Bundaberg Region artists are encouraged to get their applications in for a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, with the region awarded $45,250 in further funding as part of Arts Queensland’s 2023-2024 RADF program.
Combined with Council’s contribution and rollover funds, there is over $110,000 available to artists, arts workers and arts organisations to undertake arts, cultural or heritage activities.
RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Bundaberg Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Council’s Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Councillor John Learmonth said applications for Round One funding were now open, for projects commencing after 3 June 2024.
“There is a pool of over $53,000 available in Round One of the 2023-24 RADF funding program,” Councillor Learmonth said.
“The projects funded by the program bring such vibrancy and depth to our local arts community, I encourage local creatives and artists to check their eligibility and consider applying for a grant.
“You don’t need to be an arts organisation to take advantage of this opportunity, it is also open to individuals for a variety of endeavours.”
Cr Learmonth said he was impressed by the range and creativeness of the projects that received funding over the past year.
“We saw an array of activities funded through the RADF program, including dance workshops, children’s book development, photographic residencies, and song recording,” he said.
“Bundaberg Regional Council delivered $118,616 worth of funding across 30 projects and activities which employed 72 artists and cultural workers and employed a further 66 people in positions associated with projects.”
Previous grant recipient Andrea Huglin from Noosa Film Academy received a $14,948 RADF grant towards the cost of Youth Acting for Screen and Screen Production Workshops and Red Carpet Community Screening Event.
“Workshops were delivered in five local high schools across Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin,” Andrea said.
“RADF was instrumental in the delivery of the workshops this year and it opens up the opportunity to extend the scope of expanding the program in 2024.”
Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the Queensland Government’s successful, long-term partnership with local governments through RADF supports the delivery of hundreds of arts experiences, employment opportunities and capacity building for arts and cultural workers across the state.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen local communities and drive economic outcomes through arts and culture, the Queensland Government has provided $2.184 million for RADF 2023-24 to 59 local councils who have contributed a co-investment of $1.979 million,” Minister Enoch said.
“The Queensland Government’s Creative Together 2020-2030 roadmap prioritises activation of Queensland’s places and spaces and arts engagement that drives positive change for Queensland communities.
“Projects funded through RADF support communities to share stories and creativity, provide important pathways for learning and connection, and boost local creative economies and tourism.”
Grant applications now open
Applications are now open and close on Sunday 10 March 2024, with applications assessed by Bundaberg Regional Council RADF Assessment Panel and recommendations presented to Council for endorsement at the Ordinary Meeting scheduled for Tuesday 23 April 2024.
The second and final round of RADF funding for 2024 opens Monday 11 March 2024 and closes Sunday 7 July 2024.
Additionally, Quick Response RADF grants of up to $2,000 are open year-round and applications are accepted monthly.
All applications must be submitted via the SmartyGrants online grants administration system at www.artsbundaberg.com.au/radf.
For more information on how to apply, including guidelines and eligibility criteria, check the Council website or contact Council’s RADF officer at radf@bundaberg.qld.gov.au.
