$77,500 will be spent on arts projects in the Charters Towers Region through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) program over the next 12 months.

In 2022-2023, Charters Towers Regional Council will contribute $43,000 to the RADF budget with Arts Queensland to contribute $34,500.

Councillor Graham Lohmann, whose portfolio includes arts and culture, is encouraging locals to start thinking about any arts projects they would like to see in the Region.

“Even if all you have at this point in time is an idea, let’s have a discussion.

“It would be great to have some innovative arts projects to enliven the region.

“These projects can be anything from artwork and sculptures through to events, workshops and animation of public spaces,” Cr Lohmann said.

RADF is a partnership between Council and the Queensland Government to help support local arts and culture in the Region.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said as part of this successful, long-term collaboration, the Queensland Government will provide $2.13 million for RADF 2022–2023 to a total of 59 local councils, who will contribute a co-investment amount of over $1.9 million

“Established in 1991, RADF is a long-standing success story between the Queensland Government and regional councils, enabling local artists and arts workers to tell their rich and unique stories, boosting regional employment opportunities and other positive economic outcomes”, Minister Enoch said.  

“For 31 years RADF has provided a legacy of creating new art and cultural experiences for Queensland audiences and communities, and a platform for professional development and growth across the regional arts sector.”

Applications are now open, with Round 1 funding closing on 11 November 2022.

Council encourages applications for projects that will deliver on the priorities for RADF in 2022-2023, which are: Sharing stories and celebrating our history, Activating local places and spaces, Elevating First Nations arts and Strengthening our community by creating partnerships.

For more information on RADF, including previous successful applications, go to www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/regional-arts-development-fund