Glass making, acrobatics, drumming and mosaics coming to Central Highlands thanks to RADF

Seven local Central Highlands arts and cultural projects will share more than $49,000 thanks to round three of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).

RADF funding is a partnership between the state and local governments to invest in quality arts and cultural experiences across Queensland.

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Lions Club in Australia, treasurer of the Emerald branch Kev Bickhoff said their successful RADF grant would be put towards a mosaic emblem in the local Lions Park.

‘Due to the significant size of this project, the local club would not have been able to partake without receiving funding through this initiative,’ he said.

‘The Lions 75th Anniversary celebrations are underway all over Australia, with gardens being planted in the shape of the Lions emblem.

‘However, due to the weather conditions in Central Queensland, we have opted for a more sustainable and maintainable option in a tile mosaic.’

The Emerald Lions Club began in 1966 and offers volunteers an opportunity to give back and serve those in need in their communities.

Kev Bickhoff said the mosaic is also an excellent way for Lions to support local talent.

‘We are aiming to use all local resources for this project. From local trades and local art talent, it’s a great way for us to support and acknowledge the local suppliers bringing it all together for the community to enjoy,’ he said.

The RADF round three successful applications are:

Workshops in glass bead making and glass fusing during the International Year of Glass – Emerald Art GroupLions 75th anniversary mosaic emblem to be constructed in Lions Park – Emerald Lions ClubAcrobatic and circus workshops with Flipside Circus – Council-initiated project (CIP)Youth art workshops run by YouthInc 1825 – CIPSeniors craft workshops during Seniors Month in CHRC Libraries – CIPDrumming and dance workshops with Happy Africa Art – CIPCraft activities in Emerald Art Gallery – CIP

Central Highlands Regional Council Mayor Kerry Hayes is eager to see these initiatives come to life over the coming months.

‘2022 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for arts and culture opportunities in the Central Highlands,’ said CHRC Mayor Kerry Hayes.

‘A big congratulations to all grant recipients, and thank you for your dedication to arts and culture in our region.’

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the Palaszczuk Government is investing $2.08 million through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) in 2021-22, matched with a contribution of approximately $2.3 million from 59 councils across the state.

‘RADF is a great example of working together to deliver our COVID-19 economic recovery plan, supporting employment opportunities and creating new arts and cultural experiences in local and regional communities,’ Minister Enoch said.    

‘RADF in 2021–2022 will provide valuable social, health and economic outcomes for regional Queenslanders, and support our Government’s 10-year arts roadmap priorities to strengthen Queensland communities, activate local places, and drive social change across the state.’

For more information on RADF, contact the  Arts & Culture team on 1300 242 686.