“OPERA HOUSE” UPGRADE TO BENEFIT JULIA CREEK ARTS COMMUNITY

Arts activities will be expanded in the McKinlay Shire through a Government-funded program which is fostering creative industry development across Queensland.

Arts Minister Rod Welford said the Julia Creek ‘Opera House’ - affectionately named for its 1973 opening, on the same day as the Sydney Opera House - would be renovated with funding of $14,267 through the Gritty Places Partnership Program.

“This program is making a difference to artists and communities throughout the state by transforming old and disused buildings into creative and active spaces,” Mr Welford said.

“The ‘Opera House’ building is an obvious choice to be transformed into an arts facility as it is located right next to the town’s hub for pottery work.

“With only one meeting room currently available to artists in Julia Creek, this project has also received the stamp of approval from the McKinlay Cultural Association.

“Mr Welford said renovating the ‘Opera House’ would give local artists much-needed space for workshops and exhibitions.

“The first event planned for the new building is an historical photographic exhibition of McKinlay Shire, in celebration of Julia Creek’s centenary year in 2007,” he said

“From 2005 to 2009, our Government is providing $200,000 a year through the Gritty Places Partnership Program to help local councils and community groups convert old council buildings into arts venues.”

Local councils can apply for grants of up to $50,000 per location to develop a Gritty Places project. Applicants will need to demonstrate their financial commitment by at least matching the funding sought from the State Government.

Other Gritty Places projects to receive funding in the 2006-07 financial year include the redevelopment of a tank at Cairns’ Tanks Art Centre and redevelopment of the old Town Hall in Blackall into an arts facility for youth.

Applications for the next round of funding close on 28 September 2007. For more information about Gritty Places, visit www.arts.qld.gov.au or call (07) 3235 4043.