Review highlights cultural achievements

The achievements of Cairns Regional Council in the arts and cultural sector have been highlighted at a Special Meeting to discuss the future of the performing arts in Cairns.

A review of the outcomes of Council's 2009-2014 Cultural Plan shows that more than three-quarters of the 55 identified strategic actions have been completed, with a further 15 per cent currently under way.

The Plan was based on six areas of strategic focus: Arts Industry Development, Festivals and Events, Cultural Facilities, Cultural Tourism, Cultural Development and Urban Vitality and Suburban Improvement.

"There are just five actions outstanding from the original 55 and I'm pleased to say that the most prominent of those has been addressed today," Cr Manning said.

"The delivery of The Precinct will fulfil Council's commitment to provide a quality regional performing arts centre for Cairns and to provide opportunities for the growth of our local arts sector."

During the past five years and as a direct result of the Cultural Plan, about 1150 people were engaged in temporary or project-based employment and 10 long-term positions were created.

Nearly 20,000 people actively participated in the plan's outcomes and more than 1.67 million were audience members.

"We recognise the vibrancy that an active arts community brings to a regional city and the depth of talent and creativity of Cairns people is inspiring.

"Investment in cultural programs is an investment in the community. This review of the most recent Cultural Plan shows the value of previous investments and allows us to assess the success of strategies and actions that have been undertaken.

"This review will, in turn, feed into the next five-year Cultural Plan and its proposed actions."  

WHAT WE'VE ACHIEVED:

• High participation and engagement rates across a range of projects and events
• Preliminary design for The Precinct performing arts complex
• Festivals and events grants streams established
• Establishment of grant to assist with improvements to cultural facilities
• Development of residency program for the Tanks Arts Centre
• Partnership with Arts Queensland to deliver various local arts programs
• Adoption of eight Conservation Management Plans for maintenance and protection of significant heritage sites
• Increased funding and support for Cairns Regional Gallery
• Self-guided tour of heritage sites in the CBD
• Establishment of public art festivals such as Esplanart and Changing Lanes
• Implementation of Botanic Gardens & Tanks Arts Centre Masterplan stage 1
• Adoption of Public Art Plan

CURRENT ACTIONS:

• Detailed design for The Precinct performing arts complex
• Cultural Resource Mapping to identify and record links, networks, resources and usage of cultural assets
• Development of a Collections of Historical Significance Directory
• Indigenous Art Trail
• Redevelopment of the School of Arts
• Strategic Asset Management Plan for Tank 2
• Installation of climate control in Tank 5