Gallery. Website www.bwoodworks.com.au/gallery-ie.html
Closing 28 November

Wingham roundabout sculpture commission
NSW sculptors are invited to submit scale drawings or digital images plus cost estimates for a sculpture for a new roundabout in the CBD of Wingham. The designs will be presented to a panel of judges and up to six will be selected. Selected sculptors will receive $500 each to prepare high quality maquettes of their sculptures and the judge will select one winning maquette. That sculptor will be offered a commission of up to $30, 000 to create the full scale sculpture (subject to funding). Sculptors are asked to respond to an aspect of Wingham. It can be natural, social or historical. Information and entry forms online. Website www.manninghistorical.org or www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au
Closing 30 November

The cottage accommodationCorner Country Artist-in-Residence Program
October 2007 – March 2008
A new artists residency in the village of Milparinka, around 300km north of Broken Hill, close to the Queensland border. The program offers free accommodation for one to four weeks during the 'off-season' for tourists in exchange for plant-watering and some artistic outcomes to be negotiated. Set in stunning landscape, the weather at this time will be hot and dry (up to 50 degrees). Milparinka has one pub, a population of 10 ... and it's very, very quiet. The artist's accommodation is a fully-contained 2 room stone cottage located in the heritage precinct. Painters, writers, film/video artists all welcome. Contact James Giddey, RADO, West Darling Arts Mob 0428 881 525 Email jgiddey@bigpond.net.au Website www.outbacknsw.com.au
Ongoing

Lost art of the 1970s – Call for materials for exhibition
Do you have sheets decorated in Hobbytex lurking in your linen cupboard? A macrame owl in the shed? Or maybe a bit of string art gathering dust? If you still have craft items made during the 1970s, three Bathurst artists would love to use it in a show in the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery early next year. Tracy Sorensen is looking for people willing to be interviewed for her video installation. Contact Tracy Sorensen Tel 02 6331 7332.
Ongoing

Screenwriting mentorships
Acclaimed scree