Southern Downs Regional Council encourages all those with a creative vision for the Southern Downs region to apply for funding through the Queensland Government’s Regional Arts Development Fund and bring their vision to life. Individuals and organisations can apply for the RADF program’s first round of funding until midnight on  Sunday 2 December.

The Queensland Government  will provide $55,000 with SDRC contributing another $50,000 to create a total funding pool of $105,000 for this financial year’s RADF program. Southern Downs Councillor for Finance, Governance and the Arts, and Chair of the RADF Reference Group, Jo McNally said she is pleased to see the continuing enthusiasm for the arts in the Southern Downs. “Every year Council receives applications for exciting projects that will enhance our region’s artistic and cultural fabric,” Cr McNally said. “I look forward to seeing the projects put forward this year and encourage anyone interested to apply.”

Queensland Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch said investing in creative and cultural experiences through RADF strengthened regional communities, boosted cultural tourism, and enhanced the quality of life in rural and remote towns and cities. “RADF is a unique partnership between the Queensland Government and Southern Downs Regional Council to support local talent, unite communities and celebrate the arts across the state,” Cr Enoch said. “The Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, is contributing $2.08 million in 2018-19 in partnership with 58 councils statewide to help deliver cultural experiences which align with local priorities.”

Anyone interested in applying for funding must apply online via SmartyGrants. Applicants should take note that the projects they seek to fund through the RADF program cannot begin before 28 January 2019.

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