RANSW e-Bulletin 2-5-05

This month's issue is bursting with 73 news stories, highlights of regional arts events, seminars, training and other events and listings of grants, prizes 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'

SHEARERS - SCENES AROUND THE SHEDS
5 May - 5 June, Wagga Wagga
Shearing ... a quintessential part of Australia's colonial heritage and the mythology of the bush. In this unique exhibition at the Museum of the Riverina, photojournalist and documentary photographer, Andrew Chapman, provides an authentic insight of rural life. Shot in dry and dusty conditions in the back blocks of New South Wales, Shearers features 40 black and white photographs that reflect a deep respect for the history and craft of shearing. "Shearing must be the most labour intensive, hot, dusty, sweaty, backbreaking work a person can do," says Chapman. "It takes a special sort of person to be a shearer - the love of a knockabout lifestyle, working a full eight hours labour in rudimentary sheds where the mercury can creep into the mid to high 40's ... as hard as a hard day's work you can get." Contact Tel 02 6926 9654 Website www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/museum

A RIVER OF ART - FESTIVAL OF THEATRE, ART, FILM & MUSIC
19 May - 4 June, Moruya
Two weeks of live music, theatre, international film, exhibitions, performance poetry and outdoor sculpture in the South East town of Moruya. The program features two performances of Verity Laughton's The Lightkeeper by Mainstreet Theatre Company, a number of exhibitions of paintings, ceramics, photographs and textiles by local artists, performances by the Eric Ajaye Trio, the Carl Dewhurst Quartet and leading jazz/blues singer, Jan Preston; and includes a Hands On Art Day and an Arts as Business Forum on 19 May (see below). For more information or to be sent a brochure, contact Penny Bonnell, Cultural Officer, South East Arts Region Tel 02 4474 1088 Email pbonnell@sear.org.au

THE TEN MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL
21 & 22 and 28 & 29 May, Wagga Wagga
Two weekends of comedy, drama ... and mayhem! The brainchild of the Artistic Director, Nic Clark, the Ten Minute Play Festival is the result of a new initiative by the Riverina Theatre Company to nurture emerging regional playwrighting talent. Featuring new comedy and drama works by nine local writers, the Festival promises to be the talk of the town with a line up of "some of the wackiest, adrenaline pumping action packed ten minutes of all time." It's a unique opportunity to see a wide range of works from across the region, all professional produced for the Riverina Playhouse stage. Contact Tel 02 6931 9466 Email info@riverinatheatrecompany.com.au
Website www.riverinatheatrecompany.com.au

THE BALD ARCHY PRIZE
4 - 29 May, Sydney
When the annual Archibald Prize comes around, the irreverent Bald Archys are never far behind. Sure enough, this year's winner of the "event that arts snobs love to hate" will be announced on the 4 May, just a few days after the Archibald. After a leave of absence in 2004 due to renovations at Customs House, the infamous exhibition is back in town at another prestigious Sydney location, the Queen Victoria Building. Forty original look-alikes of prominent Australians will be on view daily in The Victoria Room on Level 3 (at the Town Hall End) of the QVB. Subjects include Clover Moore, Robert Hughes, a pox of politicians, Darren 'Boof' Lehmann, Russell Coight, Jennifer Hawkins, Barry Humphries, and even Crown Princess Mary. Brought to you by the Coolac Festival of Fun. Contact Peter Batey Tel 02 6945 3240 Mob 0439 672 213

Grrrrrr! The 2005 Biting Dog Theatre Festival image

THE 2005 BITING DOG THEATRE FESTIVAL - GRRRRRR!!!!!!!
25 May - 3 June, Albury Wodonga
The enormously successful Biting Dog Theatre Festival is back for its 8th bite. Each night, audiences are treated to three new, completely different, 20 minute performances by young artists from schools and youth theatres in the region, all based on the same 'neutral' script. With only minimal guidelines and hints provided, the performances are built based on characters, concerns and styles of the young artists' own choosing ... and the surprises are endless. A panel of professionals give feedback at the end of each night and there's a series of technical traineeships in the background. Festival Director: Campion Decent. Script: Chris Thompson. Presented by HotHouse Theatre at the Butter Factory Theatre $15/$7 Tel 02 6021 7433 Website www.hothousetheatre.com.au

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CULTURAL AWARDS TO BE ANNOUNCED ON 6 MAY
The 2005 Local Government Cultural Awards will be announced at a ceremony at Parliament House on 6 May. Sixty eight entries have been short listed for the awards, which recognise best practise management and innovation in cultural development by NSW councils. The Local Government and Shires Associations report a high calibre of entries for 2005, with a number of regional councils on the shortlist, including Albury, Bathurst, Broken Hill, Clarence Valley, Coolamon, Cootamundra, Cowra, Great Lakes, Griffith, Gunnedah, Hastings, Kempsey, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Orange, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Tweed, Wagga Wagga and Wollongong. For more information contact Michelle Hall Email michelle.hall@lgsa.org.au Website www.lgsa.org.au

REGIONAL ARTS AUSTRALIA COMMUNITY CONSULTATIONS
16 May, Gunnedah
Regional Arts Australia is conducting a series of national community consultations to look the priorities for the future of regional and remote Australian communities and find out what needs to happen for the arts to play a significant role in building happier and healthier communities in regional and rural Australia. The ideas from a range of communities - large and small, land bound and coastal, regional centres and isolated villages - will be brought together by Regional Arts Australia to create a vision for a vibrant arts and cultural environment in regional Australia in the future and to help develop strategic directions for the organisation over the next three years. The first consultation for New South Wales will be held at the Civic Theatre in Gunnedah, in the North West on 16 May from 1:00pm to 5:00pm and will be attended by the Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the National Party, the Hon Mr John Anderson, MP. All interested members of the community are invited to attend. Contact Arts North West Tel 02 6732 4988 Email artsnw@northnet.com.au.

"HOW ARE WE GOING? DIRECTIONS FOR THE ARTS IN THE CREATIVE AGE" - A FORUM
4 August, Byron Bay
Regional Arts NSW is delighted to announce its second forum for arts and policy workers, researchers, arts advocates and other specialists at the Byron Bay Writers Festival this August. All over the world, the arts are making a case for their social importance and economic value in this new-post-industrial,information-driven,global-marketplace-age. But does the evidence support the claims? And which policies and what infrastructure will support cultural development in this “Creative Age”?
“How are we going?” will be a day of enjoyable, stimulating and productive overview and discussion on these and other topics led by Professor David Throsby, with a line-up of high calibre Australian and international speakers. Find out more here.

NSW STATE CULTURAL CONFERENCE
2 & 3 September 2005, Sydney
This September, Regional Arts NSW, Museums & Galleries NSW and CCD NSW present INSP!RE - a conference on Future Mapping, Skills Development, and Critical Debate, in Sydney. INSP!RE will be a a thought-provoking future ideas fest for all arts and cultural workers and volunteers, artists, community leaders, local and State government policy makers, and planners - indeed, anyone involved or interested in the arts and cultural industries. With a fantastic line-up of international and national speakers and a wide-ranging program, INSP!RE will be a brilliant opportunity to gain knowledge and new insights and a chance to network with professionals across three peak oganisations. Affordable 'Early Bird' packages, including special rates for volunteers, now available. Find out more on our website [here].

REGIONAL NSW ARTISTS WIN NAVA GRANTS
Hunter artists Isabela Pluta, Martin Wilson, Neal Smith and Naomi Sands have been awarded one of ten Marketing Grants for NSW Artists from the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA). Their exhibition, 'Such an ordinary thing,' which was developed in partnership with Rocketart - an artist run initiative based in Newcastle NSW - will be shown initially at Tin Sheds Gallery, Sydney, and will tour to a number of regional venues nationally. In other NAVA administered grants, Stephanie Monteith, Scarborough, NSW, received a Visual Arts and Craft Grant for her exhibition at the Wollongong City Gallery, the culmination of her studio residency at the Gallery. Contact NAVA Tel 02 9368 1900 Email nava@visualarts.net.au Website www.visualarts.net.au

ARTS OUTWEST'S NEW BOARD & NEW STRATEGIC PLAN
At its recent Annual General Meeting in Orange the Regional Arts Board for the Central West region, Arts OutWest, elected a new Board and endorsed a new three-year strategic plan. The 2005-2007 plan includes strategies to supporting cultural tourism and the stronger marketing of the region's artists and commits the organisation to further support for Indigenous artists and artists with disabilities. Arts OutWest has also signed off on significant constitutional change which will make it possible to establish a Public Fund to receive tax-deductible donations to support arts projects in the region.
Arts OutWest services eleven local government areas and is one of thirteen Regional Arts Boards in New South Wales. For more information contact Hannah Semler, RADO Tel 02 6338 4657 Website www.artsoutwest.org.au.

ALBURY REGIONAL GALLERY DIRECTOR, AUDRAY BANFIELD, RETIRES

AlburyCity's long-serving and much admired regional art gallery director, Audray Banfield, has announced she will retire this August after 25 years. Albury gallery is known nationally for its photographic collection, its Russell Drysdale collection, the Daniel Gift, and a diverse collection of other works developed over 50 years. "Audray played a key role in developing strong networks with the local and national arts communities, which has helped bring greater stability and co-operation in this area," said AlburyCity Mayor, Arthur Frauenfelder. Ms Banfield, received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from Charles Sturt University in 2001. Contact Albury Regional Art Gallery Tel 02 6051 3480 Website www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au/gallery/

NEW ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER FOR ARTS NORTHERN RIVERS
Wendy Rolls is the new Administrative Officer for Arts Northern Rivers. Wendy has been a practising visual artist for twenty years. She has an Associate Diploma in Art (Ceramics) from Lismore TAFE and a Bachelor of Visual Arts with Honours from Southern Cross University and recently augmented her extensive experience in public relations, marketing and administration with a Small Business Management course. A prize-winning sculptor, with work at Thursday Plantation Sculpture Park, Wendy will be handling enquiries, the newsletter, resources and general information. Contact Wendy Tel 02 6628 8120

REGIONAL NSW ARTISTS AND ARTS WORKERS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN RESEARCH
Researcher Carey Lai has been awarded a CCDB Fellowship from the Australia Council for the Arts and to research how we can better support artists working in Community Cultural Development. Australian artists are invited to get involved by participating in a simple online survey at http://isisproductions.com.au/

SOMETHING FROM NOTHING - REFILLING THE SPACE 2005
Until 15 May, Gloucester
The Gloucester Arts and Cultural Council hosted two visiting artists to conduct an installation sculpture event at the Gloucester Gallery over the long weekend in April. Visiting artists, Stephen Killick and Jo Davidson worked with local artists/practitioners in the gallery over the weekend and transformed piles of cardboard and plastic bottles into 3D forms using only hot glue and pop rivets. A truly unique and unsual exhibition. Contact Tel 02 6558 9294 or 0428 589 294
Made possible with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program (funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Ministry for the Arts).

COME TO THE KASBAH! TEXTILE EXTRAVAGANZA
Until 29 May, Gilgandra
A rich and luscious display of textile works by Australian Textile Art and Surface Design Association members and local and regional artists. Responding to the 'Come to the Kasbah' theme, the artists have gone wild with rich colours, lavish fabrics and opulent embellishments. There will be a tent installation of sumptuous cushions, luxurious fabrics, bazaar bras and tasselts. All in all an exotic and delightful exhibition. At the Cooee Heritage Centre, Newell Highway Gilgandra. Tel 6847 2045

BROTHER - A BIG SLICE OF JOY
5 & 6 May, Candelo and Milton
Fusing their signature vocals to the deep pulse of the didgeridoo and the soaring highs of bagpipes, LA-based Aussie trio Brother blend rock, folk, dance and tribal rhythms in a charismatic live show that's become a cult favourite in the US. Live magazine (US) said, 'Go and get hit over the head with this music - there's just nothing else like it.' $15/$10 All ages. 5 May presented by the Candelo Arts Society at the Candelo Town Hall, Tickets at Magpie Music Tel 02 6492 3533. 6 May at Milton Theatre Tickets at Malibu Music, Ulladulla Tel 02 4455 5693 or Country Leather, Milton Tel 4455 3060. Website www.brothermusic.com

STRANGE MEMORIES - ARTIST'S BOOK
5 - 18 May, Nowra
'Strange Memories: It's Only Forever...', is a book of narrative landscape paintings and drawings by Shoalhaven artist, Anna Glynn. The book is the result of an Artist in Residence program at a homestead which turned out to be directly across the river from the farm where Anna grew up. An emotional journey followed - both magical and nostalgic - creating a special body of work. A 12-metre panoramic lounge window overlooking the place of her childhood became the studio and doorway to Anna's wonderful story - her "strange memories." At the Shoalhaven City Arts Centre Tel 02 4448 6164. Launch on Saturday 7 May from 12 to 2pm. Contact Tracey Glenn Tel 02 4422 0648 for RSVP's to the launch by 5 May.

BOORANGA WRITERS' CENTRE WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE, GEOFF PAGE
6, 7, 10 May 2005
Booranga Writers’ Centre is delighted to be hosting Geoff Page as its current writer-in-residence. Page is an esteemed and awarded writer and poet with an international profile.He has published sixteen collections of poetry as well as two novels, two verse novels and several other works including anthologies, translations and a biography of the jazz musician, Bernie McGann. Page has won several major awards, and has read his work and talked on Australian poetry in Europe and the USA. Page will be participating in a number of events and activities around the Riverina during his residency including the following public programs. Contact The Booranga Writers’ Centre Tel 02 69 332 688

A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO BOB DYLAN
8 May, Woy Woy
Punters are invited to bring their mothers, grandmothers and/or wives to the Peninsula Theatre this Mother's Day for a an afternoon of music, fun and frivolity. Special guests: Duncan Chalmers; Jason & Chloe Roweth; Chris Fraser; Earlwood Greg and The "other" Band, for an afternoon of nothing else but songs recorded by Bob Dylan or The Band. You'll hear many well known Dylan songs and some rare ones in an unforgettable (for the right and the wrong reasons) afternoon of music. Contact Peninsula Music Tel 02 4342 9099

QUARTET - AGE LINK REMINISCENCE THEATRE
12 May, Finley
Quartet tells the tale of four retired opera singers; all relegated to a nursing home. Each year on the anniversary of Verdi's birthday, they perform a concert for all the residents; complete with all the drama of the opera itself. Presented by South West Arts in partnership with Southern Riverina Arts. Finley High School. Contact South West Arts Tel 02 6993 2010

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE THEMED BUSH DANCE
14 May, East Gosford
If you're bored with other dances because they're not challenging enough, then this is for you. This night will demonstrate why Scottish Country Dancing is so popular around the world and why there are so many people still participating after so many years, regardless of their age. No experience, nor a partner is necessary. East Gosford Progress Hall. Tel 02 4342 9099 or 02 4325 7369 Web www.ccbdma.org

SHAKESPEARE ON AVON FESTIVAL
13 - 14 May, Gloucester
Three performances of the time-honoured comedy Much Ado About Nothing by the award winning Shakespeare et al. A two course feast with a licensed bar where patrons are encouraged to wear Elizabethan attire (prizes for the best outfits). A 'Village Fair' on Saturday at Farley Gates Oval with rides, stalls and entertainment including two performances by GACCI, the local Gloucester Players at noon & 4.30pm. Bookings advised. Contact Visitor Information Centre Tel 02 6558 1408 Email information@gloucester.nsw.gov.au. Stall enquiries for the Village Fair Tel 02 6558 9554 Email shirley.smith@tsn.cc

THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE BABIES PROMS
17 May, Hay
18 May, Barham
19 May, Deniliquin
20 May, Jerilderie
With an oink, moo, baa and quack, a day on the farm is brought vividly to life in this dynamic musical hoedown adventure. The Babies Proms is alive to the sounds of farmyard animals in a truly interactive experience where children are encouraged to listen, move and respond to music in an informal setting. With a professional chamber orchestra and conductor, Babies Proms is the best way to introduce children to the joy of live music. Sponsored by Country Energy. Cost: $5. Ages 0 to 12 years. Contact Tel 02 6993 2010 .

MUSAEUS PRESENTS MUSICAL THEATRE
21 & 22 May, Cootamundra Town Hall
19 June, Illawarra Music Club
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. Contact Sean Mob 0410 636 202 or Julie Mob 0402 722 804

GOLDEN THREADS: THE CHINESE IN REGIONAL NSW 1850-1950
Until 22 May, Albury
This fascinating travelling exhibition from the New England Regional Art Museum explores the important role that Chinese-Australians have played in Australia's national heritage. The exhibition is organised around the five themes of Work, Leisure, Food and Dress, Beliefs, Leaving and Staying and includes some wonderful photographs of Chinese-Australian life in the country. Albury Regional Museum Tel 02 6051 3450 Websites www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au or http://amol.org.au/goldenthreads
Picture: Trevor Jack and Albert Yum, who worked at the Hong Yuen store in Inverell during the 1930s.

GRAFTON REGIONAL GALLERY - FOUR NEW EXHIBITIONS
25 May - 3 July
Spirit of the Valley, curated by Frances Belle Parker - acollection of works inspired by the natural essence of the Clarence Valley by Indigenous Artists.
Australian Aboriginals, the John William Lindt Collection - thirty one images of Aboriginal people of the Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung Nations taken in Grafton in the 1870's.
Carizma, curated by Dave Funnell - a fantastic fun exhibition all about cars, and the artists that respond to them.
The Postcard Show - a major fundraising exhibition offers postcard - sized artworks from local and national artists, for sale through a silent auction.
Contact Grafton Regional Gallery Tel 02 6642 3177 Email mail@graftongallery.nsw.gov.au

THE LAST FIVE YEARS, A TOURING PRODUCTION BY RAILWAY STREET
28 May, Warren
The Warren Arts Council invites you to come along to the historic Nevertire Hall and enjoy this smash hit musical from the Railway Street Theatre Company. Funny, up-lifting, compelling ... so much more than an award winning love story. Bring some friends and relax with champagne on arrival in this atmospheric country hall. Full bar and nibbles available $25/$20/$15. Contact Audrey Weston Tel 02 6847 3136 Email nihillgully@bigpond.com

THE LIGHTKEEPER
28 May - 3 June, South West region
A poignant new touring production by Main Street Theatre Company from Mount Gambier, South Australia. The Lightkeeper explores tales of isolation - a relevant theme for local audiences. A show not to be missed! Contact South West Arts Tel 02 6993 2010.

STEPHEN ROGERS: LOOSE ARRANGEMENTS
28 May - 16 June, Bathurst
An exhibition of original artworks and photography by Stephen Rogers. The Sydney-based artist returns to his birth place to present his latest works. His modern paintings, mixed media works and photographs, explore the human form in a loose, expressive and graphic style. Warpstanza Gallery, Bathurst. Contact Ross McDonald Tel 02 6332 3080

HIGH COUNTRY NIGHT
4 June, Oberon
Oberon Art's Council's High Country Night. Featuring, by popular demand, Celtic & Country Band, The Mothers Of Intention and Jack Sammon with bush ballads. Dress up or dress down in country style. Cost: $45, including country dinner. Oberon RSL Auditorium. Contact Raine & Horne Oberon Tel 02 6336 1109

YOUNG DRUMS PERCUSSION ORCHESTRA
2 - 13 May, Lismore
A two week World Rhythm workshop program with experimental instrument designer and builder, Steve Langton. The workshops will run weekdays from 5pm to 8pm, firstly creating new instruments from items such as old Mag wheels, recycled swimming pool filters and aluminium planks, then learning to play along with a range of exotic world percussion instruments. This unique work will culminate in a major performance to be held at Heritage Park in Lismore on Saturday 14th May (weather permitting) or alternative venue, the Star Court Theatre.All community members are invited to the workshops and the performance. Contact Peter Jaggle Tel 02 6621 4888 Email youngdrums@austarnet.com.au.
Made possible with a grant from the Australian Government's Regional Arts Fund, through Regional Arts NSW.

WAGADYI - INDIGENOUS YOUTH DANCE WORKSHOPS
4 - 5 May, Cowra
Reconnect Central West is proudly sponsoring a series of Indigenous dance workshops for Indigenous young people (12 -18 years) to be facilitated by two performers from one of Australia's leading Aboriginal dance companies - the Descendance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dance Theatre. Workshops in traditional, contemporary and funk styles of dance offer a unique opportunity for Indigenous young people to continue to express and explore their Aboriginal heritage and culture through the creative and expressive arts. Cowra High School. Following the workshops our participants will be invited to take part in a series of professional performances (held at local venues) during 27th - 30th June 2005 for NAIDOC week. Contact Tel 02 6341 2657
Made possible with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program (funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Ministry for the Arts).

BUMS ON SEATS - COMMUNITY PRESENTER GROUPS WORKSHOP
7 May, Dubbo
Orana Arts and Arts On Tour bring some of the best talent in the touring performing arts sector to a workshop at Dubbo vineyard, Lazy River Estate. The workshop is the first of its kind for the region, and will provide community presenter groups with the opportunity to learn and network with producers, directors and publicists from production companies such as Railway Street Theatre Company and Monkey Baa Productions, as well as other organisations such as the Australian Film and Television Office, Arts on Tour and insurers, Community Care Underwriting Agency. Contact Merryn Spencer Tel 02 6847 0559 Mob 0427 777 586

MURAL-MAKING WORKSHOPS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE - FREE!
Wednesdays from 11 May, Byron Bay
Byron Youth Service is looking for young people to help create a large scale mosaic for the entrance way to the youth service. Sean Kay, a local indigenous artist, will help the group design the work that will reflect local culture and environment. The free workshops start on the 11th May and will run every Wednesday from 3.30 - 6.30pm at Byron Youth Centre. The mosaic will be launched as part of local NAIDOC week celebrations. All materials and afternoon tea will be provided. Contact Tanya Brukhardt Tel 02 6685 7777
Made possible with a grant from the Regional Arts NSW Country Arts Support Program (funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Ministry for the Arts), Wilson's Tiles and the Arakwal Corporation.

ARTSWORKER AS ACTIVIST + LEADER
11 May, Liverpool
Presented by CCDNSW, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, and Liverpool City Council, this forum acknowledges the dual role of artsworker as activists and leaders in the course of their everyday work. Including a panel discussion and opportunities to engage in critical debate, with the following speakers: Maya Jupiter, Jill Hickson, Tanya Ellis, Mary Dimech, Garry Jones, Deborah Kelly and Frank Panucci. Liverpool Regional Museum. Cost: Free, with refreshments provided. Contact Vandana Ram, CCDNSW Tel 02 9764 6588 ext 4 Email vandana@ccdnsw.org
Bookings closing 5 May

SOUTHERN RIVERINA ARTS - POTTERY WORKSHOPS
28 - 29 May, Finley
The recently re-formed Arts Council in Tocumwal is scheduling a variety of workshops this year. Pottery is the first cab off the rank, with silversmithing to come during June. Finley TAFE. Contact Sonya Dalgliesh Tel 03 5874 3166

FIGUREHEADS ON THE AUSTRALIAN STATION
16 May, Dubbo
Lecture presented by the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society.
Contact Robert North Tel 02 6882 5107

ARTS AS BUSINESS FORUM
19 May, Moruya
A forum which will address the question, "What can the arts do to contribute to business and economic development in this region?". For artists, arts businesses, planners and policy makers in the South East region. Contact Penny Bonnell, Cultural Officer, South East Arts Region Tel 02 4474 1088.

'ENRICHMENT STUDIES' WEEKEND FOR YOUTH
4 - 5 June Wagga Wagga
Are you aged between 8 & 15 years? Interested in acting? Filmmaking? Art? Music? Cartooning? Literature? Robotics?! Meeting like-minded people? Learning something new? Why not enrol in CSU's 'Enrichment Studies' Weekend and learn in a fun and educational environment from professional tutors. Tutors and workshops have been confirmed with over 15 workshops on offer at the CSU Wagga Wagga Campus. Contact Linda Tillman Tel 02 6933 2064 Email ltillman@csu.edu.au Website www.csu.edu.au/student/community-ed

NATIONAL PLAYWRIGHTS' CONFERENCE
19 June - 3 July, Newcastle
This key event for Australia's theatre community brings together playwrights, directors, dramaturges and actors from across the country to workshop, debate, present and perform. Presented for the first time in its 30 year history in a regional Australian location. Masterclasses, mentoring opportunities and special events are open to the general public. Contact the Australian National Playwrights' Centre Tel 02 9555 9377 Email info@anpc.org.au Website www.anpc.org.au

MURRUMBIDGEE SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS
3 - 8 July, Wagga Wagga
Enrolments are now open for the week long intensive art/artcraft workshops held at CSU Wagga Wagga Campus. The program is designed to develop skills in the fields of beading; drawing; jewellery; metalwork; millinery; mosaics; papermaking; painting; photography; stonecarving and textiles. Contact Linda Tillman Tel 02 6933 2064 Email ltillman@csu.edu.au Website www.csu.edu.au/student/community-ed

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Opportunities

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY 2005, MUSEUMS BRIDGING CULTURES
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) invites museums all over the world to celebrate International Museum Day (IMD) on 18 May. This year's theme is Museums Bridging Cultures, paying tribute to cultural diversity and to encourage museums in their role of spanning various ethnic, religious and national divides. MGnsw is interested in receiving any information about events and activities that your museum or gallery is holding in celebration of IMD. Contact MGnsw Tel 02 9358 1760 Freecall 1800 114 311 (regional NSW) Email admin2@mgnsw.org.au Website http://icom.museum/2005_contents.html
Closing 9 May

TENDER FOR THE NSW FTO PROMOTIONAL DVD
The nsw FTO has announced a call for tenders to design, author and replicate a promotional DVD to showcase NSW as a filming destination and promote the capabilities and expertise of NSW as an internationally renowned hub for all aspects of film, television and TVC production and post production. The DVD will emphasis NSW locations' points of difference both nationally and internationally, and will also showcase the capabilities of NSW cast and crew, and the post-production and digital media communities. Details of the brief and the tender documents are available online. Contact Ellenor Cox, Project Manager Tel 02 9360 0007 Email ellenor@firelight.com.au Website http://www.fto.nsw.gov.au
Closing 13 May

PORTABLE STAGE SEEKS LOVING OWNER
Outback Arts is looking for a buyer for its trailer and stage which would suit schools, community groups, community bands/choirs, church groups or any organisation that hosts small performances. Cheap to register and in great condition. The trailer is currently registered and a price above $500 is sought for the package. The trailer dimensions are 2m wide x 4.9m length x 1.9m high. The stage dimensions are 6 panels each 2x3m - total 6mx6m. The box on the trailer is 2x3m. Contact Outback Arts Tel 02 6822 2484 Email rado@outbackarts.com.au
Closing 31 May

ABC2 SEEKS CONTENT
ABC New Media and Digital services is looking to acquire video art under five minutes in duration for screening on their new digital channel ABC2 and broadband website. ABC2 recognises video art as a dynamic art form and Australia as a leader in new media arts. Their role as a national broadcaster enables them to showcase this to a diverse audience. Please send DVD or VHS copies of work, contact details and a brief bio to: Stephanie Carrick, ABC New Media and Digital Services, GPO Box 9994, Sydney NSW 2001. Email stephanie@your.abc.net.au Website www.abc.net.au/abc2
Closing 31 May

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COMMUNITY BUILDING, PARTNERSHIPS AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE - CALL FOR PAPERS
8 - 9 September, Melbourne
Abstracts of 200 words are invited for papers and other presentations at this conference. Interest in community building has emerged in almost every institution and government in the country over the past five years. This conference is an opportunity for community and business leaders, policy makers, researchers, social entrepreneurs and investors to do a national stocktake on community building, partnerships and social enterprise to determine where we are heading and what we need to now do to produce real impacts. Abstracts may be submitted using the online form Website www.partnerships.org.au/Forms/CallforPapers.htm Contact Vern Hughes, Social Enterprise Partnerships Email vern@partnerships.org.au Website www.partnerships.org.au
Closing 31 May

CONFERENCE OF THE JEWELLERS & METALSMITHS GROUP OF AUSTRALIA - CALL FOR PAPERS
27 - 29 January 2006, Sydney
Abstracts for papers and proposals for panels are now being accepted for 'On Location - Making Stories: Siting, Citing, Sighting'. 'On Location: making stories' is a broad theme about the place of jewellery and affiliated objects in our culture. It aims to address different points along the journey of an object from the maker's imagination to its inception and its placement in the cultural community - through the eyes and words of the various people that make its life possible. These are the practitioners who make the objects, the curators who place them on exhibition, the collectors who gather and wear them and the writers who talk about them. Email jmgaconference2006@pyrmontstudios.org.au Website www.pyrmontstudios.org.au
Closing 1 June

THE QUEENSLAND POETRY FESTIVAL 2005: SPOKEN IN ONE STRANGE WORD - CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
The Queensland Poetry Festival is looking for artists interested in having their work featured in the Poetry After Dark event on the evening of 27 August 2005. Poetry After Dark is a two-beat evening of dark and dirty poetry that will include readings from local and international writers, inspired musical assault, photography, art displays and a zine fair. There are three categories to enter for short film makers, artists and zinesters. Website www.queenslandpoetryfestival.net/
Closing 1 June

UNHINGED 2005 SHORT PLAY FESTIVAL - CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
A new theatre-making initiative in the Illawarra. The Unhinged 2005 Short Play Festival is now calling for submissions of short plays, ten minutes or less, from new or existing theatre companies. Writers / directors / actors / technicians from Sydney, the Illawarra and surrounding areas are invited to collaborate on a project which is original and creative and that makes innovative use of this year's unique set piece - a door. Ten plays will be chosen for the inaugural season at Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, 10 - 13 August, 2005. Contact Katrina Rautenberg, Festival Co-ordinator Tel 02 4226 4577 Email katrina@relativity.com.au Website www.unhinged.org.au.
Closing 17 June

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CROC FEST SITE CREW
Various Cities & Towns
Salary: Negotiable daily rate dependant on experience
There are several opportunities available with the Croc Festival® which is held in remote communities promoting health, careers & the arts to Indigenous & non-Indigenous youth. Croc Fest is seeking experienced and highly-efficient team players for short term contract positions in the roles of:

Site Manager (x1)

Site Crew (x3)

Stage Manager (x1)

Assistant Stage Manager (x1)
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply. Website www.crocfestival.org.au
Closing 6 May

GENERAL MANAGER, HOTHOUSE THEATRE
Albury/Wodonga
Salary: $49,500 - $55,000 per annum
HotHouse Theatre is looking for a dynamic General Manager to lead this outstanding regional theatre company. The General Manager is the CEO of HotHouse Theatre and is responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership at the highest level. In partnership with the Artistic Directorate the General Manager is responsible to the Board for the successful development and implementation of the company's business plan aligned to the company's vision and mission. He or she is expected to develop and implement policies that ensure the company is working to current best practice. Planning is an integral function of the role across the company's administration, finance, human and physical resources, venue and artistic program. Contact Fiona Barber, General Manager, Tel 02 6021 7433 Email fiona@hothousetheatre.com.au
Closing 9 May

SENIOR MUSEUM CURATOR, TWEED RIVER REGIONAL MUSEUM (RE-ADVERTISED)
Tweed Shire
Salary: $1,048.61 - $1,206.82 per week (9-day fortnight, 35-hour week)
The successful applicant will be responsible for all aspects of the operations, programs, policies and development of the Tweed River Regional Museum, as well as planning the redevelopment of the museums at Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah and supporting the evolution of the Uki and South Arm Historical Society as a heritage resource centre. Contact Tel 02 6670 2495 Email hru@tweed.nsw.gov.au Website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au Applications close: 4pm Friday May 13 2005
Closing 13 May

MUSEUMS MANAGER, BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL (RE-ADVERTISED)
Bathurst Region
Salary: $58,911.93 - $61,894.35 pa (plus superannuation)
The successful applicant will be responsible for the leadership and management of the Australian Fossil & Mineral Museum, and will also contribute to the realisation of Council¹s strategic direction for Council museums in the Bathurst Region. The position will include policy and strategy development to assist with Council¹s cultural and social planning processes. Contact Alison Armstrong (Director Cultural & Community Services' Assistant) Tel 02 6333 6206 Website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au
Closing 17 May

BAND DIRECTOR
Forster-Tuncurry, Salary: Negotiable
A community concert band with established musicians, instruments, music, rehearsal venue and supporting management committee urgently seeks a director. There is the potential for private studio growth. Contact Clr Leigh Vaughan, Tel 0417 289 077 Email leighv@tpg.com.au or Heidi Parsons Tel 02 6554 5874
No Closing Date

CULTURAL PLANNER
Gloucester Shire, Salary: Negotiable
Gloucester Shire Council is seeking the services of a suitably qualified consultant to prepare a Cultural Plan. It is proposed that the successful applicant will be appointed by the end of May of 2005 and the target date for project completion and launch of the final plan is March 2006. A brief outline of the project can be found on the council's website. Contact Geoff Marshall, Economic Development Officer Tel 02 6538 5250 Website www.gloucester.nsw.gov.au
No Closing Date

RAW SPACE ARTIST RESIDENCIES
Interested in working with artists from all around the world for 4 weeks? Raw Space is offering 48 artists this opportunity, making it Australia's largest artist-run residency program. The group will include 1 international & 3 Australian artists. The 4 artists will live in a residential space and work in a moving image studio in Brisbane. Each artist is required to make at least one screen-based moving image work during the residency. This new work will then be exhibited in a new moving image gallery in the heart of Brisbane City. Artists do not need to be a moving image artist to apply. Email residencies@rawspace.org Website www.rawspace.org
Closing 6 May

ACT HERITAGE GRANTS
Grant funding is available for projects assisting in identifying, conserving or promoting the Aboriginal, historic, natural or movable heritage of the Australian Capital Territory. Funding averages $10,000 per project. An total of $262,000 is available for the 2005-06 round with the following funding priorities:

Projects that prepare to celebrate Canberra's centenary in 2013 or other centenary events.

Community projects that promote heritage through education (of all ages), tourism and events.

Aboriginal heritage projects initiated by or involving the local Aboriginal communities.

Conservation Management Plans and/or urgent works entered in the ACT Heritage Registers.

Projects that fill a thematic gap in the ACT Heritage Register e.g. 20th century heritage, natural heritage and multicultural heritage.
Tel 02 6207 2618 Website www.environment.act.gov.au
Closing 6 May

GRAHAM F SMITH PEACE TRUST
The Graham F Smith Peace Trust was established in 1989 to provide the opportunity to continue Graham's work for peace, justice, human rights and for the dignity of labour. Applications are invited from individuals and organisations for arts projects which address the aims of the Trust - promoting peace, justice, and care for the environment. Small scale projects can be awarded with amounts of up to $1,500, which is available throughout the year. Major projects are considered annually and up to $5,000 may be contributed. Website www.artspeacetrust.org
No Closing Date

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD
Held annually in Canberra between May and September since 1955, the Eisteddfod encourages excellence through developing public performance skills in a broad range of artistic areas. Each year more than 4,000 people, primarily youths, participate - 1,500 on an individual basis and 2,500 as members of bands, orchestras and choirs. Contact Tel 02 6249 7421 Email info@nationaleisteddfod.org.au Website www.nationaleistesteddfod.org.au

2005 LEICA/CCP DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY AWARD
The biennial 2005 Leica/CCP Documentary Photography Award presents a survey of the best contemporary Australian documentary photography in series format. The Award is open to established and aspiring photographers using both analogue and digital cameras, however no alteration of the content of photographs is permitted. Finalists will be selected for exhibition at the new Centre for Contemporary Photography in mid 2005 and subsequent national tour during 2005/2006. Documentary photographers, photojournalists and artists working in a documentary style are invited to submit their work for a chance to win a new Leica M series camera and 50mm F2.8 lens valued at over $13,000. Tel 03 9417 1549 Email info@ccp.org.au Website www.ccp.org.au
Closing 6 May

AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM EUREKA PRIZES
There are 23 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes for 2005 - the largest line-up of prizes for research into environmental and sustainability issues facing Australia. Awards are offered in four main categories: Education, Innovation and Leadership, Research and Science Communication. As well, seven new prizes have been launched in 2005, and they are: Leadership In Business Innovation; Leadership In Science; Schools Prize For Agricultural Journalism; Photographic Journalism In Science; Technology And The Environment; Bioinformatics Research; Sleek Geeks Science Schools Prize and Research Which Replaces The Use Of Animals Or Animal. Most prizes carry a cash reward of $10,000. Contact Tel 02 9320 6039 Website www.amonline.net.au/eureka
Closing 13 May

AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY IDOL
Do you think your community group is a leader in its field? Community groups are encouraged to get better at identifying the elements that are great about their group and to "sing" about their successes in managing an innovative, forward-thinking, inclusive and vibrant group that raises the bar on how community groups should operate. The group named as the 2005 Australian Community Group Idol will receive prize money of $3,000 as well as a full set of Our Community books valued at over $360 and a year's subscription to our series of monthly and quarterly newsletters. Website www.ourcommunity.com.au/communityidol
Closing 16 May

SEX: EROTIC ART AWARD EXHIBITION
SEX is a large survey exhibition, being mounted by adultshop.com and Artrage to occur in October 2005 as part of WA's ARTRAGE Festival. The exhibition will feature a curated selection of works short-listed for the inaugural adultshop.com Erotic Art Award of $10,000. SEX seeks new and existing works that respond to the thematic of sex in all its myriad diversities: Exploring, illuminating, interpreting and challenging the many notions of sexuality, pornography, and the erotic. Works in all media are encouraged. Website www.sex.adultshop.com
Closing 27 May

Promote peace and justice at family, community and international level

Lead to the end of injustice, racial tension, oppression and discrimination

Increase understanding and cooperation between political, racial and ethnic groups

Support the right of Indigenous people to economic self-determination

Educate the public about the alternatives to war as a means of solving international disputes

Promote the care of the environment

Support oppressed people to control their environment for their daily needs

Promote ecologically sustainable development
Website www.artspeacetrust.org/
Closing 30 May

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

2005 QUEENSLAND PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS
The Queensland Premier's Literary Awards were initiated by Premier Peter Beattie in 1999 and have grown to become a leading literary awards program in Australia. The seventh annual Awards is a prestigious program that remains the richest and most diverse of its kind in Australia, with this years awards comprising of 14 categories and a total prize value of $235,000. All Australian writers are encouraged to enter. Contact Tel 07 3224 5783 Email literaryawards@premiers.qld.gov.au Website www.literaryawards.qld.gov.au
Closing 2 June

THE HARRIES NATIONAL DIGITAL ART PRIZE
The Harries are a major $8,000 acquisitive prize for Australian artists. Harries entires should explore ideas of the human form with an understanding of how it relates to technology and/or traces threads through time and space. Work is sought that invents new forms of narrative that grow out of technology capabilities. The focus is on a merging of interface and inter-spatial boundaries that engage a new language of social and cultural metaphor via digital art practices in contemporary society. All digital forms are encouraged to enter, including new media, web, interactive, photomedia and print. Website www.internationaldigitalart.com/digital/harries.html
Closing 10 June

NATIONAL PRINT AWARDS
21 July - 28 August, Murwillumbah
Presented by Community Printmakers Murwillumbah. All form of print works are invited. Includes a total of $8,000 in prize money. Contact 02 6672 8276 Website [PDF] www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/artgallery/CPM_Entry_form_2005.pdf
Closing 17 June

REALISE YOUR DREAM AWARDS - BRITISH COUNCIL AUSTRALIA
Are you aged 18 to 26, interested in travel and a career in the creative industries? Are you a talented visual artist, designer, music producer, film-maker, animator, fashion designer or TV professional? British Council Australia is providing a unique opportunity for six talented young Australians to travel to the UK to participate in a tailor-made programme of visits, attachments, courses etc which allow the winner to interact with top UK professionals in their chosen fields. In addition to these money can't buy opportunities, each award recipient's prize is valued at $AU10,000. Website www.britishcouncil.org.au/Realise-Your-Dream
Closing 8 July

ART FOR ACTION: BLUE MATTERS
Greenpeace Australia Pacific is running the Art for Action competition to celebrate the impact our creative community has in highlighting important environmental issues. This year's competition is centred on saving our oceans and marks the 20th anniversary of the sinking of the Rainbow Warrior I. As well as the chance to see your artwork displayed at the Sydney ArtHouse Hotel during August and September, you could win art and photography equipment. The winner will receive $1000 worth of equipment and the runner-up $500 worth of equipment. All exhibited artworks will be included in an online auction in September with the proceeds going to Greenpeace. Email artforaction@au.greenpeace.org Website www.greenpeace.org.au
Closing 10 July

2005 QUEENSLAND REGIONAL ART AWARDS
This prize is only open to NSW residents north of around Armidale, so call to see if you're eligible or not. Prizes include a $3000 ABN AMRO Morgans acquisitive award, a $2000 Bank of Qld young people's prize, a $1000 Bank of Qld viewer's choice award, bursaries from McGregor Winter Schools and The Australian Forum for Textile Arts and a ten week Visual Arts Online Prize
for Flying Arts' members. Contact Flying Arts Tel 07 3853 3271 Email info@flyingarts.org.au
Closing 25 July

NORFOLK ISLAND THEATRE FESTIVAL
This competition is open to all groups of amateur players who are required to perform a one-act play or excerpt from a full-length play in September on Norfolk Island. Compete against other groups from Australia, NZ and the Pacific Islands for the Trans-Tasman trophy and $1,000 prize money. Email theatre@norfolk.nf
Closing 21 August

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 1 June e-Bulletin is Wednesday 25 May.

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 Wednesday 25 May (but please note we can not guarantee inclusion).

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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.