RANSW e-Bulletin 1-4-05

This month's issue is phenomenal with no less than 93 news stories, highlights of regional arts events, seminars, training and other events and listings of grants, prizes, new resources and more.

To contribute, pass it on, subscribe or know more about this e-Bulletin including the deadline for next month's edition go to 'About this e-Bulletin'

NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK 2005 - 'MAKE IT YOURS'
9 - 17 April, Everywhere!
There's an incredible array of events and activities for young people in New South Wales during Youth Week, including
concerts, movie nights, exhibitions and shows;
creative workshops in everything from filmmaking to bush tucker, circus skills to jewellery making;
skating and other sporting events as well as
drops ins, competitions and more!
Last year 164 councils in NSW supported Youth Week events and more than 10,000 young people were involved in putting on around 1,000 events, which were attended by over 140,000 young people. Wow!
The NSW Youth Week website includes an excellent search function by region www.youthweek.nsw.gov.au/

THE KENDALL NATIONAL VIOLIN COMPETITION
9 & 10 April, Government House, Sydney
Eight outstanding young violinists from around Australia will be performing at Government's House in the semifinals of the Kendall National Violin competition. Artistic Director, Associate Professor Goetz Richter, expects an exciting competition, with performances amongst best in the history of the event. Four musicians will be chosen to proceed to the finals to be held in Kendall in May. The winner will be presented with the 100th Graham Caldersmith violin, an exquisite instrument made of Australian timbers in a four-century-old European tradition which will be on display at Government House during the semifinals. Contact Historic Houses Trust Tel 02 8239 2211 for tickets or Keri Levy Tel 02 6559 4619 Email kerilevy@tsn.cc Website www.kendallviolin.org.au

PLACES THAT NAME US - RAKA AWARD FINALLISTS
22 April - 22 May, Cowra Art Gallery
Featuring a range of new works by thirteen outstanding contemporary Aboriginal artists, all short-listed for the prestigious Kate Challis RAKA Award. The show includes bark and canvas paintings, photography, prints, drawing and sculpture in a carefully selected cross-section of the very best contemporary Aboriginal art. Several works explore the political and social ramifications of displacement, others give a unique insight into the strength of contemporary Aboriginal culture in the face of anthropological and political stereotyping. The exhibition will be opened on 22 April at 6.30pm by Brenda Croft, Senior Curator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art, National Gallery of Australia. At Cowra Art Gallery, 77 Darling Street, Cowra Tel 02 6340 2190 Email cowraartgallery@cowra.nsw.gov.au.

Tasmanian documentary photographer Ricky Maynard was the recipient of the 2003 RAKA Award for his large-scale (120x146cm) photograph Returning to places that name us/Arthur 2000.

THE 2005 OUTBACK ART PRIZE
1 April - 10 May, Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery
Each year the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery invites artists to submit works on or with paper for the Outback Art Prize. Held annually since 1956, the Award consists of three Acquisitive Prizes, valued at $10 000, for work which signicantly addresses the theme of the prize, the Australian Outback. This year the Gallery has over 50 artists represented from across the country exploring themes like personal and spiritual isolation, the landscape and the drought. Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery. Tel 08 8088 6985 Email artgallery@brokenhill.nsw.gov.au Website http://artgallery.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au/

Image: Craig L. Brookes, Untitled, Acrylic Pigment on Paper on card 240cm x 130 cm. "The Ranger with his 4WD polices environmental whiteman law and can be seen to be the modern equivalent to the Aboriginal Rainbow Snakes story of Thugine and his wife who are the guardians of the river."

BIG SCREEN 2005 - ALL AUSTRALIAN FILM FESTIVAL
8 April, Broken Hill, with Wilcannia & Menindee
Responding to many invitations from regional centres around Australia, this year Big Screen embarks on its most extensive tour ever, including 28 regional locations in the next nine months. Screening the latest releases, award winning features and shorts, special school and bubs clubs screenings, archival films and retrospectives, Big Screen is the only festival that offers a comprehensive snapshot of Australian film. In 2005 Big Screen celebrates 50 years of Jedda; offers the silent film The Sentimental Bloke with live accompaniment and will premiere films such as The Illustrated Family Doctor and Hating Alison Ashley. The festival also presents a high profile industry guest to present films and enjoy regional hospitality. Further NSW dates in Ulladulla, Bathurst and Orange in July. Contact Peter Castaldi Tel 02 9321 6451 Website www.afc.gov.au/newsandevents/afcnews/bigscreen05/newspage_164.aspx

THROUGH THE WIRE
26 - 30 April, HotHouse Theatre, Wodonga
A sell-out hit at the 2004 Sydney Festival, Through the Wire is an award winning play by Ros Horin about three Australians, four refugees and the life changing relationships that have developed between them. It presents gripping true tales of repression and exile, dangerous escapes, powerful friendships, resilience and survival inside Australian detention centres. A striking theatrical experience combining live music, digital imagery and the real-life words of ordinary people at the centre of an extraordinary story. $35/$23 Presented by HotHouse Theatre at the Butter Factory, Wodonga Tel 02 6021 7433 Email info@hothousetheatre.com.au Website www.hothousetheatre.com.au

“... one of the most powerful, moving and gripping theatrical experiences I’ve had. The season sold out, and had a 100% standing ovation at every performance.“ – Brett Sheehy, Sydney Festival Director, 2004

NATIONAL CCD ALLIANCE RESPONSE TO OZCO RESTRUCTURE PROPOSAL
A national coalition of CCD organisations, agencies, community groups and individual practitioners - the National Arts and Culture Alliance (NACA) - formed in response to the Australia Council's announcement of its proposed restructure last December, has prepared a detailed and coordinated submission to the Council's Planning for the Future Taskforce. NACA's submission focusses in particular on the revised model for the establishment of Community Partnerships section of the Australia Council's proposal. The submission follows both protracted negotiations by Alliance members with the Australia Council as well as a number of long meetings and workshops involving the CCD field and the Australia Council. The key issues for the sector have been the need for effective consultation with the field, a commitment to current levels of funding for CCD work and an undertaking to evaluate the restucture in the future. Comments on the paper are sought with a deadline of Wednesday 6 April. [More].

COUNTRY ARTS SUPPORT PROGRAM DELIVERS 148 GRANTS FOR 2005
The Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program ('CASP') is an annual program that provides a total of $200,000 in small grants to local community groups across regional New South Wales for arts and cultural projects. The long-running program is inclusive of all art forms and targeted to deliver funds to every region of the State. It is not only very popular, but is a key source of support for regional arts development in New South Wales. On Monday 4 April a slate of successful grant applicants from this year's funding round will be announced by the NSW Premier and Minister for the Arts, Bob Carr and other NSW Members of Parliament from around New South Wales. The list includes a diverse range of public art works; performances; skills development and training in all artforms from hip hop dance and circus skills to landscape painting and choral works; a number of festivals and events; traditional and contemporary Indigenous cultural work and much, much more.

*** STOP PRESS ***
The list of grants is now available on the Regional Arts NSW website [here].

NORTHERN RIVERS TO STAR AT NATIONAL CREATIVE INDUSTRIES CONFERENCE
Arts and cultural practitioners, administrators and decision makers from around the country will converge at Byron Bay next week for the Department of Communications, IT and the Art's biennial OZeCulture Conference, 7 - 8 April. On the program is a case study of how New Zealand has used The Lord of the Rings trilogy to reposition itself as a world centre for creative industry, screenings of innovative digital media works by Australian artists, and Arts Northern Rivers' RADO, Lois Randall and film producer Cathy Henkel will present a case study on the development of the creative industries in the Northern Rivers region. The conference will also be the backdrop for the launch of the Northern Rivers Creative Industry Strategy. Website www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au/conference4/

PLUG THE WINNER AT JINDABYNE'S SCULPTURE BY THE LAKE
Narooma art student Heather Gow-Carey has won the Jindabyne Sculpture by the Lake competition with her piece, 'The Plug'. Situated about ten metres from the shore of Lake Jindabyne, the work conveys a strong social message about water conservation. According to Jo Wright, Project Officer from South East Arts Region, the sculpture has been the talking point of the Easter art festivities. Ms Gow-Carey is a student from Narooma High School. "She actually entered as a youth entry and ended up taking out the major award," said Ms Wright. Jess Graham of Nimmitabel was runner-up in the competition and St Patrick's School in Cooma won the junior section.

VISUAL ARTS NETWORK KICKS OFF WITH KEY APPOINTMENT IN NORTHERN RIVERS
Arts Northern Rivers has appointed Melitta Firth as their Visual Arts Network (VAN) Coordinator. Melitta will work with local artists to address their professional and business development and marketing needs as part of a major new initiative for the region funded in partnership with the NSW Department of State & Regional Development and the NSW Ministry for the Arts. The Northern Rivers VAN will include training and mentorship programs, marketing initiatives and events, professional development clinics and forums and the development of a web site and virtual gallery. Melitta has a strong professional and academic background in the visual arts. She was the Assistant Gallery Manager at the Tim Olsen Gallery in Sydney for the past four years and she recently completed a curatorial internship at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York. Melitta has web development and design skills as well as experience working at a national and international level with artists, galleries, sponsors and collectors. Contact Melitta Firth at Arts Northern Rivers Tel 02 6628 8120.

MAITLAND IS THE NEW ARTS CAPITAL OF NEW SOUTH WALES
The Premier and NSW Minister for the Arts, Bob Carr, announced Maitland as the new City of the Arts in March, with a $300,000 commitment to fund a range of local cultural projects in the area over the next two years. The City of the Arts program is designed to fast-track the development of arts projects and facilities; enhance opportunities for local artists and increase participation in a wide range of cultural and heritage events. The program was established as a biennial award to a regional centre in 1995, with The Blue Mountains the inaugural beneficiary. This was followed by Broken Hill (1997-99), Armidale-Dumaresq (1999-2001), Hastings (2001-2003) and The Tweed (2003-2005). Maitland City Council's tender for the award comprised a series of eleven cornerstone projects, based on the promotion of the city's heritage, buildings and precincts. Maitland's term as City of the Arts begins on 1 July and continues to 30 June 2007.

MID NORTH COAST WRITERS' ASSOCIATION IS BORN
The NSW Mid North Coast now has a Writers' Association. Formally a sub-committee of Arts Mid North Coast, the Association plans to provide creative and skills development opportunities for the large number of writers groups and individuals in the region. The group intends to use alternative networking methods such as the internet and video-conferencing to connect writers from the Great Lakes to Coffs Harbour, and will have a special focus on promoting access by young people and marginalised groups. Dr Lisa Milner from the Nambucca Valley, inaugural President of the Association said that as well as providing information on funding, professional development and opportunities for writers to further their craft, the Association will develop its relationships with libraries and other existing organisations in the region. "We are confident that this will be the start of a great support arrangement for writers on the Mid North Coast," she said. Contact Dr Milner Tel 02 6564 8424 Email lisamissabotti@hotmail.com.

MEET ORANA ARTS' NEW PROJECT & PROMOTIONS OFFICER
Merryn Spencer has been appointed as Orana Arts' new Project and Promotions Officer, replacing Kim Goldsmith. A recent graduate from the Australian National University, Merryn comes to the position after her employment as an advertorial journalist at The Canberra Times. Merryn is also a sculptor and performance and installation artist. Orana Arts services the communities of Warrumbungle, Narromine, Dubbo and Gilgandra. Contact Merryn at Orana Arts Tel 02 6847 0559.

RUTH WHYTE BEQUEST GRANTS $12,000 FOR COMMUNITY MUSIC IN ALBURY-WODONGA
Grants to the value of $12,000 have been made from the Ruth Whyte Bequest to a number of highly regarded community-based organisations in the Albury Wodonga region. Recipients include the Albury City Band, Jazz Albury Wodonga, Mount Beauty Music Muster, Murray Arts, the Ngan Girra Festival and the Wodonga Citizens' Band. The Ruth Whyte Bequest is administered by Charles Sturt University and Murray Conservatorium. Contact Peter Lynch Tel 02 6042 0901

ACCESSIBLE ARTS APPOINTS NEW CEO
After a period of intense restructuring under the direction of Tim Wilson, Consulting Director, Accessible Arts has appointed Sancha Donald as their new CEO. With seven and a half years' experience as CEO of Technical Aid to the Disabled (TAD), Sancha brings valuable knowledge and experience in the disability sector to the already excellent work of Accessible Arts. "I am proud to have the opportunity to lead Accessible Arts in its next phase of development, and I look forward to your support in that process," she said. Contact Accessible Arts Tel 02 9251 6499 Website http://aarts.net.au

YOU FELLAS SPEAK UP!
Until 5 June, Dubbo Regional Art Gallery
PJ McNeil (Untitled) 2005

A survey of NSW Indigenous art which creates a dialogue between the North-West of NSW and the South Coast - from Bourke, Brewarrina, Dubbo, Lightning Ridge and Walgett to Sydney and the Shoalhaven. The exhibition seeks to chart a fertile and constantly evolving culture; highlighting and continuing the rich tradition of mentorship that is intrinsic to Indigenous society, with artists of renown and promise. Works by Mervyn Bishop, Bronwyn Bancroft, Joe Hurst, Johanna Parker, Leslie Mason, PJ McNeil, Warren Mason, Gail Naden, Tanya Henry, Ken Ward, Debbie Beno and Cara Peckham chronicle stories of the towns and cities across the State, underscoring the richly diverse visual culture of NSW Aboriginal art, through self portraits, familial emblems, night skies, heroes and many more. Presented by Outback Arts and Dubbo Regional Gallery Tel 02 6881 4342.

THE BALD ARCHIES ON TOUR
Until 25 April, Coffs Harbour
2 - 29 May, Sydney
The Bald Archy comic art competition takes the mickey and the pretence out of the Archibald Portraiture Prize. Currently on tour to Coffs Harbour and Sydney. At the Bunker Cartoon Gallery, Coffs Harbour Tel 02 6651 7343 Website www.bunkercartoongallery.com.au and the Queen Victoria Building, Sydney Tel 0439 672 213.

MUSAEUS PRESENTS FAVOURITE MUSICAL THEATRE EXCERPTS
2 April, Cootamundra
Musaeus is a unique ensemble that specialises in staging excerpts from all your favourite musical comedies. Come on a journey with them from the emotional melodies of Les Mis, to the tragic drama of Martin Guerre via the high-spirited Hairspray. Thrill to the soaring harmonies of Titanic, sing along to the rollicking fun of Kiss Me Kate and dream of the past with The Merry Widow. Cootamundra Arts Centre. Contact Sean Tel 0410 636 202 or Julie Tel 0402 722 804

EASTER CANTATA
3 April, Ardlethan
The Ardlethan Community Choir has prepared a wonderful selection of music to celebrate the Easter period. The program includes some well known hymns and music to sing along to or just listen to. The Choir has decided that this concert will raise funds for Greg Armstrong of Coolamon who is in need of a bone marrow transplant. Ardlethan Uniting Church. Contact Deborah Gilchrist Tel 02 6978 3818 Email yaralla@simplex.net.au

DIE FLEDERMAUS, BY CO-OPERA
3 April, Warren
Presented by Warren Arts Council in the open air on the Victoria Oval, it's a first for Warren! For the price of a car park at the Opera House, the talented singers from Co-opera will perform this flamboyant and fun-filled opera outside under the stars. The sun setting over the Macquarie River will be the cue to spread picnic rugs and settle down with friends for the magical experience of light-hearted, uplifting opera in a unique setting. Cost: $25/$10. Contact Audrey Weston Tel 02 6847 3136

TRADITIONAL INDONESIAN GRASS PUPPET SHOWS FOR CHILDREN
4 - 11 April, Cowra
Acclaimed Indonesian artist Jumaadi will visit the small schools in the area surrounding the Cowra area to talk about Indonesian arts and culture and the wayang rumput (traditional Indonesian grass puppets, a form of folk craft, in contrast to the shadow puppets of royal heritage). These traditionally were used as a form of children's entertainment, and later as a political statement of a democratic craft created by the masses; contemporary Indonesian theatre groups now have reintepreted them to use in a new visual art form. Jumaadi will demonstrate the weaving technique with students and conduct weaving workshops at each school. He will be using grasses he has gathered from the local paddocks and reserves. Cowra Art Gallery. Tel 02 6340 2190 Email cowraartgallery@cowra.nsw.gov.au

FACE TO FACE
7 April - 22 May, Murwillumbah
A rare oppoortunity to view a large selection of Australian portraits works from the Tweed River Art Gallery's permanent collection. No history of this significant section of the collection would be complete without mention of the controversial Doug Moran National Portrait Prize, established in 1988. The gallery's portrait collection now contains 90 portraits, including 35 from the 1988 to 2000 Moran Prizes. Predominantly contemporary, the portraits range from 1890 to 2003 and include oils, acrylic, fibre, wood and photography, with portraits of Australians from all walks of life, from the famous to the not so famous. Artists include George Gittoes, Robert Hannaford, Josonia Palaitis, Tom Roberts, Brian Dunlop, Bryan Westwood, Kristen Headlam and Greg Creek. Tweed River Art Gallery, Murwillumbah Tel 02 6670 2790 Email tweedart@tweed.nsw.gov.au.

WILLIAM AMER: COUNTRY HALLS TOUR
9 April, Woodstock
Amer sings his songs and plays rare and familiar gramophone recordings, fresh from his one man concert for the Governor of NSW, Marie Bashir. Cost: $20 (includes drinks). Woodstock Soldiers' Hall, Woodstock (near Cowra). Tel 02 9605 4347 Email info@eventions.org

OLIVE AND VINE WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL CONCERT
9 April, Pokolbin
A day of free entertainment. Part of the Olive and Vine Festival, a celebration of local produce from the Hunter Region. Special guest artists include Maureen O'Brien and her band Too Too Blue, Rob Johnson, Chris Cady, Kent Daniels, Happy Feet and Strongbow. The concert will be followed by a Bush Poets BBQ from 6-9pm. Tel 02 4998 7288 Email info@mistletoe.com.au

KICK THE CAN PRESENTS LOREN
10 April, Wagga Wagga
Come and be mesmerised by this magic singer/songwriter as he stops in Wagga Wagga on a Sunday afternoon on his NZ / Australian tour. The Tourist Hotel Tel 02 6921 2264 Website www.kickthecan.com.au or www.loren.com.au

OPERA BY STARLIGHT: DIE FLEDERMAUS
12 April, Deniliquin
A famous operetta in the sparkling Viennese tradition, Die Fledermaus is glamorous, gorgeous and overflowing with champagne music. The characters are colourful and extreme, ranging from a passionate Italian tenor to a drunken, confused jailer. Sung in English and performed in the round, this CoOpera performance is sparkling from beginning to end and with a story line that revolves around fun and hilarity. BYO picnic, chair or blanket and delicious supper treats will be available for sale. Waring Gardens, Deniliquin. $33/$28/$5. Tel 1800 650 712 or Sue Mulligan Tel 03 5881 3100.

CRESCENDO IV - ALL AGES CONCERT
15 April, Temora
A battle of the bands followed by a headline act (or two). All ages, alcohol free event. Federal Park, Temora. Contact Kellie Lewis Tel 02 6977 1099 Email klewis@temora.nsw.gov.au

CENTRAL WEST REGIONAL ARTS GATHERING & ARTS OUTWEST AGM
17 April, Canowindra
Everyone is invited to this day of engagement in the vibrant art and cultural life of the central west. It's a chance to talk about what you are doing, ask the hard questions, see what others are up to and learn something new. Hear a dynamic presentation from special guest Lisa Andersen, Audience Development Specialist from Regional Arts NSW. This is also your opportunity to be involved in making decisions on the future of Arts OutWest, including changes to the Constitution, the Strategic Plan 2005-7 and nomination of Board members. The Old Vic Inn, Canowindra. Tel 02 6338 4657 Email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au
RSVP by 10 April

GAOL: THE ROCKS CONNECTION
17 April, South West Rocks
The Rocks Connection plays jazz that ranges from New Orleans to Swing in style and is a well known on the Jazz Festival circuit. Don't miss this show held in the historic Trial Bay Gaol $5/$3. Contact Karen Gribbin Tel 02 6566 6907 Email studiocone10@tsn.cc

FROLIC IN THE VALLEY 2005
17 April, Nambucca Heads
A community based festival for youth and families. Frolic combines children's activities, live music, sidewalk chalk drawing, workshops, market stalls and lots of great food & drinks. There are also free activities for kids. The theme of this year's festival is Ocean Mythology. Kids and adults are encouraged to dress up in the theme to win some great prizes. Frolic in the Valley is all ages event with strictly no alcohol or pets. Bellwood Park, Nambucca Heads. Contact Kerry Grace Tel 02 6568 2781 Email frolic2005@optusnet.com.au

MADVIOLET AUSTRALIAN TOUR
22 April, Bangalow
Fusing melodic vocals with guitar and luscious fiddle lines around their intimate sound, Canadian duo Madviolet deliver emotionally charged and passionate live performances of folk sensibility with fringes touching on alt-country, rock and pop. A & I Hall, Bangalow. $20 on the door. Tel 02 6684 7921 Mobile 0412 140 320

MOSTLY MOZART
23 April, Kendall
A presentation of classical songs featuring three young graduates of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music with profits going to the Community Fundraising Appeal to purchase the Holy Trinity Church site in Laurieton for use by the community as a town green. Kendall School of Arts, Kendall in the Camden Haven. Contact Lyndal Coote Tel 02 6559 9953 Email lcoote@tsn.cc

PAPERWORKS
23 April - 22 May, Cowra
In conjunction with the Kate Challis RAKA Award finallists (see Highlights). Embossed paper artworks by Euraba Paper Company, the premier Aboriginal papermaking company in North West NSW. Opening: 22 April 6.30pm, by Brenda Croft, Senior Curator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art, National Gallery of Australia. Traditional Welcoming Dance performed by Bayai, a dance group of Aboriginal young men from Cowra. Made possible by grants from the NSW Ministry for the Arts & Regional Arts NSW. Cowra Art Gallery Tel 02 6340 2190 Email cowraartgallery@cowra.nsw.gov.au

AJAK KWAI
29 April, Byron Bay
An Afro Dinka funky dance night. Ajak's music is influenced by her Sudanese/Arabic roots. The music combines a wide range of different instruments including the oud, accordion and darrabukkas, together with other African instruments, the kora and traditional drums. Coorabell Hall, Byron Bay. Cost: $16/$14 at the door. Tel 02 6684 7921 Mobile 0412 140 320

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Seminars, Workshops, Training

STAGECRAFT WORKSHOPS WITH SEAN ANDREWS
1 & 2 April, Cootamundra Arts Centre
20 & 21 May, CADAS Cootamundra
Devoted to musical theatre (Titanic, Scarlet Pimpernel, Les Miserables, My Fair Lady) and with a deep commitment to Opera Australia (Dido & Aeneas, Barber of Seville, Love for Three Oranges), Sean has a unique ability to connect with students of all ages and abilities. He is patient and empathetic whilst leading students to realise the ability within. Contact Geraldine Ryan Tel 02 6942 2734 or Isobel Scott Tel 02 6942 1732

STRATEGIC INDIGENOUS AWARENESS TRAINING
6 April, Tamworth
8 April, Moree
Using a unique interactive learning approach, the program provides a simulation of Indigenous Australians' experience, supplemented with information exchange sessions and allows you to walk briefly in Indigenous footsteps. Training will increase awareness and knowledge of:
The three stages through which Indigenous society has evolved;
The impact of past events and issues confronting Indigenous Australians today;
The core issues and concerns of Indigenous people, and the factors that contribute to their disadvantaged position;
The diversity of Indigenous Australian people living in urban, rural and remote communities;
The cultural and structural barriers that inhibit effective communication, negotiation and consultation with Indigenous individuals and communities.
Cost: $150.00 per person which includes a workbook, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
Bookings are essential - Places are limited. For Tamworth Tel 02 6766 4480, for Moree Tel 02 6750 7300.

CCD ONLINE DIPLOMA, CCD NSW
This new CCD course provides participants with the competencies needed to work in community cultural development at a project and program management level. In particular it is designed for arts workers, organisers and artists as well as people working in fields allied to community cultural development, environment, health, youth work, arts organisations, Aboriginal organisations, migrant organisations. This diploma is offered Online. Tel 02 9764 6588 Email info@ccdnsw.org Web www.ccdnsw.org/ccdnsw/training/405_dip.php
Closing 8 April

ARTS MID NORTH COAST FUNDING CONSULTATION DAYS
19 April, Coffs Harbour
21 April, Port Macquarie
Are you thinking of applying for funds through state or Federal funding rounds in 2005? Do you have any events, workshops, concerts, professional development ideas for 2005 and would like to seek funding for them through State and Federal Funding rounds? Arts Mid North Coast is organising one-on-one 30 minute consultation sessions with Richard Holloway (Regional Arts Development Officer), to discuss your project ideas and possible avenues of funding to implement them. Slots available from 9.30am both days. First come, first served. Contact Arts Mid North Coast Tel 02 6658 9400 Email russells@artsmidnorthcoast.org

CREATEABILITY
26 April, Sydney
This free seminar gives artists an opportunity to know more about Community Cultural Development projects with a focus on working artistically with people with a disability. This includes presentations of Accessible Arts projects and art workers' experiences as well as basics about Disability Awareness for Arts Workers. Spaces for seminar are limited. Holroyd City Council, Merrylands. Contact Astrid Reinke, Holroyd CreateAbility Coordinator Tel 9840 9987 Email astrid.reinke@holroyd.nsw.gov.au
RSVP by 15 April

LINGA LONGA ABORIGINAL PHILOSOPHY WEEK
11 April - 16 April, Rollands Plains (near Port Macquarie)
Philosophy Week gives you the opportunity to spend five days and nights 'Koori time', camping under the stars in the tranquil Rollands Plains. The week includes presentations from Indigenous Philosophers and Teachers and allows lots of time for sitting around a campfire and sharing your views on culture, spirituality and healing. Indigenous and non-indigenous people of all ages (including children), gather each year in this relaxing and friendly environment to dance, learn, laugh and grow with the oldest living culture in the world. Non-powered camping facilities including showers and toilets. Cost $110 - $660. Contact Jack Beetson Tel 02 6585 8282 Email philosophyweek@midcoast.com.au Website www.midcoast.com.au/~shanib/

FURTHER SUSTAINABILITY FORUM: ARTSWORKER AS ACTIVIST AND LEADER
20 April, Sydney
A forum which acknowledges the dual role of artsworkers as activists and leaders in the course of their everyday work. Includes a panel discussion and opportunities to engage in critical debate. Presented by CCDNSW, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre and Liverpool City Council. Liverpool Regional Museum, Liverpool. Contact Angela Tel 02 9821 2210 (ext 4) Email angela@ccdnsw.org

POLITICS AND POSITIONING - MUSEUMS AUSTRALIA NATIONAL CONFERENCE
1 - 4 May, Powerhouse Museum and ABC, Sydney
Politics and Positioning will explore the opportunities and challenges facing museums as they seek to reinvent and revitalize the sector in a time of contradiction and change. Politics and Positioning will examine issues facing collections from digital technology to concerns about ongoing sustainability, the shifting focus to audience needs and accessibility, the claiming of the museum by an increasing range of stakeholders and interest groups, and questions about the position of museums in the 21st century, about identity and power, about permanence and change. Email louise@conferenceaction.com.au Website www.museumsaustralia.org.au/conference2005

2005 FLICKS IN THE STICKS REGIONAL CINEMA FORUM
28 May, Young
Morning: sessions on distribution, projection, funding & resources and travelling picture shows or a 3 hour intensive on business planning. (Some groups may want to send two representatives to take advantage of both options.) Afternoon: (for all participants) two case studies, a risk management assessment tool and a final one hour forum on programming, audience development online and other networking strategies. To join the mailing list for registration Email regional@fto.nsw.gov.au. Contact Jane Cruickshank, Regional Cinema Officer, NSW Film & Television Office, Freecall 1300 556 386 Website www.fto.nsw.gov.au

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Opportunities

ELECTROFRINGE
29 September - 3 October, Newcastle
Electrofringe is a hands-on, all-in new media arts festival dedicated to unearthing emergent forms, highlighting nascent trends and encouraging young and emerging artists to explore technology and its creative possibilities. The directors are seeking expressions of interest from new media artists, curators, artsworkers, writers and producers. 'Australia...where?' is the new Electrofringe 2005 program aimed at stimulating cross-cultural exchange in new media arts between Australia and Asia. 'Australia...where?' is seeking expressions of interest from emerging Australian new media artists with an Asia-Pacific background or interest. Website www.electrofringe.org
Closing 15 April

SCULPTURE BY THE SEA
3 - 20 November, Sydney
Sculpture by the Sea is the largest and most popular sculpture exhibition in Australia, featuring over 100 sculptures in all materials and forms from across the world, set on Sydney's famous Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk. With estimated 400,000 visitors over 3 weeks, the exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for sculptors. Sculpture by the Sea generates substantial sculpture sales and there are artist's prizes, subsidies and material sponsorship in excess of AUD$90,000, including the NSW Ministry for the Arts Regional Artist's Subsidy which last year provided up to $500 for transport and materials to 19 NSW regional artists. Artists are now invited to submit proposals or completed works for pre-selection. Download the form from the website or contact Katy Coote, Exhibition Coordinator Tel 02 9357 1457 Email katy@sculpturebythesea.com Website www.sculpturebythesea.com
Closing 26 April

NATIONAL REVIEW OF SCHOOL MUSIC EDUCATION
Prompted by a report commissioned by the Music Council of Australia, the National Review of School Music Education was officially announced by the Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr. Brendan Nelson, late last year. The report concluded that current systems of music teaching - and obstacles to their improvement - are stymieing potential social and learning benefits for Australian students. Submissions on the status of music in schools are encouraged from every corner of the community - teachers, parents, students, musicians and the wider community are welcomed, to allow the broadest possible insight into school music education. Submissions can be lodged at www.schoolmusicreview.edu.au
Closing 30 April

PLAYWORKS DRAMATURGICAL CONSULTATIONS 2005
Playworks offers high quality dramaturgical consultation to playwrights, performance writers, teams of artists and small theatre companies nationally. We are looking for work with beauty, ambition and imagination. You must be a Playworks Member to apply for programs. As well as the programs listed below, Playworks offers Second Draft consultations at any time throughout the year for experienced women writers with a solid draft they wish to take further.
First Draft: Tailored dramaturgical consultation with experienced theatre professionals.
Rehearsal Draft: Dramaturgy for Imminent Productions. The opportunity to polish your draft for production.
Contact Tel 02 9264 8414 Email info@playworks.org.au
Closing 30 April

RISKY BUSINESS SYMPOSIUM
21 - 22 October, Melbourne
A cross-disciplinary investigation of creative arts as an intervention and diversionary activity for young socially marginalised people in urban and rural communities. The symposium will focus on youth and the arts and the notion of 'risk taking' in arts practice in the institutional and broad community contexts. Themes include:
Youth culture and notions of risk in contemporary society
Intervention or prevention? Arts and socially marginalised youth
Challenges for research with high risk youth: methodological approaches
Social inclusion/exclusion: marginalised youth, arts and community resources
Different art forms and practices, diverse outcomes
The role of the community artist and mentor
Models of effective arts practices
Arts, risk and well-being
Social difference: Gender, sexuality and cultural identity
Inside and Outside: Arts, high risk youth and juvenile justice
Responses sought from a wide range of disciplines. Email an abstract of your proposal (200 words maximum) to Assoc. Prof. Angela O'Brien Email aob@unimelb.edu.au Website www.sca.unimelb.edu.au/riskybusiness/ResearchProject/Symp.htm
Closing 1 May

HISTORY WEEK 2005
17 - 25 September, across NSW
An annual festival of community-based events, showcasing the rich and diverse history initiatives produced by organisations and individuals across NSW. History Week 2005 has the theme 'Transform', highlighting the changing practices of history as well as the changes to environment and society that have taken place during our recorded history. Individuals, community groups, historical societies, local councils, libraries, archives, museums and universities are all encouraged to host events during History Week. Contact Carolyne Carter Tel 02 9252 8715 Email historyweek@historycouncilnsw.org.au Website www.historycouncilnsw.org.au/whats_on_history.html
Closing 27 May

THE UNHINGED 2005 SHORT PLAY FESTIVAL
10 - 13 August
Unhinged, a new theatre-making initiative in the Illawarra, is calling for submissions of short plays, ten minutes or less, from new or existing theatre companies. Writers, directors, actors and technicians from Sydney, the Illawarra and surrounding areas are invited to collaborate on a project which is original and creative. Get a team together and create a show that makes innovative use of this year's unique set piece - a door - and you could be performing as one of ten plays to be chosen for the inaugural season at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre. Contact Katrina Rautenberg Tel 02 4226 4577 Email katrina@relativity.com.au Website www.unhinged.org.au
Closing 17 June

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COMMUNITY CURATOR
Hay, Salary: $43,100 to $47,400 plus super
The Community Curator's role is to advise, assist and train those involved with Hay's five museums, in order to enhance the management, care and interpretation of Hay's heritage and advance the town's cultural, social and economic development. Contact Bob Behl, General Manager, Hay Shire Council Tel 02 6993 1003 Email BBehl@hay.nsw.gov.au Website [PDF] www.hay.nsw.gov.au/Community%20Curator%202005.pdf
Closing 4 April

SUB-EDITOR, THE LAND
North Richmond, up to Grade 4
A rare opportunity at NSW's leading weekly rural newspaper for a full time sub-editor up to Grade 4, to work at its North Richmond head office. Duties will include page layout and design, copy subbing and production responsibilities. Contact Ann Pender Tel 02 4570 4444 Email sec2.theland@ruralpress.com
Closing 7 April

DIRECTOR AND/OR SCRIPTWRITER, INVERELL THEATRE COMPANY
Inverell Theatre Company, in conjunction with North West Theatre Company, is seeking expressions of interests from a person or persons for directing and/or writing a play to be performed during the Tom Roberts Festival to be held in Inverell in April, 2006. The project is for the performance of a play that can be linked in with the period during the 1890s when Tom Roberts painted in the Inverell District and stayed at "Newstead", which was owned by Duncan Anderson. The project will be looking at involving the wider community by the holding of workshops and, if an original play is written, linking the theme of the play to the Inverell District community of the 1890s. Contact Chris Newbigin Tel 6722 1909 Email avern@bigpond.net.au
Closing 15 April

THE GUNNERY STUDIO RESIDENCIES
Grants from the NSW Ministry for the Arts to provide subsidised access to studio facilities at The Gunnery in Sydney for contemporary visual arts and crafts practitioners, and to facilitate professional development opportunities for artists and enable artistic exchanges and interaction. Tel 1800 358 594 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 8 April

AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS - CCD GRANTS
Grants in the categories of Skills and Arts Development, New Work and Fellowships on offer for the last time before the Australia Council implements its restructure - although the applications may not be assessed by members of the CCD Board but by arts peers using published selection criteria. Applicants are advised to consult the Australia Council's website for any changes to this information and to contact the Australia Council to obtain a copy of the six month 2005 handbook before applying.
Freecall 1800 226 912 Email handbook@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au/grantFinder.aspx
Closing 15 April

VOLUNTEER INITIATED MUSEUM GRANT PROGRAM
Do you work with a volunteer managed museum in NSW, and have a new project in mind? Museums & Galleries NSW (MGnsw) operates the VIM Grant Program, which aims to support NSW's diverse volunteer museums. Funding for small projects, longer-term initiatives and skill development in a wide range of areas. On offer now are: Small Grants (up to $1000) and 'Leg-Ups' for skill development and training. Contact Roxanne Fea Tel 02 9339 9905 Email roxannef@mgnsw.org.au
Small Grants closing 15 April
Leg-Ups ongoing

REX CRAMPTON THEATRE SCHOLARSHIP
Offered biennially by the NSW Ministry for the Arts to assist professional theatre artists to further develop their career. Applicants will have completed a body of work that suggests an inquiring mind and an original theatrical voice, and should be able to demonstrate how the proposed program would assist them to develop a vision for future theatre practice. Freecall 1800 358 594 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 21 April

NRMA COMMUNITY ROAD SAFETY GRANTS
Grants of up to $5,000 to assist community organisations address local road safety issues. Offered for behavioural programs or solutions to local road safety problem, for a stand-alone project or to enhance an existing road safety project. Website www.mynrma.com.au/safety_grants
Closing 22 April

THIRNING VILLA ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Performing, visual and literary artists are invited to apply for this Artist-in-Residence program at historic Thirning Villa in Ashfield during the second half of 2005. Accommodation at Thirning Villa plus a weekly allowance is provided in exchange for services provided by the artist. Contact Camille Cavill at Ashfield Council Tel 02 9716 1844 Email camillec@ashfield.nsw.gov.au
Closing 22 April

NSW FTO DIGITAL VISUAL FX SCHEME
The FTO's Digital Visual FX Scheme provides on-the-job skills development opportunities in the digital effects industry. To be eligible you must demonstrate a high level of visual creativity and an active interest in the field of digital visual effects and imaging. Teamwork and good communication skills are absolutely essential. Film and/or television production experience will be considered an advantage. Email dfx@fto.nsw.gov.au Website www.fto.nsw.gov.au
Closing 27 April

NESCAFE BIG BREAK
Cash grants to people aged between 16 and 24 who have a dream or idea and need some financial support to make it a reality. Not an achievement award - anyone can win a Nescafé Big Break. There are no categories and winners can be from any field of endeavour. Open to all permanent residents of Australia and New Zealand who meet the age criteria. Tel 1800 630 630 Website www.nescafebigbreak.com.au/online/index.asp
Closing 29 April

THE IAN POTTER CULTURAL TRUST GRANTS
Grants to promote literature, the visual arts, film, radio, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, music, crafts, video, community arts, the performing arts, design, television and moveable cultural heritage. Grants of up to $5,000 are provided to individuals. Cultural Trust grants assist people to undertake a program of international study, or another form of career development. Tel 03 9650 3188 Email admin@ianpotter.org.au Website www.ianpotter.org.au
Closing 2 May

THE WINDMILL TRUST SCHOLARSHIP
The annual Windmill Trust Scholarship of $5,000 is offered to assist professional visual artists from regional and rural areas of NSW and the ACT, working in the areas of painting, printmaking, drawing, sculpture and photography, to subsidise the cost of mounting an exhibition or undertaking further study. The scholarship provides assistance to artists who have had difficulties caused by living in a regional area and need help to continue their career. Administered by NAVA with the assistance of Museums and Galleries NSW, the Windmill Trust Scholarship has been the trigger for many winners to launch themselves into a new phase of their careers. Tel 02 9368 1900 Email nava@visualarts.net.au Website [PDF] www.visualarts.net.au/nava/forms/WindmillForm2005.pdf
Closing 2 May

IAN POTTER FOUNDATION GRANTS
One of Australia's largest private philanthropic foundations. Aims to provide grants for organisations in Australia in seven main areas: Education, Medical Research, Science, Health, Social Welfare, Arts and Environment and Conservation. Tel 03 9650 3188 Email admin@ianpotter.org.au Website www.ianpotter.org.au
Closing 2 May

NSW FTO INDUSTRY & AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Aims to develop, foster and encourage an innovative and sustainable environment in which film, television and new media content is conceived, developed, produced, distributed, exhibited, broadcast, viewed, discussed and analysed. Initiatives and projects supported under this program fall into two broad categories: Industry development and Audience development. Freecall 1300 556 386 Tel 02 9264 6400 Email fto@fto.nsw.gov.au Website www.fto.nsw.gov.au/fund.asp?id=52&content=2
Closing 6 May

AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS - DANCE BOARD
Grants in the categories of New Work and Presentation & Promotion. Contact the Australia Council to obtain a copy of the six month 2005 handbook before applying. Freecall 1800 226 912 Email handbook@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au/grantFinder.aspx
Closing 15 May

AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS - LITERATURE BOARD
Grants in the category of New Work. Contact the Australia Council to obtain a copy of the six month 2005 handbook before applying. Freecall 1800 226 912 Email handbook@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au/grantFinder.aspx
Closing 15 May

NAVA VISUAL ARTS AND CRAFT ARTISTS' GRANTS
Assistance towards the costs of public presentation of visual arts, craft and design. Up to $500 for individual applicants and up to $1000 for a group. Tel 02 9368 1900 Email nava@visualarts.net.au Website [PDF] http://www.visualarts.net.au/nava/forms/VCAGSfm.pdf
Closing 15 May

NSW MINISTRY FOR THE ARTS' CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM - MUSIC (PROJECTS)
Supporting the appreciation and development of music in New South Wales across all genres of new, classical, popular and independent music. The Peer Group Committee encourages applications that involve creative collaborations, new technologies, and advances in music presentation and performance. Freecall 1800 358 594 Tel 02 9228 5533 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au/Guidelines/Grants/Music/music.htm
Closing 20 May

NSW MINISTRY FOR THE ARTS' CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM - MUSEUMS (PROJECTS)
Aiming to stimulate the development of museums in New South Wales by providing assistance for activities which lead to higher standards of practice and greater service to the community. Museums may apply for project funding in more than one of the categories below, but funding of all projects is not guaranteed. Applications for amounts under $5,000 will not be considered. Freecall 1800 358 594 Tel 02 9228 5533 Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au/Guidelines/Grants/Museums/museums.htm
Closing 27 May

AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS - MUSIC BOARD
Grants in the categories of Key Organisations, Key Organisations (Triennial Grants), New Work, Presentation and Promotion and Skills and Arts Development. Contact the Australia Council to obtain a copy of the six month 2005 handbook before applying. Freecall 1800 226 912 Email handbook@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au/grantFinder.aspx
Closing 1 June

AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS - THEATRE BOARD
Grants in the categories of New Work and Skills and Arts Development. Contact the Australia Council to obtain a copy of the six month 2005 handbook before applying. Freecall 1800 226 912 Email handbook@ozco.gov.au Website www.ozco.gov.au/grantFinder.aspx
Closing 1 June

NAVA FREEDMAN FOUNDATION TRAVELLING SCHOLARSHIP FOR EMERGING ARTISTS
This Scholarship provides assistance towards the travelling (for educational purposes) and/or tuition costs of young people embarking on a career in the visual arts broadly in the areas of painting, photography or sculpture. Overseas travel (preferably for the first time) to undertake formal study, a residency or a planned program with a professional artist or mentor will be considered, as will informal study for a planned research project. Up to four scholarships of $5,000 for overseas educational travel. Tel 02 9368 1900 Email nava@visualarts.net.au Website [PDF] www.visualarts.net.au/nava/forms/FreedmanForm2005.pdf
Closing 2 June

NSW MINISTRY FOR THE ARTS CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM - THEATRE (PROJECTS)
To encourage the appreciation and development of theatre in New South Wales through support for a wide range of theatre practice. Overview: Funding is available to eligible organisations for the creation of new work in a range of theatre practices. This category supports one-off projects and is available for all aspects of the creative process. Freecall 1809 358 594 Tel 02 9228 5533 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 3 June

NSW MINISTRY FOR THE ARTS CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM - DANCE (PROJECTS)
The purpose of this grant is to encourage the appreciation and development of dance in New South Wales through support for a wide range of dance and movement practice. Funding is available to eligible organisations for the creation of new work in a range of dance practices. Applicants should discuss their auspicing arrangements with the Ministry's Dance Program staff before submitting an application. Freecall 1800 358 594 Tel 02 9228 5533 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 3 June

NSW MINISTRY FOR THE ARTS CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM - THEATRE (STRATEGIC INITIATIVES)
Funding is available to eligible organisations for new strategic initiatives which have demonstrable long-term outcomes for the development of the arts industry in New South Wales. A maximum of up to $40,000 per annum will be granted. Priority will be given to initiatives in the following areas:
audience development
business development
employment opportunities
new technology applications
national or international partnerships.
Freecall 1809 358 594 Tel 02 9228 5533 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au
Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 3 June

NSW MFA CULTURAL GRANTS PROGRAM - DANCE (STRATEGIC INITIATIVES)
The purpose of this grant is to encourage the appreciation and development of dance in New South Wales through support for a wide range of dance and movement practice. Eligible organisations may apply for funding for new strategic initiatives which have demonstrable long-term outcomes for the development of the arts industry in New South Wales. A maximum of up to $40,000 per annum will be granted. Freecall 1800 358 594 Tel 02 9228 5533 Email ministry@arts.nsw.gov.au Website www.arts.nsw.gov.au
Closing 3 June

ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS' DISCRETIONARY GRANT
Grants to implement innovative programs that give Aboriginal people the capacity to take advantage of economic, social and cultural opportunities. The maximum amount for a Discretionary Grant is $4,000. Grant priorities are young Aboriginal people, economic development and the prevention of domestic and family violence. Tel 02 9290 8700 Email enquiries@daa.nsw.gov.au Website www.daa.nsw.gov.au/grants/discretionary.html
No Closing Date

CAPTURE CAMERA PHONE PHOTOGRAPHY AWARD - HURRY! CLOSING SOON
Camera phone owners from around Australia are invited to submit images for this public exhibition. With the advent of the camera phone a growing number of people have become 'mobile photographers', capturing, storing and sending images. What are people capturing on their camera phones and what impact will this form of technology have on art and photography? Contact Email info@blankspace.com.au Website www.captureexhibition.com/capture/index.cfm
Closing 3 April

LONG HOT SUMMER DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION - HURRY! CLOSING SOON
The competition is open to three categories - Young people (17 years and under), Open (ages 18 - 54) and Seniors (55years+). Three first prizes of digital cameras will be awarded, with 100 highly commended letters. Tel 1800 282 679 Website www.ctcnsw.net.au/photocomp
Closing 4 April

ROCK UP 2005 - BATTLE OF THE BANDS
April - June, Orange
A regional band competition with heats to be held in both Bathurst and Orange. Headlining bands will play at the finals.
14 April - Heat 1
28 April - Heat 2
12 May - Town Final
2 June - Regional Final
At the Orange Ex-Services Club. Contact Jason Lowe Tel 6393 8628 Email jlowe@orange.nsw.gov.au

ART ON THE ROCKS 2005
28 - 29 May, Sydney
A project involving painting in public open spaces. Selected artists will be invited to participate in a unique weekend of public drawing and painting in The Rocks outdoor spaces on the weekend of 28 - 29 May. Artists then have until Friday 10 June to complete their paintings before they are hung in a public exhibition at the Sydney Visitor Centre, The Rocks from 17 June to 3 July 2005. Prizes include the $20,000 acquisitive Art on the Rocks Prize and a total of $35, 000, with the award winning work to be included in the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority's collection. Contact Sonia Tsai Tel 02 9240 8874 Email sonia.tsai@shfa.nsw.gov.au
Closing 13 April

BUILT ENVIRONMENTS OF THE MID WEST EXHIBITION
22 April - 2 May, Mudgee
For generations, artists have been tempted by the shapes, colours and textures of country and urban edifices and streetscapes, man-made industrial and agricultural structures and indeed the whole concept of a built environment. We can influence and interact with our built environment through a medium - in this case painting or photography. Total prize money is $800. Works will be exhibited at the Mudgee Community Centre. Tel 02 6373 7648 or 02 6372 2339.
Closing 18 April

AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS ARTS FOUNDATION (AbaF) AWARDS
Nominations are now open for AbaF Awards, honouring Australia's relationships between the private sector and the arts. Various awards recognise achievements in the categories covering partnerships, volunteering, philanthropy and leadership. Tel 02 9215 9313 Website www.abaf.org.au/public/awd/awd_idx.html
Closing 22 April

BBC INTERNATIONAL RADIO PLAYWRIGHTING COMPETITION
The ninth biennial International Playwriting Competition is run by the BBC World Service Drama with the British Council. The competition is designed to unearth undiscovered radio drama writing talent from around the world. Previous winners have gone on to gain further commissions for BBC World Service Drama and in other areas of BBC Radio Drama. Prize £2500 and a trip to London to see your play being recorded for the BBC. Email your play directly to the BBC. Email intradioplaycomp@bbc.co.uk Website http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1348_playwritingcomp/index.shtml
Closing 30 April

FRESH EMERGING ARTISTS' EXHIBITION
The Print Council of Australia will award $1,000 to an artist to assist them in the development of their visual arts practice. The winning artist will be selected from this year's Emerging Artists' Exhibition, FRESH at the 10th Anniversary Sydney Art on Paper Fair (SAPF), 28 July to 31 July. SAPF is a biennial international art fair. It is the only art fair specialising in and promoting works on paper in the South East Asia and Pacific regions. Website www.sydneyartonpaperfair.com.au
Closing 27 May

2005 NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHIC PURCHASE AWARD
3 August - 4 September, Albury
The National Photographic Purchase Award was first held in 1983 and is now the oldest such event in Australia. Entries now sought for the 2005 exhibition to be held at Albury Regional Art Gallery. Purchases to the value of $15,000 will be made for the Gallery's Collection. The chair of the selection jury is Naomi Cass, Director, Centre for Contemporary Photography. All still photographic media is acceptable, including digital. Website www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au/galllery
Closing 27 May

THE AUSTRALIAN / VOGEL LITERARY AWARD
The Vogel is one of the richest awards in Australia for an unpublished manuscript, offering a prize of $20,000 in addition to normal royalties from sales. It is being offered for the twenty-fifth successive year and is for writers under the age of 35. The winning entry will be published by Allen & Unwin Book Publishers. Website www.allenandunwin.com/vogel/current.asp
Closing 31 May

COUNTRY ENERGY ART PRIZE
Now in its third year, the $35,000 Country Energy Art Prize is equivalent in prize money to the esteemed Archibald Prize for Portrait Painting and more than double the Wynne Prize for Landscape Painting. Entry to the prize is open to artists whose principal place of residence is within Country Energy or Australian Inland's network areas. Entry forms are available at all Country Energy customer service centres and regional art galleries or Tel 13 23 56 or 02 8255 6779 Website www.countryenergy.com.au/artprize
Closing 22 July

BRUCE DAWE NATIONAL POETRY PRIZE
The Prize has been endowed by Bruce Dawe, one of Australia's best-loved and most widely read poets, as an annual $1,500 award to encourage poets throughout Australia. It is hoped that this prize will support poets and help recognise the important contribution they make to Australian culture. Tel 07 4631 1065 Website www.usq.edu.au/daweprize
Closing 31 July

FREE ONLINE MARKETING EXPERTISE FOR VISUAL ARTS AND CRAFT ARTISTS
A new website which allows busy visual arts and craft practitioners to spend more time making rather than marketing their work. FUEL4ARTISTS plugs individual artists into free, easy to access arts-specific marketing expertise and practical resources from around the world, to promote their work and build audiences. There are tools and ideas for artists to get their work out there and increase the likelihood of success, plus a huge international member community of more than 3935 visual art and craft practitioners to overcome their sense of isolation. Website www.fuel4arts.com/artists.

JAM - THE DO-IT-YOURSELF WEBSITE FOR NSW FOLKIES
A fantastic new community website that allows members to easily publish their own material under the different sections - Events, Venues/Clubs, Dance, Artists, Articles (including reviews), Folk Mart, JAM Talk, Links and more. Introduce yourself, promote your club, promote your event, find an artist to play with, share information, find a teacher, etc, etc. You have to be a member of the Folk Federation of NSW to publish material, but it's free to browse. Contact Wayne Richmond Mobile 0400 803 804 Email wayne@humph.org Website www.jam.org.au.

2005 PRODUCTION SCHEDULE
The Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin is published on the 1st day of every month (or next business day), with a deadline for contributions of seven days before the end of the month. The deadline for contributions to the 2 May E-Bulletin is Monday 25 April.

NO REPEATS! (BUT EVERYTHING IS ARCHIVED ONLINE)
The Regional Arts NSW e-Bulletin contains no repeat listings but there are usually lots of other opportunities, grants and/or prizes still available from previous editions which you can access on the archive here.

CONTRIBUTIONS
Regional Arts NSW is pleased to be able to include any suitable listing in the e-Bulletin. To have your event, prize, news or other relevant item included, please email an appropriately worded listing to the editor, Rachael Vincent Email rachael@regionalartsnsw.com.au by Monday 25 April (but please note we can not guarantee inclusion).

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS
To subscribe to (or to un-subscribe from) this *FREE!* bulletin, go to www.regionalartsnsw.com.au and follow the link to the e-Bulletin subscriptions form from the front page.

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

Regional Arts NSW receives funding from the Regional Arts Fund, an Australian Government initiative supporting the arts in regional and remote Australia and the NSW Ministry for the Arts.