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Local government

Funding Cuts to Regional Art Galleries Threaten Cultural Tourism and Community Life

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The NSW Government's decision to withdraw four-year funding to Create NSW has left 18 regional art galleries, including the Tamworth Regional Gallery, without a crucial source of support. This funding cut will have a ripple effect on cultural tourism and community programs, with the Tamworth Regional Gallery alone facing a significant reduction in its ability to deliver exhibitions, workshops, and programs. The gallery, with a proud 106-year history, has relied on this funding to showcase both local and national artists, support regional creative industries, and provide access to cultural opportunities for residents in regional and rural areas.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NSW Government's funding cuts to Create NSW will impact 18 regional art galleries, including the Tamworth Regional Gallery, which has received $70,000 annually for the last four years.
  • The funding cut will diminish the community's cultural life, with reduced access to exhibitions, workshops, and programs, and will have a similar impact on regions across NSW.
  • The Tamworth Regional Gallery is one of the oldest and most respected regional galleries in the state, with a proud 106-year history of serving the community.
  • The funding underpins Council's ability to support regional artists and ensures equal access to cultural opportunities for residents in regional and rural areas.
  • The cuts risk widening the cultural gap between the city and the regions, undermining years of progress in promoting creative industries, cultural tourism, and regional liveability.
  • The NSW Government is urged to reconsider these cuts and reinstate sustainable funding to regional galleries.

Statistics:

  • 18 regional art galleries will miss out on four-year funding from the NSW Government.
  • The Tamworth Regional Gallery has received $70,000 annually for the last four years.
  • The gallery has a proud 106-year history of serving the community and showcasing both local and national artists.
  • The funding underpins around $70,000 in annual funding for the last four years.
  • The cuts risk widening the cultural gap between the city and the regions.

Sources:

  • Russell Webb, Tamworth Region Mayor
  • Peter Ross, Executive Manager, Creative Communities & Experiences

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