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Highlight events

Fling Physical Theatre | Who will come to the Rescue?
4 – 6 October, Parramatta
8 – 9 October, Wollongong
A family show that brings comic book heroes alive in a thought-provoking action packed story about good versus evil. Our heroes and anti-heroes burst forward with Buster Keaton type antics as they try to grapple with individual strengths and character, love and hurt, good and evil. Composer Candy McVeity binds the super heroes' performances together with super glue. Kiri Morcombe’s wonderful Lycra costumes whizz through a surreal space lit by Gerry Corocoran and help build the atmosphere into an action packed finale. The production is framed within a projected world of lively graphic animation and colourful, filmed highlights; and an infectious energy spreads from these country kids as they fling onto the stage to create some special magic in this show. Check websites for session times and bookings.
Riverside Theatre Parramatta Tel 02 8839 3399 Website www.riversideparramatta.com.au
Merrigong Theatre Tel 02 4226 3366 Website www.ipac.org.au/eventdetails.aspx?eid=213

Wollumbin Dreaming Festival
5 – 7 October, Wollumbin
A festival that focuses on Indigenous recognition and reconciliation, environmental awareness, healing and sustainable lifestyles; with three full days of traditional dance, stalls, bands, workshops and a children's space. There will be a corroboree and senior Bundjalung Elders speaking on traditional values and culture, the stolen generations and the impacts of white colonisation on their people and country. The festival has a dual purpose in creating community awareness of the natural history that is Wollumbin (Mount Warning) and its spiritual links to the Bundjalung people as well as to create an environment where our nation can continue with the Reconciliation process. There are dance workshops for all participants and special workshops for Bundjalung dance groups. At Tyalgum Showground. Bring camping equipment and wet weather gear. Contact Wollumbin Dreaming Tel 02 6679 3813 Website www.wollumbindreaming.org

Aquasculpture
10 October – 11 November, Port Macquarie Hastings
Port Macquarie’s biennial outdoor sculpture exhibition is held every two years in conjunction with National Water Week. Aquasculpture is a community celebration of the arts, the environment and community identity that transforms the town green into an outdoor gallery with the beautiful Hastings River foreshores providing the perfect backdrop for thew outdoor sculpture exhibition. Many of the works created thought provoking reminders of how we all depend upon water for our very existence and the need for us to conserve our water resources into the future. Free environmental sculpture workshops, an exhibition at Port Macquarie Hastings Council and an artists' symposium ('Confluence') with guest speakers & professional workshops for artists and arts workers. Details for all events online. Tel 02 6581 8658 Email wendy.hee@pmhc.nsw.gov.au Website www.aquasculpture.com.au

Spirit of the Land
10 – 14 October, Lockhart
A t raditional indigenous smoking ceremony, art exhibits, picnic races, didgeridoo performance, celebrities, arts trail, sculptures, a national design competition, live music heritage and garden trails, winery walkabouts, hot air ballooning, markets, bush tucker and more…. ‘Spirit of the Land’ has it all! This October, Lockhart, 'The Verandah Town,' will explode into celebration like never experienced before. A community who has suffered badly from the drought has banded together to create a four-day festival to showcase the true ‘Spirit of the Land’. Organisers expect no less the 2,000 people will join the celebration with an influx of another 5,000 on the day of the annual picnic races. Because of the recent equine flu outbreak, the picnic races will be run with other animals – sheep, cows and camels have been mentioned! Media representatives and guests from across the globe have already booked their tickets for this great Aussie celebration. Details online. Website www.spiritofthelandlockhart.com.au

Big hART: Griffith turns to GOLD
18 October – 4 November, Griffith
National arts and social change company, Big hART has been working with young people in Griffith on project GOLD; exploring the themes of water, drought and the impact of environmental issues on farming communities in Boree Creek, Condobolin, Rand and the Hume Weir. The Gold crew, made up of young people and professional filmmakers, photographers, web-designers and installation artists, will be relocating GOLD headquarters to the Griffith Regional Art Gallery from the this month for a work in progress exhibition and GOLD LAB. The GOLD LAB will be an interactive space where work from the project can be viewed whilst the creation of new work continues. Contact Holly Rankin-Smith Tel 02 6964 6645 Email this_is_holly@hotmail.com

Flametree Festival
13 – 14 October, Bundanon
Award-winning Flametree Productions return to Bundanon with one of the world’s hottest jazz musicians, Latin grooves, junk percussion and an exquisite chamber orchestra. Situated on the awe-inspiring properties of Arthur and Yvonne Boyd’s gift to the nation, Bundanon NSW, Saturday’s concert at the Riversdale property includes Up Close and Chamberfied, followed by the explosive Latin display from Mucho Mambo and ends with a swooning performance from The Flametree Festival Orchestra and Claire Edwards. Sunday’s concert, at the Bundanon homestead property, presents Ensemble Offspring lead by Claire Edwardes, featuring an intriguing array of ‘junk percussion’ instruments. James Morrison provides a brilliant crescendo to the weekend. Tickets: $40 per concert. Day passes & concessions available from $25 - $360 (Family Pass). City Recital Hall Box Office Tel 1300 797 118 Website www.cityrecitalhall.com www.flametreeproductions.com.au

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Regional Arts NSW News

RANSW and partners win ARC funding for regional arts & culture study
Regional Arts NSW is a partner with the University of Technology, Sydney, the University of Wollongong, the University of New England and 10 other community partners in a successful Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkages Project announced by the Federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP on 24 September. The $2.5 million project, 'Cultural Asset Mapping for Planning and Development in Regional Australia', is a five year undertaking which will run from 2008 to 2012.
Full story on the Regional Arts NSW website here

Country Energy and Regional Arts NSW present new award for young artists
Country Energy and the Regional Arts NSW Foundation will award a Youth Encouragement Award as part of the $35,000 Country Energy Art Prize for Landscape Painting for the first time this year. The new award is designed to support and promote the work of emerging young artists from regional New South Wales. The prize of $2,000 will be presented to an artist aged between 16 and 25 years who has entered the 2007 Country Energy Art Prize for Landscape Painting. The winner will be selected from the 42 exhibiting finalists and will be announced, along with the overall winner of the Prize, at the Western Plains Cultural Centre on 11 October.
***STOP PRESS***
This Award now announced here

'Quick' funding for ten new regional arts projects
Regional Arts NSW has announced ten new projects funded in the July to September quarter of the Quick Response Grants program. Quick Response Grants are funded under the Australian Government's Regional Arts Fund. They offer regional artists the opportunity to take up professional development opportunities at short notice. The successful applicants from this quarter are: Sarah Last (Eastern Riverina), Theatre Onset (South East), Chrisjohn Hancock (Southern Tablelands); West Darling Arts (West Darling); Booranga Writers Centre (Eastern Riverina), Shane Murphy (Northern Rivers); Nambucca Valley Neighbourhood Centre (Mid North Coast); Broken Hill Art Exchange (West Darling); Anthony Allison (Mid North Coast) and Duke Albada (Northern Rivers). Regional Arts NSW congratulates all the recipients. The Quick Response Grants Program fourth quarter opens for applications on 1 October.
Full story including project descriptions on the Regional Arts NSW website here

New staff to update cultural directory for Orana
The Orana Arts Cultural Directory lists all the key people and businesses who provide art and cultural services in the Dubbo, Gilgandra, Narromine, and Warrumbungle regions. The directory has proven essential to creating communication networks between people around the region and has been a core project of Orana Arts for the past three years. This year Penny Hassall joins the team at Orana Arts to help collate the 2008 edition of the directory, which will include images of artists ' works and more colour and detail. In addition, all listings will have the opportunity to be included on the Regional Arts NSW state-wide database, currently in development. Contact the RADO Merryn Spencer Tel 02 6817 8704 Email mspencer@oranaarts.com

Arts Northern Rivers appoints Museums Development Officer
Joan Kelly has been appointed Regional Museums Development Officer at Arts Northern Rivers. The position has been made possible with grants from Museums & Galleries NSW and the National Library Australia. Prior to joining Arts Northern Rivers, Joan spend two years managing the Norfolk Island Museum collection as well as acting as the museum's Director. Joan's new role will involve extensive consultation with museums in the Northenr Rivers, as well as developing museum best practice with the sector. Joan will be facilitating training workshops in Signficance Assessment, Conservation and Grant Funding Applications for collection management as well as undertaking assessments on a number of collections in the Northern Rivers. Contact Joan Tel 02 6628 8120 Email info@artsnorthernrivers.com

Creative Volunteering is back for 2007/08
A new round of Creative Volunteering workshops kicks off this month with 'Work with Collections' in Queanbeyan on 13 October (see Seminars below) and between now and June 2008, another 22 workshops will be delivered throughout regional New South Wales. There are eight modules: Carry out Business Planning, Develop Funds and Resources, Undertake Marketing, Work with Collections, Plan & Program Events, Network Within Communities, Cultivate Productive Relationships and Contribute to Effective Organisation Governance. Workshops are nationally accredited and are delivered in partnership with CCDNSW. The new schedule will be up and running soon, so keep an eye on our website and future e-bulletins for details. Contact Kate Reynolds 02 9270 2509 Email admin@regionalartsnsw.com.au Website www.regionalartsnsw.com.au/projects/c-vol/c-vol.html

Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin survey
Regional Arts NSW is evaluating the e-Bulletin. We want to know what you think and how we can improve it. We'd love it if you could take a minute (well, about ten minutes) to complete our short online survey here. Thanks in advance for your help!
Click here to complete the survey.

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Other News

Federal Labor Arts Policy promises support for regional arts
A Rudd Labor Government will work with Regional Arts Australia and examine ways to develop the arts in regional and remote areas, says the Federal Labor arts policy, 'New Directions for the Arts,' released on 14 September. The policy also states the regional touring arts programs - Playing Australia, Visions Australia, Festivals Australia and the Contemporary Music Touring progarm - will form a core component of Labor's approach to the arts. At the launch, the Shadow spokesman for the Arts, Peter Garrett, promised that a Rudd Government would continue a Labor tradition of strong support for the arts, adding, "it's our contention that for eleven years the arts have existed more on the margins than they have in the centre of our political and social and cultural engagement." Highlights of the policy include the introduction of a resale royalty scheme for visual artists; increased transparency of board appointments to the Australia Council; the removal of the sedition clause from the counter-terrorism laws and an ArtStart program to assist artists on welfare to use their skills to generate income.
Full statement and policy available on the ALP's website here

NSW Cultural Grants Program under review
The Minister for the Arts, Frank Sartor, has announced a review of the State's cultural grants program, to begin immediately. The review, to be conducted by the Chair of the NSW Heritage Council, Michael Collins, and the Chair of the Sydney Writers Festival, Sandra Yates, will examine a range of issues including local and national support for the arts and identify opportunities to make the cultural grants program more strategic. It will also look for ways to increase the number of joint programs between the arts, heritage and other programs. Arts NSW is supporting the review, which will consult broadly with stakeholders and peak bodies including Regional Arts NSW, Museums & Galleries NSW and the Local Government and Shires Associations. A report is expected to be submitted by the end of the year. Submissions can be made to the review until 19 October 2007, addressed to the NSW Cultural Grants Program Review, c/o Arts NSW, PO Box A226, Sydney South, NSW, 1235. Regional stakeholders are asked to forward a copy of their submission to Regional Arts NSW.
Full story and Terms of Reference on the Arts NSW website here [PDF]
Closing 19 October

Crowd at opening of major new arts centre in Cootamundra
There was large crowd including State and Federal MPs at the Opening by the Director-General of the Department of Arts, Sport & Recreation, Mr Robert Adby, of the Cootamundra Arts Centre on Friday 14 September. The new centre is the result of a unique community initiative to transform a once derelict but historically significant building complex into an 'artists' playing field' for the education, exhibition, production and performance of arts related activities. The project has been going for three and half years and the crowd at the Opening attested to the both the significance of and need for the Centre. The Federal Member for the Riverina, Kay Hull, and the State Member for Burrinjuck, Katrina Hodgkinson, were in attendance, as were the Cootamundra Mayor, Paul Braybrooks, the CEO of Regional Arts NSW, Elizabeth Rogers, Melissa Delaney and Kate Christie from the Eastern Riverina Arts Program, and a large contingent from the local community. "If you wish to see a truly remarkable community project visit Cootamundra and enjoy the true meaning of a positive viable 'project in progress, totally community driven and executed, " said Isabel Scott, Director of the Centre. Alternatively, you can watch the video made on the day.
Full story & link to video on the Regional Arts NSW website here

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Camden Haven Music Festival wins Classical Music Award
The 2006 Camden Haven Music Festival has won the 2007 Classical Music Award for Outstanding Contribution to Australian Music in a Regional Area. The Classical Music Awards, which celebrate the achievements of the Australian contemporary classical music community, were presented by APRA and The Australian Music Centre in Sydney on 12 September. The Camden Haven Music Festival, which has been held on the Mid North Coast since 1996, was unanimously chosen by the judges for its "extraordinary program of artists from across the spectrum of Australian musical life." Run by a committee of volunteers, and directed by Trish O’Brien, the 2006 festival presented a varied program of jazz, classical and alternative styles of music in an event that "would more than rival any metropolitan equivalent," as one of the panellists said. Other award winners on the night included Belinda Webster, for Distinguished Services to Australian Music; Roger Smalley, for Best Composition by an Australian Composer and the Aurora Festival of New Music.
More information about the Classical Music Awards on the APRA website here

BHP Billiton and Musica Viva win AbaF NSW Regional Award
BHP Billiton and Musica Viva Australia have won the 2007 AbaF QantasLink Regional Award for NSW, announced in Sydney on 11 September. BHP Billiton has supported Musica Viva’s CountryWide programs over twenty two years, to the tune of $1.4 million. Each year through the program, Musica Viva arranges around 138 concerts in 57 regional communities, including some very isolated, reaching more than 22,000 people with the highest quality live music. Additional programs incorporate residencies, workshops and family concerts to stimulate cultural activity in regional areas. The partnership assists BHP Billiton to engage with its staff and clients in these regional areas.
More information on the AbaF website here

Regional NSW artists win 2007 AWGIE Awards
The 40th Annual Australian Writers’ Guild AWGIE Awards took place on Friday 31 August in Sydney where some of Australia’s most well known and up-and-coming scriptwriters and playwrights were awarded AWGIE Awards across 21 categories in film, TV and theatre. Two regional NSW artists were among the winners. Albury Wodonga's Campion Decent received the Community and Youth Theatre award for his stunning verbatim-theatre piece, Embers and Janis Balodis was the winner of the Music Theatre award for his play, Electric Lenin, which was first produced to great acclaim by NORPA last year. Keith Thompson, writer of Clubland, walked away with the 2007 Major AWGIE Award for Outstanding Australian Script of the Year and both Clubland and Tony Ayres' The Home Song Stories were awarded the Feature Film Original award.
Full story on the AWG website here

Dungog is first AFC-supported rural film festival
The Dungog Film Festival has been awarded a major grant from the nation's primary film funding body, the Australian Film Commission (AFC), making it the first location based rural film event ever to have the AFC as a government partner. The grant was awarded as part of the AFC's Industry Cultural and Development Program, which is dedicated to promoting and supporting film events that reach audiences on a national level. The Dungog Film Festival is an annual, four-day, noncompetitive film festival that showcases exclusively Australian content; bringing big names and cutting edge cinema to the small town of Dungog every May.
More information on the Dungog Film Festival website here

Regional NSW artists representing Australia in China
Shoalhaven artist Anna Glynn has been chosen to represent Australia in an international modern art exhibition at the prestigious Art Museum of Zhu Qi Zhan in Shanghai from 1 to 30 November this year. The Zhu Qizhan Art Museum is one of the major public museums in Shanghai and serves as a platform for both traditional and contemporary art. Glynn has also just been awarded an Australia China Council artist's residency in LiaoNong Province in China next year where she will be collaborating with Chinese artist , Wu GuoWei , also a regional artist, on a project called 'Parallel Dreams'. The two artists are currently planning a series of exhibitions and cultural exchanges between China and Australia for 2008 / 2009. Contact Anna Glynn Tel 02 4448 6164 Email anna@annaglynn.com Website www.annaglynn.com
Earlier this year, Mudgee region artists Chester Nealie (woodfire potter), Jan Irvine-Nealie (textile artist) and Janet Mansfield (ceramics) spent five weeks in China working at the Fuping Tile Factory with other Australian potters as artists-in-residence in the lead up to the opening of the Australasian Ceramics Museum at Fuping, which now accommodates an impressive exhibition by thirteen Australian and six New Zealand artists.

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Anthony Duval’s landslide win in Grafton
The National Parks & Wildlife Service's Northern Rivers Region Aboriginal Art Award at the Grafton Regional Gallery was an outstanding success. Hundreds of people visitors voted in the SCU Gnidi People’s Choice Award and the winner is local Grafton Artist Anthony Duval with his painting Bad Luck / Death Bird. Anthony joins the winners from the other three categories, Karla Dickens with her painting Then, Now, When in the open category and Garth Lena in the 3D category with his timber sculpture Mother and Sisters. More of Anthony’s work can see more at the Yulgilbar Indigenous Art Prize opening at Grafton Regional Gallery on 31 October . Contact Public Programs Officer, Rose Marin Tel 02 6642 3177.

The end of an era at Thursday Plantation Sculpture Show
As things are gearing up to get ready for the 12th Thursday Plantation East Coast Sculpture Show, it has been announced that as a consequence of the change of ownership of TP Health Ltd, this exhibition will be the last of the annual sculpture shows at Thursday Plantation in Ballina. The show’s inaugural curator, Priya Woolston, is currently exploring ways in which the East Coast Sculpture Show can find a new home and a new major sponsor, so watch for further announcements. In the meantime, she says, ‘If you have ever visited and loved the show at Thursday Plantation, don’t miss the opportunity to come this year and see the fine new works set among the lovely rainforest gardens.’ Until 31 January at the Thursday Plantation, 1km north of the Ballina/Byron airport turnoff. Contact Priya Woolston Tel 02 6684 0076

Bea Ballangarry wins Grace Roberts Award
The 2007 Grace Roberts Community Development Award has been presented to Bea Ballangarry for her service to the community through improving social justice, economic advancement and education for Indigenous people. The award was announced by Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades, at the 2007 Local Government Aboriginal Network Conference dinner at Opal Cove Resort on 6 September.
Full story on the Coffs Harbour Council website here

The Wilcannia renaissance continues
Paakantji artist Pam Bugmy will be artist-in-residence Wilcannia Arts Centre for two weeks this month, in the second of a series of three residencies to be held at the new centre this year under a three year program made possible with a grant from the Australian Government's Regional Arts Fund. Bugmy will be working on a series of door murals for Elders' homes using semi-traditional Paakantji style and imagery, representing the individuals and families involved. Community members are invited to visit and make work alongside the artist, to get an insight into professional artistic practice and broaden and share skills. The residency follows the first successful event in April this year: artist Rick Ball had over 175 visits during his 2-week long painting and drawing stint at the Centre, with participants ranging from local artists, adult residents and young people to travellers. Pam Bugmy starts on 29 September and will continue work until 14 October 2007. Contact Paul Brown, Wilcannia Arts Tel 08 80915802 or Project Officer, Sue Reynolds Mob 0429 985 703.

Indent Partnership Grants for 2008 now open
Indent's $110,000 Partnership Grants Program for all-ages music events in NSW is now open . Young event promoters, existing Indent event teams and emerging bands across NSW are encouraged to apply for funding for events taking place in 2008. The Partnership Grants have specifically been developed for young people looking to kick-start or reinvigorate all-ages music events across NSW - to assist young event promoters and emerging artists by offering the support, resources and materials required to get gigs happening in their area. Full details on the website. For more information on submitting an application or to discuss your event ideas please contact Richard Tamplenizza, Indent Partnership Grants Manager Tel 02 9699 9706 Email richie@musicnsw.com Website www.indent.net.au
Closing 31 October

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Tamworth Festival tickets on sale, online, early
Tickets for a number of major events during the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January will go on sale on the Internet on 1 October. Tourism Tamworth says the early release of tickets on-line follows the success of internet pre-sales for major concerts last year. Tickets will go on sale at 9am 1 October via the website and will remain available solely on-line until Thursday 1 November when phone and counter sales will open. 9,500 tickets for last year's event were purchased on-line around this time in 2006..
Tourism Tamworth website here

Comments sought for Regional Communities Consultative Council
NSW Government established the Regional Communities Consultative Council (RCCC) in 1996 to make sure that the government is informed on the issues and concerns facing country people in NSW. The Local Government and Shires Associations, which are represented on the RCCC, have invited Local Government representatives to provide comment on issues affecting people in regional and rural NSW.
Full story in Item 4 of the LGSA Newsletter here [PDF]

Australia’s first Second Life artists residency recipients announced
The Australia Council for the Arts has announced the recipients of its $20,000 artist residency in the 3-D online virtual world of Second Life. Visual artist Christopher Dodds, musician/3-D real-time artist Adam Nash and writer Justin Clemens will collaborate to develop an inter-disciplinary artwork in Second Life, which explores the possibilities of literary, music/sound art and real-time 3-D arts practices within the virtual world. "Christopher, Adam and Justin’s project will challenge the relationship between actual and virtual existences and build the sophistication of art in virtual worlds, helping to position Australia as a leader in the international media arts field.’ OzCo CEO, Kathy Keele, said.

Seven new national tours under Contemporary Music Touring Program
The Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator George Brandis has announced grants of more than $67,000 to support seven national tours by contemporary musicians from NSW and Victoria under the Australian Government’s Contemporary Music Touring Program. The program includes a total of 151 performances in regional venues in all States. The May 2006 Federal Budget provided for a second $1m allocation to the Contemporary Music Touring Program for the four years starting from 2006-07. The aim of the program is to support touring opportunities for Australian musicians, and increase audience access to live Australian contemporary music, particularly in regional and remote Australia.
Full story and link to successful applicants on the Minister's website here

Playing Australia supports another 25 national tours
The Federal Minister for Arts and Sport, Senator George Brandis, has announced Playing Australia funding of over $3.25 million for 25 performing arts tours to entertain audiences across Australia in 2008. The grants include:
$443 314 for the Bell Shakespeare Company, to tour As You Like It to 35 venues in NSW, VIC, TAS, ACT and WA;
$225 374 for Co-Opera to tour La Traviata to 42 venues in VIC, ACT, NSW, SA, NT and WA;
$115 248 for Critical Stages to tour the award winning production of The Pitch by Who’s Who Productions to 39 venues in NSW, TAS, VIC, WA, and QLD;
$276 855 for Arts on Tour to tour True Stories by Bangarra Dance Theatre to nine venues in SA, NT and QLD and
$59 150 for the Queensland Arts Council to tour One Man Percussion Orchestra by Grant Collins to 14 venues in NSW, QLD, NT and WA.
Full story and link to successful applicants on the Minister's website here

Cultural funding by government up: ABS
More than $5.4 billion was spent by the public sector in Australia on cultural activities in 2005-06, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The report says that governments in Australia gave the largest proportion of their total cultural funding to broadcasting and film ($1.2 billion) in 2005-06, followed by nature parks and reserves ($1.1 billion), libraries and archives ($576 million) and other museums ($506 million). Federal spending was up by 7%, State and Territory governments spending was up 11% while the local government sector's spend was up 8% on last year. Local government accounted for 18% of the total cultural spending, according to the report.
Full story on the Creative Economy website here

Film laws introduce new era for Australian film
The Australian Parliament has passed legislation establishing an Australian Screen Production Incentive, providing more than $280 million over the next four years in generous incentives for Australian film and television productions and for offshore productions to locate to Australia.
Full media release on the Federal Minister for the Arts website here

Australian censorship laws tightened
New, tighter classification rules for publications, films and computer games are before Parliament, with the Government saying increased censorship is needed to counter terrorism. Federal Labor has given its broad support, but the Australian Press Council says the new laws are dangerous.
Full story on the Australian Government's Cultural & Recreational Portal here

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New Resources

Singing the Land: The Power of Performance in Aboriginal Life
Jill Stubington's important study of the culture of music and dance in Aboriginal life, and a tribute to the pioneer musicologists with whom she worked, especially the eminent Alice Moyle, and to those musicians and elders who taught her the multiple meanings behind the traditions of ceremony and the pleasures of making music. In its engaging 320 pages it outlines the history of diverse musical practices of different regions, and provides translations, listening guides to currently available CDs, and 40 pages of notation. Jill Stubington's aim in this is to provide a way for young Aboriginals to recapture their traditional music and a way for white listeners to find a way to listen.
Available from Currency House Tel 02 9319 4953 Website www.currencyhouse.org.au

Cross-Racial Casting: Changing the Face of Australia
Are our theatre, film and television productions implicitly racist? So claims Lee Lewis, theatre director and author of Platform Papers 13, Cross-Racial Casting: Changing the Face of Australia. 'When I returned to Sydney in 2001' writes Lee Lewis, 'I had grown accustomed to New York's mixed-race casts and was astonished that the ethnic diversity so apparent on our streets was not replicated on Sydney's stages.' Australian main stages are failing to engage with the world, or offer a vision of the future that is not white-dominated, she argues. Lewis examines casting practices here and overseas and, while giving credit to the exceptions, demands for Australia a comprehensive policy of diversity.
Available from Currency House Tel 02 9319 6423 Website www.currencyhouse.org.au

Key findings of the Creative Industries National Mapping Project
The creative workforce represents 5.4 per cent of total employment, according to this summary of some of the key findings of the Creative Industries National Mapping Project produced by the ARC Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries and Innovation. The project has developed new definitions and methodologies for revealing the employment and business characteristics of the creative industries.
Summary sheets available on the ARC website here

Cowboys in Cyberspace
'Australia's award-winning internet country music resource', owned and operated by musical director and recording artist, Bob Howe, has recently been upgraded. Offering a brand new layout, improved interactive features and a new easy-to-remember address, country music fans should check it out. Includes columns and reviews, video podcasts, comments pages, an Australian gig guide links and photos.
Website www.cowboysincyberspace.com

Technology Bytes
The Sydney Arts Management Advisory Group (SAMAG) recently presented a seminar with some great, user-friendly pointers for those who may find some technical challenges considering their IT requirements. Presented by Stuart Wilkins, who runs an IT consultancy company for small to medium-sized companies, the workshop untangles computer jargon and covers topics such as whether to buy or rent computers; laptop vs desktop; and information on warranties, internet service providers, software and security. A summary of the workshop is now available in PDF from the SAMAG website.
Download the summary here [PDF]

Di.o.rama – Constructing a Virtual Memory
A new hypermedia project by Dennis Kratz is featured in this year's ElectroOnline, the online gallery of electronic, internet art produced for Newcastle's Electrofringe Festival. Titled Di.o.rama - Constructing a Virtual Memory, the project uses language as an entry point for exploring historical memory. Developed through a computer mediated collaboration that included various experimental writing processes, such as email, blogging and posts to various websites, the work extends on concerns explored by the artists during a seven week residency in Hill End. As the title suggests, Di.o.rama - Constructing a Virtual Memory, uses the concept of the diorama as a framework. When those engaging with the project click on different parts of each diorama, they are led to a new part of the work, where another section of the story is revealed.
Blog www.denniskratz.com/storyblog Website www.diorama.denniskratz.com

Metro Screen's portable content
Metro Screen is offering viewers the chance to see some films specifically made for wireless viewing from its website. A selection of works from Metro Screen’s Portable Content workshops over the past years is available now for download and transfer to mobile phone for viewing.
Available on the MetroScreen website here

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Project Reports

ArtStart showcased at youth Catapult Festival
September 2007, Bathurst
ArtStart projects the Central West were showcased at the Catapult Festival of youth circus and physical theatre in Bathurst last month. ArtStart participants from Cowra, Condobolin and Bathurst took part in additional workshops and gave a public performance during the festival. ArtStart is a program of TAFE NSW aimed at engaging young people in the arts with a view to alternative career and study choices. Arts OutWest coordinated funding for projects in 11 local government areas in central NSW. Activities have included hip hop workshops in Orange and Oberon, an extensive dance project in Cowra, performance workshops in Lachlan region and Bathurst and a mixture of other art forms explored in centres including Lithgow and Wellington. The remaining workshops will roll out this coming school holidays.
Contact Kylie Shead at Arts OutWest Tel 02 6338 4657 Website www.artsoutwest.org.au/projects/index.html

The Macquarie Philharmonic Orchestra in concert
September 2007, Dubbo
Australia’s Inland Symphony Orchestra played at the Western Plains Zoo on a cool September evening recently as part of the zoo’s 30 year celebrations. The program included animal inspired musical pieces Carnival of the Animals by Saint-Saen, The Lion King by Hans Zimmer, and The Kookaburra who Stole the Moon by Peter Winkler. "Special mention must be made to Eric Ellis (pictured, with Peter Winkler), who performed the characters in The Kookaburra Who Stole the Moon – what a well told and musically animated story that was! Also Leonard Camplin the conductor was excellent – a very committed and inspiring musician. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this great orchestra to regional centres," – Merryn Spencer, Acting RADO, Orana Arts.

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What's On

Ashplatter CD Launch
29 September, Dubbo
Local band Ashplatter launch their debut album Overdue at The Pastoral Hotel. Ashplatter has been playing together for around three years now and was originally formed by two good friends Dallas Keene and Stu Moppet, who came second in the first ever Triple J unearthed competition back in the early 90’s with their band Dial. Frontman Dallas describes the band's music as Rock/Funk and says of their debut album “Overdue is the type of album that makes you wanna listen to it again and again. There are so many changes and different style of music you find ya self going back for another listen.”

37th Annual Uranquinty Folk Festival
Until 1 October, Wagga Wagga
Wagga Wagga Folk Society presents concerts, dances, workshops, poets breakfasts, pub & campfire sessions and a kids festival.. Quinty is a small folk festival with a friendly family atmosphere, and one of the oldest folk festivals in Australia. Traditional and contemporary folk, blues, bush and rock'n'roll dances. Tickets $45/$40/$30/$12. Children, Secondary Students, Camping, Breakfast and Hot Showers Free. Contact Alan Tel 02 6029 2156 Email ajhunter@hotkey.net.au Website www.uranquintyfolk.com

Slowly Disappearing Darling
Until 14 October, Broken Hill
An exhibition of animation and works on paper by Martin King, inspired by his recent artist-in-residency at Broken Hill in July 2007. King is nationally renowned for his unique interpretation of the Australian landscape which is informed predominately by Australia's spectacular arid interior. Slowly Disappearing Darling continues the artist's exploration of the complex relationships between us and the natural world. Contact Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery. Tel 08 8088 6897 Email artgallery@brokenhill.nsw.gov.au

Australia's Muslim Cameleers
Until 21 October, Broken Hill
Broken Hill Regional Gallery presents Australia's Muslim Cameleers: Pioneers of the Inland 1860 - 1930s. A touring exhibition developed by the South Australian Museum. 404-408 Argent St, Broken Hill 2880. Tel 02 08 8088 6897

TEXTile: Reading the Cloth
Until 20 October, Cowra
Weaving and Handmade Textiles by Jane Davidson. Two years in the making, the show has been an unusual collaboration with the anonymous weavers of Asian textiles from the personal collection of Cheryl Fyre of Fyre Gallery in Braidwood. At Cowra Art Gallery, 77 Darling Street Cowra. Tel 02 6340 2190

Meg Buchanan: the last 5 years
Until 21 October, Cowra
Well-known Canberra-based artist Meg Buchanan uses a range of media to explore defined space and the figurative elements that dwell within it. In her most recent work, the object of identity has shifted from the abstracted figure to the landscape. Winner of the 2005 Calleen Acquisiton Prize. At Cowra Art Gallery Tel 02 6340 2190 Website  www.cowraartgallery.com.au

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Godwin Bradbeer: The Metaphysical Body 1970 – 2005
Until 28 October, Grafton
An exhibition which surveys thirty five years of one of Australia’s most celebrated draftsmen, taking us from Bradbeer’s early photographic self-portraiture through key works in the artist’s career. In the monumental, cathedral-like scale of Bradbeer’s drawings viewers are confronted with how it is we are conceived, encapsulated, born, sexed and nurtured. Bradbeer’s early experimentation with photography led to his signature 'x-ray vision', where the internal skeletal structure of the figure visible through the outer shell of the human form. Another drawing technique that emerged from photography is his use of solarisation. Here Bradbeer swaps the darkness and shadows on the body for light or white. Grafton Regional Gallery, 158 Fitzroy St Grafton Tel 02 6642 317 Website www.graftongallery.nsw.gov.au

Peter Wilson: Mosses & Lichens, Plus 30 Years On
Until 29 October, Gulgong
Regional audiences are in for a treat this spring with Peter Wilson's solo ceramics exhibition Mosses & Lichens and Plus 30 Years On presented at Cudgegong Gallery. The exhibition is in two parts - the first element reflecting the artist's current practice, the second a retrospective scanning thirty years of work. Wilson is currently completing a commission for a Charles Sturt University Foundation in conjunction with the Bathurst Teachers' College alumni. At Cudgegong Gallery, 102 Herbert Street Gulgong Tel 02 6374 1630

Landmarks by Ros Auld
Until 5 November, Tanja
Ros Auld studied painting and ceramics at the National Art School in Sydney and has taught visual arts and ceramics at both secondary and tertiary level. She has exhibited widely and her work is represented in many galleries and private collections in Australia and overseas. Her recent work has a bold individuality, inspired by the forms, colours and textures of the Australian landscape and references to tribal artefacts. The coil-built stoneware forms are symmetrical, strong and robust, evoking broad vistas or minute details of the land. Exhibition at Narek Galleries, Old Tanja Church, 1140 Tathra-Bermagui Rd, Tanja. Tel 02 6494 0112 Email info@nerakgalleries.com Website www.nerakgalleries.com

Drugs: A Social History
Until 25 November, Wagga Wagga
A travelling exhibition from Sydney's Justice and Police Museum which examines Australia's relationship with drugs, as well as challenging existing views about drugs. The exhibition uses images, objects and film to highlight key episodes in Australia's drug-taking history: from sly grog shops to safe injecting rooms, from Bex to the billboard vigilante group BUGAUP, from opium dens to the Aquarius Festival to rave nation. "This exhibition doesn't pretend to provide solutions to problems associated with drug use in our society but by analysing the social context of drug use and tracing changes in our attitudes and laws relating to drugs, we hope to unravel some preconceptions," said Inara Walden. At the Museum of the Riverina Historic Council Chambers site, Cnr Baylis & Morrow Streets, Wagga Wagga. Contact Melinda Geltch Tel 02 6926 9654 Email geltch.melinda@wagga.nsw.gov.au Website www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/museum

Urthboy, The Tongue and Hermitude: a hip hop trifecta
5 October, Coorabell
Urthboy’s brand new album The Signal with single, 'We Get Around', has so far been a feature record on radio and television across the country. Urthboy’s live show unleashes charisma, good vibes and energy by the truckload. The Tongue has been in constant demand since appearing with his Bad Education EP in 2006 and played endlessly on Triple J. His LP is titled Shock and Awe. The Tongue is one of, if not the hottest new talents in the hip hop scene and is aided by the phenomenal talents of DJ Skoob. Hermitude are highly respected and lauded producers of hip hop breaks and instrumental music, with releases available worldwide and the likes of DJ Krush counted as fans. 7pm. Tickets $18/16/$22 from Barebones Artspace, Bangalow; Mullumbimby Book Shop, Michael’s Guitar Studio Mullum; Murwillumbah Music; All Music and Vision (+ B. Fee): Ballina, Lismore and Byron. Contact Ku Promotions Tel 02 6684 7921 Website www.kupromotions.com.au

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Out of the Blue
5 October – 4 November, Orange
In 1957 Yves Klein proclaimed 'L' Epoque Blue.' 50 years later local artists pay tribute to him and his patent of international Klein Blue. At Orange Regional Gallery Byng Street Orange. Tel 02 6393 8136

At Bathurst Regional Art Gallery this month
5 October – 18 November, Bathurst
Supercharged: the car in contemporary culture
Featuring works by Roderick Bunter, Sadie Chandler, Bill Henson, Martin Mischkulnig, Tracey Moffatt, Ben Morieson, Louise Paramor, Patricia Piccini, Scott Redford, Tim Ryan, Daniel Wallwork and Anne Zahalka. Curated by Vanessa McRae.
Steve Kirby: Between Choice and Chance
Working in his Old Mill studio in Keppel Street, Steve Kirby creates energetic abstract paintings. Great importance is placed on the relationship between line and shape, form and content.
Vivienne Binns
For two and a half years in the early 1980s Vivienne Binns lived in a caravan and travelled around the Central West region, from Lithgow to Lake Cargelligo conducting community art workshops. Twenty-six years later Binns returns to Bathurst to celebrate her 40 year career as an artist. Curated by Merryn Gates.
Bathurst Regional Art Gallery 70-78 Keppel Street Bathurst Tel 02 6333 6555

From the Beginning – ab origine
6 – 21 October, Moruya
Presented by Eurobodalla Shire Council, ab origine is an exhibition or recent works by local Aboriginal artists. The show is the culmination of a recent workshop series with some of the artists exhibiting work for the first time. Others have many years experience in the field. A shared journey. At The Mechanics Institue, Page Street, Moruya. Contact Penny Bonnell, SEAR Tel 02 4474 1088.

Crossing New England II
6 October – 10 November, Armidale
An exhibtion featuring a wide variety of work by twenty seven artists from Tamworth, Armidale, Glen Innes, Inverell, Tenterfield, Guyra, Dorrigo and Macksville. Includes painting, ceramics, glass, wood, textiles and mixed media works. This is the second Crossing New England exhibition and it follows the success of the first show last August. The exhibition will be opened on Saturday 6 October by Jack Ritchie, Regional Arts Development Officer for Arts North West, at 3.30pm. At Armidale Art Gallery, 168 Beardy Street. Contact Anna Henderson Tel 02 6779 7534 Email annaghenderson@bigpond.com

Recipes for Home
7 October, Condobolin
Public launch of a new recipe book by local women who have been involved in a project to learn computer skills, gain self esteem and confidence ... and produce a recipe book with stories about themselves. Sampling of multicultural food follows the book launch. This was a Western Plains Regional Development project made possible with a Federal Government grant and facilitated with the international women's group. 11.30am at the Condobolin Community Centre Dennison St Condobolin. Contact Heather Blackley Tel 02 6895 3301.

Broken Hill Country Music Roundup
11 – 13 October, Broken Hill
The Country Music Roundup offers free entertainment at the four main clubs in Broken Hill: Musicians Club, Legion Club, Democratic Club, Sturt Club. Starting at 2pm and finishing late. Artists include: Luke O'Shea, Matt Manning, Lee Forster, Sharon Benjamin, Nicki Gillis, Jim Hermel, Col Thomson, Ellen McLachlan Duo, Murray Mac & True Grit, Chrissie Murphy & Highway 32, Peter Crombie, Bruce Slater, Dennis Crombie, Reflections, Xanthe Edgecumbe, No Exit. Contact Chrissie Murphy or Paul Kemp Tel 08 8087 9263 Email chrissiemurphy1@dodo.com.au

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Green Matters
11 – 27 October, Morpeth
A beautiful show of drawings, paintings and photographs which speak of the beauty and impermanence of our landscape. Greenway Gallery is exhibiting six artists: Lezlie Tilley, Kath Ball, Jane Lander, Pam Ireland, Amanda Davies and Caroline Lobsey. James Ryan, Green Member for Cessnock Council, will open the show on Saturday 18 October, at 5pm, and discuss green related issues impacting directly on the region. Greenway Gallery, 166 Swan St, Morpeth Tel 02 4934 6411.

Nature Girl Nature Boy
11 October – 18 November, Murwillumbah
Works by Melissa Hirsch and Lae Oldmeadow in a show curated by Fran Cummings. Nature Girl Nature Boy is a whimsical description of an exhibition highlighting the connection between the works of two local artists utilising discarded plant materials. The art of Melissa and Lae emphasises their shared discovery of the construction, beauty and strength of plant life. At Tweed River Art Gallery, Cnr Tweed Valley Way & Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah Tel 02 6670 2790 Website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/artgallery

Art Horses
11 October – 18 November, Murwillumbah
In conjunction with Art Horses Australia, the Tweed River Art Gallery presents a display of seven life size horses, each uniquely designed and painted by well known Australia Artists. At Tweed River Art Gallery, Cnr Tweed Valley Way & Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah Tel 02 6670 2790 Website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/artgallery

Cats
12 – 27 October
Orange Theatre Company's production promises a high voltage package of a music theatre legend that is a celebration of life that will leave you purring with pleasure. Cats is based on Old Possums Book Of Practical Cats by T.S. Elliot, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The unforgettable score, ingenious lyrics and breathtaking exuberant dance numbers means only one thing: a night of non-stop entertainment. 8pm, at Orange Civic Theatre, Byng Street Orange. Tickets $39 Ticketek Tel 02 6393 8111

Gypsy Passion
13 October, Yass
A concert of music for voices, violin and piano. Artists from Canberra’s chamber opera company, Stopera, perform music inspired by the vibrant gypsy way of life and love, in a concert presented by the Yass Music Club. 'Gypsy Passion' is an exciting program of gypsy melodies from the concert repertoire for voice and violin, with excerpts from favourite operas and operettas. The program features Brahm’s Hungarian Dance, Dvorak’s Gypsy Songs including the popular 'Songs my mother taught me', swirling folk dances and melodies by Bartok, and finishes with music from the greatest of all Gypsy operas, Bizet’s Carmen. Featuring soprano Rebecca Collins, mezzo Christina Wilson, violinist Katherine Owen and pianist Vivienne Winther. Presented by the Yass Music Club, 8.15pm at The Memorial Hall, Comur St, Yass. Tickets $15. Contact Email info@stopera.org.au Website www.stopera.org.au

The Western Plains Cultural Centre turns 1
13 October, Dubbo
The Western Plains Cultural Centre is celebrating its first birthday. The past year has seen some great highlights for the centre: some Tibetan Monks visiting, The Armati Bequest, great shows and exhibitions, but none can top the visitation numbers! Since opening in their new premises in October 2006, the Western Plains Cultural Centre has been visited by a whopping 50,000 people. This is fantastic for the centre and the artists who exhibit here. Birthday celebrations will include entertainment, music, face-painting, circus performers, magicians, and a jumping castle. The Centre is also currently calling for regional artists in Western NSW to submit a proposal to exhibit their works in the Regional Art Space in 2008 (see Opportunities, below). Celebrations begin at 10am at Western Plains Cultural Centre, Dubbo. Website www.wpccdubbo.org.au

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Jigzag
13 October, Canowindra
Sydney-based trio Jigzag are one of Australia’s favourite acoustic acts. Jigzag won The National Folk Award for Best Live Act 2006. They play an exuberant blend of folk/pop with a jazzed up, funky heart. Their catchy, insightful lyrics and infectious joy and optimism have won them legions of fans around Australia since 1998. Jigzag features Liz Frencham (double bass, vocals), Caroline Trengove (violin, percussion, vocals) and Greg Bryce (guitar, vocals). All three are fantastic singers and their spine-tingling harmonies will have you on the edge of your seat. Swing, blues and Celtic influences add further richness to their luscious sound. 6:30pm at Taste Canowindra. $65 includes wine tasting, three course meal and show. Bookings Essential. Tel 02 6344 2332 Website www.tastecanowindra.com.au

Open Sculpture Garden:
Colin and Val Fenn's 'Written in Stone'
13 – 14 October, Bathurst
The Colin and Val Fenn designed gardens at Sandycamp, Bathurst provide a natural gallery for Colins' garden sculpture and stone calligraphy. Colin will demonstrate his skills when Sandycamp opens with two other Bathurst gardens as part of the Open Garden Scheme. Sandycamp, 125 Whalan's Lane Bathurst. 10am-4.30pm. Cost $5 adults, children free. Contact Arts OutWest Tel 02 6338 4657

Festival of the Stars: Warrumbungle Arts Expo
17 – 21 October, Coonabarabran
The first event in this year's Festival of the Stars program is a great opportunity for the general public to meet award-winning artists face to face. Diverse and creative skills such as leadlighting, silver jewellery, felting, embroidery, woodcarving, painting and aboriginal art and much more will be featured. The Shire Acquisitive Award Collection will be in one place for all to see the wonderful support the local council gives to the arts, with sponsorship and purchase of one art work per year over the last sixteen years from the annual exhibition. The expo will be opened by Angus Ewin at 7.30pm with wine, cheese and light supper at Coonabarabran Shire Hall, John St. Contact Kathy Tel 02 6842 1462 Email warrartx@dodo.com.au

Australian Chamber Orchestra
18 October, Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium presents the Australian Chamber Orchestra's APN Emerging Frontiers concert - where the worlds of music, film and surfing collide. Richard Tognetti and members of the internationally-renowned orchestra are joined for the first time by talented young string players from the ACO’s Emerging Artists ensemble, ACO2, to create a unique concert experience. An audio-visual event, APN Emerging Frontiers incorporates classical, world and rock music, set to a stunning visual backdrop of exclusive surf footage recently shot on King Island, Tasmania. Sharing the stage are special guest artists Tim Freedman (vocals/piano) and Terepai Richmond (drums) of The Whitlams fame, and outstanding oud player Joseph Tawadros. Music includes Shostakovich, Vivaldi, original works and improvisations by Joseph Tawadros, and original songs by Tim Freedman. Ticket $50/$25. 8pm, Jetty Memorial Theatre. Bookings Tel 02 6652 8088 Website www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/2251
*** SOLD OUT ***

The Lovedale Craftfest
19 – 21 October, Lovedale
Showcasing some of Australia’s finest and most exclusive craft works ever to be seen in one location in the Hunter Valley region, the Lovedale Craftfest also includes wine tastings from Cellar Master Peter Wright of the neighbouring Madigan Vineyard Cellars, showcasing some of Australia’s finest wines. The Craftfest is at the Ogishi Craft Centre, Cnr Wine Country Drive & Wilderness Road, Lovedale (Rothbury). Contact Setsuko Ogishi Tel 02 4998 7979 Email ogishiglass@bigpond.com Website www.ogishi.com.au

Taste of Country Festival
19 – 28 October, Harden
The annual art and photography exhibition of Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council will be opened at 8pm at the Old Court House by Alby Schultz, MP. The program includes a poets dinner & competition at 6pm on 27 October at the Harden Mechanics Institute (with $2,000 prize money); flower show on 27 October; a quilt exhibition from 26 - 28 October and a Kite Festival on 20 October at the race course. For tickets to Poets Dinner contact Lorraine Brown Tel 02 6386 2281. General enquiries contact Connie McFadyen Tel 02 6386 2575.

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Telstra Country Wide Sapphire City Festival
19 – 28 October, Inverell
Ten days of fabulous family fun in the Sapphire City, including street parades, fireworks, exhibitions, children’s entertainment, music, art and food. Events include The Great Debate, “That the Coyote should be allowed to catch the Roadrunner”, a poets' breakfast in Campbell Park, a Melbourne Cup display and a concert in the park with carabaret puppets by the internationally acclaimed David Hamilton. Exhibitions include: Newstead Preview Tour – a tour of the historic Newstead North Property, including the Shearing Shed where artist Tom Roberts painted the renowned The Golden Fleece; the Inverell Art Society Exhibition at the Inverell Art Gallery; the Inverell and District Lapidary Club Gem and Craft Show and a disaply of quilts, craft and collectables by the Sisters In Stitches Craft Group. Contact Inverell Tourism Tel 02 6728 8161 Website www.inverell-online.com.au

Cinema Castlereagh
20 October, Gilgandra
Orana Arts is running a series of outdoor movies on the banks of the Castlereagh River in conjunction with the Gilgandra Promotions & Economic Development Committee. The movies will give the community an opportunity to relax and enjoy the company of their friends and neighbours. Cinema Castlereagh is the latest community movie project to start-up in the local area following Flix in the Stix in Coonabarabran, Movies in Mendooran and the 2828 Movies in Gulargambone (part of the Outback Arts region). So why is there a resurgence in the popularity of community movies? Could it be the company of the people we share a community with that we crave, a collective love of film art-form, or is there a deficiency of popcorn in our diet? Whatever the reason, these cinematic events are bringing communities back together in a quiet way allowing people to share space with one another in contented entertainment. There will also be screeningsin November and December. More information online. Website www.oranaarts.com or www.gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

Harden Murrumburrah Kite Festival
20 October, Harden
Each year people travel from far and wide to experience the spectacular kite flying display in Harden-Murrumburrah and most importantly, to join in on the fun. The kids of the town have already begun preparations for the big day by participating in a series of kite making workshops supported by ERAP with ArtStart funding. Not only will the day be filled with kites of all different shapes and sizes but also musical performances and stalls. So why don’t you mark Saturday 20th October 2007 as your fun day and attend the Harden Kite Festival. The event is held at the Harden Racecourse from 10am – 4pm. Contact Bronwyn Tel 02 6386 2161

Ten Canoes
20 October, Deniliquin
As part of the AFC's Big Screen Festival there will be a free screening of Ten Canoes at the Deniliquin Town Hall at 2pm on Saturday 20 October. Winner of 6 AFI and 3 IF Awards and the Special Jury Prize Un Certain Regard at the Cannes Film Festival, Ten Canoes tells the story of a distant past in tribal times. Dayindi (Jamie Gulpilil) covets one of the wives of his older brother. To teach him the proper way, he is told a story from the mythical past, a story of wrong love, kidnapping, sorcery and revenge gone wrong. The film is in English narration (by David Gulpilil) and (subtitled) Ganalbingu language and is unlike any you have seen before. Ten Canoes screens as part of Wamba Wamba week, the annual celebration of Deniliquin's local Indigenous culture and heritage, and is presented by the Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre, Nyerna Reconciliation Group, Deniliquin Arts Council and the Deniliquin Film Society. Contact Kate Butler Tel 03 5884 6688 Email greenacres@bordernet.com.au

Peter Cousens in the Vineyard
20 October, Orange
From West Side Story to Les Mis - if you love a musical then you must join Belgravia later this month, when Peter Cousens, one of Australia's top performers, will be singing the classics with Graham Sattler and the Orange Symphony Orchestra. Bring a picnic and settle in for a spring afternoon of great food, wine and music. This will be Belgravia's major event for Orange Wine Week. Tickets $55, including performance, dessert and a glass of wine. 1pm for 2.30pm shwo. At the Union Bank Café and Belgravia Cellar Door, cnr Sale and Byng St, Orange. Bookings Tel 02 6365 0663

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Sartory String Quartet in Concert
20 October, Tallangatta
24 October, Albury
27 October, Yackandandah
Sartory String Quartet will be performing to communities across regional NSW as part of Australian Youth Orchestra's regional outreach and development program, the Young Australian Concert Artists (YACA) Regional Residency. An extension of the already successful YACA program, the YACA Regional Residency program gives an outstanding young chamber ensemble the opportunity to benefit from expert tuition by leading professional musicians and enjoy the experience of performing chamber music across regional Australia. Concerts will continue into November and December, check website for details. Contact Joy Leaper Tel 02 9252 3855 Website www.ayo.com.au/Content/Page.aspx?CID=1

The Barnstorming Tour: State of Grace
18 October, Cowra
20 October, Bega
22 October, Eden
26 October, Moruya
28 October, Batemans Bay
The Sculthorpe Quartet, with William Barton, one of Australia's foremost didjeridu players, and percussionist Timothy Constable, deputy artistic director of percussion group, Synergy, will perform 'State of Grace' in four towns across the Central West and South East this month. The concert program draws on music from a range of sacred traditions including Buddhist, Islamic, Christian, Jewish and Indigenous works that will take you on a journey from the earth to the heavens. Presented by the South East Arts Region (SEAR) in association with Four Winds. Contact SEAR Tel 1300 667 136 Website www.sear.org.au or, for the Cowra concert Tel 02 6342 1916.

Australia’s Biggest Goose Show
21 October, Warialda
Ceramic Break Sculpture Park is hosting another fowl-themed art exhibition, “dedicated to the goose and all the nice things that geese do for us”. Situated in north-western NSW near the town of Warialda, Ceramic Break Sculpture Park is an eclectic mix of art galleries, a sculpture walk and a participatory evolving art work, involving the smashing of ceramics. Included in the Goose Show exhibition are the final photographs from Gwydir Shire Council’s “Shoot the Shire” Competition, The Warialda High School students’ final HSC projects, works by local artists and new sculptures by Kerry Cannon. There will be “goose-related” activities for kids and adults, including a goose art display by Warialda school children, a goose-calling competition and a goose-walk race; also a craft market, a live band, food and refreshments. 10am to 5pm, adults $10, kids under 15 free. Contact Ceramic Break Tel 02 6729 4147 Website www.cbreaksculpturepark.com.au

Our World Through Children's Eyes
22 October – 9 November, Sydney
An exhibition of environmental artwork produced by more than 1,000 NSW and Peruvian school children. The artwork was produced over twelve months, led by World Through Children's Eyes Team Coordinator Phil Pittman. The project supported children's artistic expression and educated them about the need to protect threatened species and their habitats. The children develop lifelong learning skills, such as developing the ability to ultilise their local surroundings to help them interpret and learn about cultural and social issues. The exhibition comprises of seven murals, individual framed artworks, photographs and stories exchanged in both countries, including works by children from twelve rural communities. A collaboration between Circles of Learning, Kids Earth Fund Australia, Peru Challenge, Ethica Accessories, and the Lonely Planet Foundation. At ABN AMRO Building in Phillip St, Sydney. Contact Phil Pittman Email philpittman@optusnet.com.au

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Bangers & Mash
24 October, Coonabarabran
26 October, Mendooran
27 October, Gilgandra
Sounds like dinner, doesn’t it – but its not! Bangers & Mash is a delightful theatre production touring the Orana region in October. Serving up great comedy that sparks with energy, Bangers & Mash is about two unlikely flatmates and their attraction to one another. Presented by Critical Stages, starring Drew Fairley and Kate Smith and directed by Chris Baker – Bangers & Mash is great fun! Website www.criticalstages.com.au

Torchlight Tours
25 October, Bathurst
It's dark. It's eerie. There are three dinosaurs in the building and you're armed only with a torch. Come to the museum at night! It's an experience the family will never forget. Torchlight Tours are held during school holidays. Bookings essential. Cost $10/$5. 7pm at Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, home of the Somerville Collection, 224 Howick Street Bathurst. Contact Tel 02 6331 5511.

Dorrigo Folk & Blue Grass Festival
26 – 28 October
The 2007 Festival promises to continue on with the great traditions established during previous years. Over the five previous festivals Dorrigo has hosted some of the cream of Australian Folk and Bluegrass artists, many of whom are regular performers at high profile festivals in Australia and overseas. The Dorrigo Festival offers what is now a unique experience. Performers include: Juzzie Smith, Mundy-Turner, Coyote Serenade, The Pirate Brides, The Sheepdogs, Sunburnt Celts, Fiddlesticks, Horton River Boys. Tel 02 6657 1229 Email festival@dorrigo.com Website www.dorrigo.com/festival

In Site Out
26 October – 18 November, Orange
In Site Out is a biennial outdoor art event which this year includes 32 fixed sculptures, installations and works in the Orange Botanic Gardens. Highlights of this year's event include the Official Launch on 4 November at 11am; an Artists' Symposium on 4 and 5 November; Artists' Markets (17 and 18 November); TasteWaste Events for schools (28 October & 4 November), a Green Words Workshop ran by the Central West Writers Centre (18 November) and children's workshops and activities along with guided tours by artists. Orange Botanic Gardens, Hill St Orange. Contact Arts OutWest Tel 02 6338 4657.
In Site Out is a project of Arts OutWest, supported by Arts NSW, the Regional Arts Fund, Orange Regional Arts Foundation and Orange City Council.

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Classic Baroque
28 October, Orange
An Orange Regional Conservatorium presentation of the Orange Chamber Music Festival featuring Zest Baroque performing music from the 17th and 18th centuries on original instruments. $25/ $20 conc/ $70 family of four. 3pm, Orange Regional Conservatorium 73A Hill Street Orange Tel 02 6361 7974.

The Saruzu Quartet
1 – 2 November, Bangalow
Ku Promotions present The Saruzu Quartet with Kacey Patrick of Stringmansassy. A fiery flamenco-jazz ensemble, The Saruzu Quartet interprets the rich harmonies of Argentine tango, the wild improvisations of gypsy jazz, and the fire and grace of flamenco. Expect blistering string solos and superb collaborative playing. Two shows: 1 November at Bangalow Catholic Hall Tix $18/$16; and 2 November at the Tweed River Art Gallery Tix $25. Doors open 7.30 for Show at 8pm. Further details online. Website www.kupromotions.com.au

Construction of the Human Heart
2 November, Lismore
3 November, Bangalow
Nominated for four Green Room Awards and a 2007 AWGIE award, Construction of the Human Heart is a beautifully written play by Ross Mueller. Featuring Fiona Macleod and Todd MacDonald, the play revolves around a couple, known only as Him and Her, and their attempt to deal with unimaginable loss. Star Court Theatre, Lismore (Friday) & Bangalow Catholic Hall (Saturday). Both shows 8.00pm. Tickets $35/$30/$18. Contact NORPA Tel 1300 066 772 Website www.norpa.org.au

Folk in Broke – a musical spectrum
3 – 4 November, Broke
Inaugural festival encompassing folk, jazz , blues, world music and more. A full festival program including workshops, dance, blackboard concerts, kids fest, poets breakfast, and more over 8 venues. Held in the peaceful township of Broke, nestled in the heart of the Hunter Vineyard region. Camping available by the river or check out one of the many outstanding B&B accommodations in the area. Email mopb@dodo.com.au Website www.brokefordwich.com.au Website www.myspace.com/folkinbrokefestival

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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