Bridging the gap towards better health in the Macedon Ranges

Published on 14 August 2020

A new project, funded by VicHealth, will support creative LGBTIQA+ young people in the Macedon Ranges to participate in arts, cultural and creative activities and build social connections.

The grant will fund the scoping phase of the project, and will explore the potential of developing and running an arts-based program in the shire to provide access to appropriate social supports for young people aged 12 to 25 years, who identify as LGBTIQA+ and live in the Macedon Ranges.

This project is designed to explore the potential of such a program and finalise the design of a program with the feedback and assistance of local stakeholders and young people.

At the completion of the project there will be the opportunity to seek VicHealth funding of up to $150,000 to design and deliver an arts program in the Macedon Ranges Shire.

Council is working with project partner, The Dax Centre, to co-design creative solutions to local health and wellbeing challenges and enhance health promotion strategies. The Dax Centre in Melbourne is a leader in the use of art to raise awareness and reduce stigma towards mental illness.

Queer My Head art project is one of 12 initiatives sharing more than $1 million in funding, as part of VicHealth’s Art of Good Health grants.

Project spokesperson Angela Hughes said the funding will explore the potential of a local program to improve inclusion, reduce isolation, raise awareness and increase access to appropriate social supports for young people aged 12 to 25 who identify as LGBTIQA+.

The project will involve the co-development of an arts program featuring works from LGBTIQA+ artists, creative workshops, education programs and new resources for local youth organisations.

VicHealth CEO Dr Sandro Demaio said creative new projects like Queer My Head are designed to increase access and encourage more people to participate in the arts, cultural and creative sectors.

“Regular arts and cultural engagement mean better health outcomes, but unfortunately opportunities to engage in arts, cultural and creative experiences are not evenly distributed. Many people in our community face significant and complex barriers to participation,” Dr Demaio said.

“In the midst of coronavirus, it is more important than ever to support our community to feel socially connected and included.”

The Art of Good Health grant is designed to promote health and wellbeing locally, through participation in arts and culture. To learn more, visit VicHealth