Regional Queenslanders can engage with arts and culture in their local communities with 59 local governments set to share in more than $4 million under the 2019-20 funding for the longstanding Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
The Regional Arts and Development Fund (RADF) was established in 1991 and is funded by both state and local government in partnership.
Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the Palaszczuk Government is proud to continue its RADF partnership with local governments with an investment of $2.08 million, through Arts Queensland, for the 2019-20 fund.
"This investment, along with the $2 million from 59 local governments, will support the delivery of hundreds of arts experiences and professional development opportunities across the state.
"RADF enables local councils and communities to determine arts and cultural priorities on a local level, with projects selected and developed by local councils," Ms Enoch said.
"Projects funded through RADF provide pathways for learning, contribute to the creation of jobs, foster creativity and boost cultural tourism."
Minister Enoch said RADF includes funding for mosaic workshops in Maranoa Regional Council, support for the Gladstone Spinners, Weavers and Fibre Workers, and Scenic Rim Regional Council's 2019 Arts Ablaze conference and festival.
"In Cook Shire Council the Yuku Baja Muliku Land Trust used RADF funding for a series of workshops teaching natural dyeing techniques to colour fabrics," Ms Enoch said.
"The Isaac Regional Council shared First Nations creation stories and cultural connections at their St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend in June, while Rockhampton engaged singer-songwriter Troy Cassar Daley to collaborate with local singers for a workshop and performance."
Local Government Association of Queensland chief executive Greg Hallam said RADF was a vital program enabling councils to help enrich the cultural and artistic fabric of their local communities.
"There are few other programs whose value is better recognised than RADF among local governments," he said.
Minister Enoch said RADF is a vital part of Arts funding, and one that the Palaszczuk Government is complementing with the establishment of the Regional Arts Services Network (RASN) last year.
"The Regional Arts Services Network is a new approach to delivering state-wide arts services with Queensland Government funding of $6.5 million over four years.
"RASN would see RADF investment stretch even further in delivering benefits for councils by providing key collaborations and networking opportunities across regions."
