Three Creative Projects Share in $15k Council Funding

JEFF GIBBS

Byron Shire Council has awarded $15,000 in funding to three innovative creative projects as part of its Creative Public Spaces Small Grants program for 2024. The selected projects, each receiving $5,000, are set to transform public spaces across the Shire into vibrant, engaging environments.

The recipients of this year’s grants include Public Palace, The Returning in collaboration with Arts Northern Rivers, and Bruns Riverkeepers Alliance auspiced by Mullum Seed. These projects were chosen for their potential to enrich the community through creative expressions that resonate with the local environment and culture.

Melitta Firth, Council’s Arts and Culture Offcer, highlighted the signifcance of this year’s funding, which was increased by $10,000 with the support of the Arts and Creative Industries Advisory Committee. “This is a fantastic outcome for the artists and the wider community because it means we can deliver even more diverse and creative projects in our public spaces,” Ms. Firth said. “We’re excited to see how the artists will transform everyday spaces around the Byron Shire into vibrant and engaging experiences.”

Funded Projects:

• Public Palace –Remedial Transmissions (Creative Development Phase):

This project, led by artists Grace Dewar and Laurie Oxenford, will receive $5,000 to support the research and development phase of a site-responsive, participatory public artwork in Byron Shire. The project will involve the community in creating recordings that will activate selected public spaces through a hidden, sensor-activated audio system.

• The Returning in collaboration with Arts Northern Rivers – Bulaan Dalang Galii Naa Gan Ngaa Leen Duu – Mural and Artists Residency:

Also receiving $5,000, this project is a mentoring program for emerging Indigenous creative practitioners. Over 12 months, participants will be guided by established artists and cultural leaders in professional learning sessions, artistic exploration, and cultural workshops. A mural installation in the Byron CBD will be the public outcome of this project.

• Bruns Riverkeepers Alliance auspiced by Mullum Seed – We are all Riverkeepers: This creative showcase, awarded $5,000, focuses on connecting with, caring for, and celebrating the Brunswick River. The project will