Eleven arts projects are being supported to deliver vibrant arts and cultural experiences that nurture local talent and enrich the cultural life of the Cairns community.
Cairns Regional Council has approved $116,825 in funding under the 2025/26 Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Major Round Two.
Delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government, the initiative aims to enrich and expand the region's arts and cultural landscape.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said supporting local artists was an investment in the city's future.
"A thriving arts and cultural sector gives back so much to our city. It creates jobs, attracts visitors, supports local businesses and helps build the vibrant lifestyle that makes Cairns such a special place," Cr Eden said.
"By investing in creative projects and local talent, we're helping our arts community continue to grow, innovate and inspire future generations."
Recipients include:
- Album Registry Pty Ltd trading as Yarner - $12,000 for UNCONVERTED – an Absurdist Dramedy
- Bus Stop Films – $12,000 for Lights, Camera, Cairns: Inclusive Film Production with Local Crew and Public Showcase
- Cristina Bevilacqua – $12,000 for SKIN ~ FILTERS
- India Collins – $12,000 for re VULVA lution
- John Eaton – $12,000 for Other Norths
- JUTE Theatre Company – $12,000 for Three Dresses World Premiere Season – Foyer activation
- Kathryn Laughton – $11,978 for Kulara: Dramaturgical Development and Creative Lab
- Molly Pointing – $11,700 for The She Shed Documentary
- Monica Stevens - $8,847 for The Brown Blouse – script writing intensive
- Leon Tussie - $6,800 for From Berlin to Cairns: Releasing the Archipelago Iguana Soundsystem Album
- Emma Rehn - $5,500 for The Study of Houses: Ecological Homes of Far North Queensland
Supported projects span documentaries, world/electronic music, exhibitions, activations, script writing, theatre work, and a web series placing FNQ storytelling on a global stage.
These initiatives will enhance creative skills, expand professional pathways and deliver diverse, engaging experiences for Cairns audiences.
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.
"The Crisafulli Government's multi-year RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state's vibrant arts and cultural scene," Minister Langbroek said.
"Each year, RADF programs reach more than one million people across Queensland, securing local arts experiences and cultural tourism opportunities in regional areas, as well as supporting local artists in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
"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 Cairns Regional Council to promote local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
