Gerald Lynch
More than $70,000 has been allocated to the arts grants program in Hume, helping residents creatively express themselves and their community.
The program will be open for submissions until, with two grants of up to $20,000 available and 15 grants of up to $3000 also available.
The council’s report outlines that applicants either individually or organisations must have a strong commitment or record of achievement in their chosen art sector.
Councillor Jarrod Bell was a strong advocate for the funding to be passed through, speaking to the important role art plays within the community at a council meeting on Monday, November 13.
“This is a relatively new program… and it’s about investing in our people and in the delivery of our arts program,” he said.
“I often say here that art brings life, vibrancy and colour to our community but it needs support.
“Especially in the outer suburbs, we have a fantastic and vibrant community, but there are practitioners that don’t understand the pathways available to them to get the support that they need.
“After the success of our 2022 and 2023 programs, it is wonderful to know that we have the opportunity to be distributing just over $70,000 this year.”
Submissions open February 5 and close March 11, with decisions to be finalised in May.
Cr Bell said it was a good decision, allowing potential applicants a substantial amount of time to put together a strong application.
“This gives our artists plenty of time from now to consider what they might do, how, where and why they might do it, I look forward to seeing the program recommendations come back to council next year,” he said.
