Far North Queensland will have its fair share of the Palaszczuk Government’s investment in the arts through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said, in partnership with the Far North’s Regional Councils, our region will see more than $180 000 invested in local arts projects.
“The RADF in the past has helped some of local artists make their dreams come true, just like the very talented Moses Warusam who with a grant from the fund was able to help him achieve his dream of recording his debut solo album,” Ms Lui said.
“Not only can the funds be used to assist local artists like Moses but I can’t go past the importance of the preservation of local languages such as that undertaken by Kalan enterprises through the RADF.
“Projects like these highlight the benefits the arts can deliver not only by promoting our great local artists but also making our region that much more enjoyable to live in.
“I can’t wait to see the new and innovative arts projects this money will help deliver to the far North. Everybody is happy and healthier when art is part of their lives.”
Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch said the RADF has been a star performer in Queensland for 27 years by delivering regional arts with local councils.
“RADF supports thousands of arts experiences across the state from local festivals and celebrations to arts opportunities that bring together local communities while also providing professional development and employment outcomes for Queenslanders,” Minister Enoch said.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s investment of $2.08 million for RADF 2018–19 will again support a host of respected arts, cultural and heritage projects across the state, leveraging around $2 million from 58 local governments for a total of approximately $4 million available in local arts funding.”
Ms Leeanne Enoch said that RADF aligned perfectly with the government’s commitments to support diverse and inclusive communities, grow strong regions, provide training, education and employment across the state, and create vibrant arts and cultural experiences.
“RADF has a wonderful flow-on with social and economic benefits for communities and audiences so they can enjoy live performances, exhibitions, community events, while artists can gain better skills, knowledge and industry networks through professional development activities and opportunities.
“The Queensland Government is proud to continue its RADF partnership with local governments to deliver a year-round calendar of vibrant arts and cultural projects.”
Ms Enoch said RADF investment was in addition to the allocation of $6.5 million over four years announced in 2017-18 to create a Regional Arts Services Network which will employ regionally-based arts officers and support the growth and development of regional arts with a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts initiatives.
“Regional arts investment supports locally-driven content and activities, which in turn generates business opportunities, enhances cultural tourism in our communities, and helps to stimulate economic growth and local employment.”
For more information about the Regional Arts Development Fund applicants are encouraged to visit their local council’s website or www.arts.qld.gov.au.
Break down of RADF funding allocations:
Cook Shire Council $25 000
Cairns Regional Council $100 000
Carpentaria Shire Council $25 000
Mareeba Shire Council $35 000
ENDS
Media Contact - Cook Electorate Office 4223 1100
