Supporting the Next Wave of Creative Vision in Central Queensland
Rockhampton Regional Council is pleased to announce that Round 3 of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) 2025–2026 is now open, inviting artists, creatives, and cultural organisations to apply for funding for projects commencing after Friday 1 May 2026. Applications close Friday 17 April 2026.
RADF is a long‑standing partnership between the Queensland Government and Rockhampton Regional Council, investing in high‑quality arts and cultural experiences based on locally identified priorities. The program continues to play a vital role in strengthening regional creativity, fostering cultural talent, and enriching community engagement across the region.
Rockhampton Regional Council Communities and Heritage Spokesperson Councillor Drew Wickerson said the opening of Round 3 follows an inspiring and impactful suite of projects supported in Round 2.
"The creativity emerging from our region right now is extraordinary," Cr Wickerson said.
"RADF gives our artists the opportunity to develop their skills, share their stories, and create work that reflects who we are as a community. Round 3 is another chance for local creatives to push boundaries and bring bold new ideas to life."
Cr Wickerson said the recently funded Round 2 projects demonstrate the depth, skill, and diversity of the region's arts sector.
"From hands‑on workshops to classical music collaborations and community storytelling, Round 2 showed just how imaginative and ambitious Central Queensland artists can be," he said.
"These projects don't just enrich our cultural landscape, they strengthen our identity and ensure the arts continue to thrive for future generations."
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) has an impressive track record of supporting local arts and cultural programs across Queensland communities.
"For 34 years, Arts Queensland has partnered with regional councils to co-invest in local arts initiatives that generate jobs, community engagement and help boost local economies. The Crisafulli Government will continue to support these vital collaborations."
RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Rockhampton Regional Council to promote local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Apply Now for RADF Round 3
Eligible artists, cultural workers, collectives, and community organisations are encouraged to apply. Projects may span visual arts, performance, music, literature, cross‑disciplinary practices, heritage, and more.
If you have a project, an idea, or a vision that will inspire our region, now is the time to apply.
Applications close Friday 17 April 2026.
For guidelines, eligibility details, and application forms, visit Rockhampton Regional Council's website www.rrc.qld.gov.au/RADF or contact the RADF Liaison Officer on 4932 9000.
Celebrating the Successful Recipients of RADF Round 2
Rockhampton Regional Council congratulates the following recipients, whose projects have been partially funded by RADF for their artistic merit, community benefit, and contribution to the region's cultural vibrancy:
Central Queensland Contemporary Artists Inc – Skills Upgrade Workshop in Mixed Media Processes
Funding: $3,331.00
A two‑day workshop led by acclaimed artist Tricia Reust, offering artists the opportunity to explore collage, surface texturing, stencilling, printing, and layered painting techniques on gessoed canvas. The project boosts professional development in the region, supports both emerging and established artists, and enriches future exhibitions and community arts initiatives.
Capricornia Printmakers Inc – Printmaking Workshop: True Grit in the Outdoors
Funding: $3,529.50
A professional two‑day printmaking workshop guided by Melbourne printmaker Bronwyn Rees. Participants receive hands‑on instruction in drypoint etching, carborundum collagraphs, and plein‑air inspiration drawn from the Fitzroy/Tunuba River. The project enhances technical proficiency, encourages experimentation, and nurtures a thriving printmaking culture in Central Queensland.
Ian Dunmore – Time Safaris: Living Archive
Funding: $10,000.00
A three‑month pilot project capturing intimate personal histories across local libraries and the Heritage Village. Through more than 170 one‑on‑one encounters, community members share lived experiences connected to regional culture, identity, and heritage. Select sessions will form a digital archive, strengthening ethical storytelling practice and cementing Rockhampton's role as a leader in participatory heritage documentation leading into the 2032 Olympic cultural program.
Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra – ARCO in Rockhampton: Creative Development, Performance and Community Engagement
Funding: $4,112.00
For the first time, ARCO brings its Bohemian Dreams program to Rockhampton, presenting rare 19th‑century works on period instruments. The project features a workshop with the Rockhampton Youth Orchestra, empowering young musicians to perform as the ensemble for the public concert, followed by an engaging Talk‑&‑Tea with ARCO musicians. The initiative broadens access to exceptional classical music and deepens artistic participation within the region.
