Gympie has an exciting year coming up for arts and culture.
Gympie Regional Council staff are currently working on the action plans to implement their new Arts and Cultural Strategy and things are taking shape.
During the consultation process, the council found that the highest priorities for locals were the re-opening of the Gympie Civic Centre as a cultural and community space as a matter of urgency, the need for performing arts venues, and community and cultural hubs.
They also found the need for improved communications, networking and improved and more inclusive event marketing and promotions, with physical as well as digital manifestations.
Locals also informed council of their desire for creating more public art, reflecting regional character: for, with, and by the community.
Also on the list of priorities were improved processes, equipment, management, support from Council-run venues/events and Local artist opportunities.
The council have said they are planning lots of foundational work to address these priorities.
While results may not be seen right away, behind the scenes the groundwork is being done to realise the arts and cultural needs of the community.
For those interested, to read more about the feedback from the consultation process, visit the website to read the consultation report, and catch up on the story so far.
And don’t forget to join them at the first of two Arts and Cultural Forums on Wednesday, 21 February, to get involved, have a say and ask any questions regarding the future of arts and culture in Gympie.
