Monday, April 16, 2007
Awards Acknowledge Importance of Culture
45 councils together with communities in NSW are in the running for awards recognising their commitment to cultural development.
Winners will be announced at the annual Local Government Cultural Awards, attended by leaders from the arts and entertainment industry, councils and government. New Minister for the Arts Frank Sartor has been invited to attend.
The Awards are organised by the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW in partnership with Country Energy.
"Cultural activity encourages tourism, can boost the local economy and supports the development and well being of residents, so it's little wonder there's a shift in focus towards cultural development," President of the Local Government Association of NSW, Cr Genia McCaffery said.
"This is most evident in the increasing number of multi-purpose cultural centres, cultural plans and small local festivals we're seeing across the State. Many of the councils nominated for an award this year are being recognised for their involvement in these projects."
Categories in this year's awards include Cultural Policy and Planning, Cultural Infrastructure and Aboriginal Cultural Development. Council staff will also be recognised for their contributions with the Brendan Hartnett Award.
A Cultural Awards website will be launched at the event, showcasing all nominated projects.
"Many councils in NSW are financially struggling, and there's a growing understanding of how local arts and culture can boost community moral," President of the Shires Association of NSW, Cr Col Sullivan OAM, said.
"We're excited that for the first time photos and details of all these great projects will be available on the web - it's proof that cultural development is moving forward and increasing in recognition."
Councils, organisations with an interest in culture, and the media are encouraged to attend the awards.
Interested media should contact Kristie Down (photos available).
TIME AND DATE: 6pm, Friday 4 May 2007
VENUE: Strangers' Dining Room, Parliament House
For information on individual projects, contact Chris Hudson on 9242 4047. Click the link below to register your attendance:
Register for the Cultural Awards
Media Officer: Kristie Down - 0427 109 593
Media Comment: Cr Genia McCaffery - 0419 404 867
Cr Col Sullivan OAM - 0418 660 276
