Community & Business
6 July, 2024
More murals on the way for Mareeba Shire
FUNDS to support artistic endeavours will be sought by Mareeba Shire Council as it continues to build the capacity of the area’s arts, culture and heritage sector.
Council will annually apply for $34,125 in Regional Arts Development Fund grants for the next four years and contribute $14,500 a year to that from its own budget to enable a variety of projects to be realised.
Among them is the final three public artworks to be created at Kuranda, Julatten and Irvinebank as part of council’s Public Mural Action Plan – something Mayor Angela Toppin hopes will have broad benefits.
“By adopting the RADF program over the next four years in partnership with the Queensland Government, we will be supporting the rich heritage and artistic culture of Mareeba Shire whilst promoting tourism, economic development, strengthening communities and beautifying our towns,” she said.
Mayor Toppin, who is also chair of the RADF Advisory Committee, said the 2024-2028 program would feature three components which included the delivery of the final three of 11 murals that are dotted around the shire.
The program would also provide opportunities for capacity building in the arts sector.
“Training workshops will be delivered annually to develop practical skills, build employment opportunities, and increase participation in arts and cultural activities for the wider community,” she said.
“Finally, an annual Community Grant Round will be offered in all but the first year of the RADF program to cater to the diverse development and participation needs of artists, art groups and the community.”
The focus for the community grant rounds will be on community-led activities to a maximum grant request of $10,000.
