Our commitment to supporting and fostering a creative Nillumbik and celebrating its unique culture and heritage has been outlined in the new Arts and Culture Strategy 2022-26.
The strategy, endorsed at the September Council meeting, is an example of what Council and community can achieve together and has been informed by the most extensive consultation ever undertaken for arts and culture planning in the Shire.
The strategy is now available on Council's website and captures the thoughts, hopes and dreams of more than 2200 community members who contributed to the strategy's development.
Nillumbik Mayor Frances Eyre, said: "Community is at the heart of everything we do and it's crucial any strategy is a reflection of the community's values and aspirations.
"Arts and culture is in the very DNA of the Shire and is a vital link in keeping us all emotionally connected, inspired and mentally stimulated.
"The strategy has clear goals that are achievable and flexible in an ever-changing world. This is a strategy that gives us room to move; to adapt or add in things as community needs or opportunities arise."
Councillor Geoff Paine, Chair of Council's Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee, said: "The new Arts and Culture Strategy gives us a clear map of where we are, where we want to go, and how we are going to get there over the next four years. The strategy will guide our work in supporting arts and culture to grow and thrive."
The strategy identifies four keys goals representing the strong themes that emerged during consultation. They are:
- Goal 1: An Interconnected and Creative Community
- Goal 2: A Visible and Supported Creative Community
- Goal 3: A Diverse and Resilient Creative Community
- Goal 4: A Distinctively Nillumbik Creative Community
Inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility have guided the development of the strategy and will underpin its implementation.
Mayor Frances Eyre, said: "While we are different people with individual identities and points of view, we also foster inclusion, promote equity and strive for a culture of belonging.
"Council is excited about the possibilities this strategy offers and looks forward to working with our community to further support creative endeavors in our Shire."
The strategy is available to read here.
