The spotlight will be on arts, culture and events over the next 12 months with Bundaberg Regional Council’s 2023-24 budget supporting and celebrating a continuing calendar of local and touring performances, festivals and exhibitions.
It comes as Council reinforces its commitment to fostering community spirit by showcasing local talent and bringing high-quality entertainment to the region.
Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said last financial year the region was treated to a stellar line-up of performances and exhibitions as well as plenty of opportunity for locals to harness their creativity.
He said this year would be no different.
“Bundaberg Regional Council is lucky to have two fantastic galleries, in Bundaberg Art Gallery and Childers Art Space, as well as an amazing theatre committed to showcasing artists, exhibitions and performances that resonate with our regional community,” he said.
“Our galleries and Moncrieff Entertainment Centre are wonderful venues which not only provide high-quality entertainment and events through national and international talents, but they also provide a space for locals to showcase their skills, schools and groups to perform and spaces for the community to come together to appreciate theatre and the arts.
“It is also worth noting attendances at the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre has increased significantly since even before COVID began.”
Along with a jam-packed program of performances and exhibitions, Council’s 2023-24 budget will also continue its commitment in engaging residents in a range of art workshops and educational experiences.
“From environmental workshops to community choirs and school holiday and art programs there will be something for any age and skillset,” Cr Learmonth said.
“Engagement is Council’s priority and the experiences through these workshops and educational programs will leave residents enriched and eager for more.”
A celebration of culture will also continue into the new financial year with First Nations artists to be celebrated throughout upcoming exhibitions and performances as well as within the return of the annual Milbi Festival.
“Our Milbi Festival is one of the highly anticipated events on our calendar and is a wonderful collaboration of local First Nations groups and the community,” Cr Learmonth said.
“The festival is part of a range of major events that bring locals and visitors together throughout the year, including Childers and Taste Festivals and the annual Christmas Program.
“These events, plus our theatre and art galleries, are integral in not only bringing new experiences to the region, but also in showing off our own local talent and having spaces to foster and grow a creative community.”
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I am a retired Architect and Artist living now in Bundaberg after living all my life in Sydney. I create artworks that are unique and would like to exhibit in one of your galleries. How can I do that please?