SYKES: ARTS FUNDING AVAILABLE

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, is calling on local arts groups to check the recently released overview of the 2005-06 Arts Funding Program for funding opportunities for local projects.

“It’s the perfect opportunity for our local artistic groups and schools to find out about the resources available to assist with the development and continuation of arts programs and initiatives.

“There will be a funding information session held in Wangaratta, next Wednesday (13 July) for potential funding applicants. Arts Victoria staff will introduce locals to the guidelines and criteria, as well as assist with advice on making an application. The session will be held at The Playhouse Theatre, on the corner of Ford and Ovens Street between 6.30 and 8pm. For bookings phone 1800 134 894.

Dr Sykes continued “The ‘Artists In Schools’ is another great initiative. The program provides the opportunity for professional artists to work with young people in Victorian schools through funding grants for the employment of an artist for up to 20 days.

“My office has so far been in contact with several local projects that could really benefit from this funding program. ComAs, is one of those projects. It is a new community art space program in Benalla which aims to facilitate a huge range of arts under the one roof and is looking for just this kind of funding. The newly formed Benalla Arts Council is another enthusiastic local arts initiative that may benefit from this funding round.

“I think it’s important for people to look at the criteria and see how it can be adapted to fill in gaps in current funding structures. We have been contacted by concerned residents in Mansfield regarding the lack of funding for ‘strings’ music programs through the school. This is the time to get creative and see how this funding may be able to assist.

“We have sent the information booklet to the Strathbogie shire as well, in the interests of locating funding opportunities for the Eclipse Youth Theatre, The youth newsletter ‘Vibe’ and ‘Film by Youth’; all are outstanding artistic programs that offer so much to our community.

“If you are unable to attend the information sessions you can find details of the program by visiting the Arts Victoria website and following the links to the ‘Funding Programs’ section. The web address is www.arts.vic.gov.au. Funding booklets can be found on the site for downloading. Alternatively, you can get a hard copy of the booklet from my office or by phoning 1800 134 894.

Dr Sykes concluded, “Our funding officer Peta Clark will help out where she can. We are very keen to see these opportunities utilised locally.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989