New Fraser Coast Arts & Culture Strategy

An Arts and Culture Advisory Group will be set up to help Council drive the new Fraser Coast Arts and Culture Strategy.

“The strategy, which was endorsed at the Council meeting today (Wednesday, November 24) sets out the Fraser Coast vision for arts, heritage and culture for the next five years,” Cr Phil Truscott said.

“To ensure that the strategy reflects the aspirations, concerns and ideas from our community, we called for feedback from as many people as possible from across our community, not just artists.”

Council engaged Dr Sue Davis to help develop the strategy and lead the community engagement process.  

Dr Davis helped establish the Central Queensland Regional Arts Services Network and recently worked with the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg councils to develop their Arts and Culture Strategies. 

More than 800 people completed surveys and attended consultation meetings; and 27 Arts and Culture Ambassadors consulted with various arts and culture groups across the region.

“Through our Arts and Cultural Strategy, we can build the capacity and resilience of Fraser Coast artists and our arts community, make innovation easier and attract new creative businesses to the region,” Cr Seymour said.

“A thriving, vibrant arts and cultural community enhances the experience of residents and visitors which strengthens our profile and reputation as a place to work, live, and play.

“The focus for our strategy is to encourage participation in the creative expression of culture, celebrate and honour our culture, contribute to community cohesion and resilience through culture, promote and innovate through culture.

“Cultural activities help create a local identity and a sense of belonging, so we want to ensure the community has access to diverse culture experiences.

“Creative industries also contribute to the growth and diversity of our regional economy as our unique cultural events and character brings people to the region.”

Through he strategy, Council will:

• Increase focus on the arts and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
• Encourage creativity and engagement across the Fraser Coast communities;
• Maintain and extend existing facilities and heritage assets;
• Enhance a strong sense of community, belonging and pride; and
• Build upon our opportunities, diversity and natural heritage.

Council will call of expressions of interest in early 2022 for people to sit on the Arts and Culture Advisory Group.