Council’s $2.1m, three-year boost to local art scene

A $2.1m cash splash will kickstart the Gold Coast’s art industry with at least 12 local arts and cultural groups to benefit from increased council spending.

Deputy Mayor Donna Gates has outlined $700,000 will be allocated to several successful recipients annually over the next three years.

The successful recipients include The Farm, Everybody Now Ltd, Shock Therapy, Swell Sculpture Festival and the Somerset Storyfest.

The funding boost occurs as councillors next Thursday are expected to tick off on a draft plan for a special entertainment precinct for Southport.

The plans, which will allow for more live bands at selected street venues, are to go to public consultation in November.

Councillor Gates said the council was committed to supporting the ongoing growth of the Coast’s creative sector.

“It’s been a very tough 18 months for our arts community and local creatives,” she said.

“These grants will allow local arts and cultural organisations to continue delivering new work and provide creative employment opportunities for Gold Coast artists.

“There is a wealth of talent within our city and it’s vital we continue to nurture and future-proof the sector.”

Funding for the successful recipients will be delivered across a three-year period from 2022.

The Arts Organisation Triennial Funding was a key funding program for the city, a council spokesperson said.

The funds help with the continued growth of the sector, building capacity for organisations to deliver high-quality cultural products which in turn provide an economic benefit for the city, the spokesperson added.