DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY The information contained in this report is intended for the specific use of the within named party to which it is addressed ("the Stratcorp Consulting client") only. All recommendations by Stratcorp Consulting are based on information provided by or on behalf of the Stratcorp Consulting client and Stratcorp Consulting has relied on such information being correct at the time this report is prepared. All recommendations contained herein must be adhered to without variation, unless otherwise agreed in writing by Stratcorp Consulting. Stratcorp Consulting shall take no responsibility for any loss or damage caused to the Stratcorp Consulting client or to any third party whether direct or consequential as a result of or in any way arising from any unauthorised use of this report or any recommendations contained herein.
stratcorp@stratcorp.com.au www.stratcorp.com.au Š Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT TO INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS City of Wagga Wagga acknowledges and respects that Indigenous Australians are the first peoples of this land and the Wiradjuri peoples are the first regional custodians of the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area. This recognition includes acceptance of the rights and responsibilities of Indigenous Australians to participate in decision making. City of Wagga Wagga acknowledges the shared responsibility of all Australians to respect and encourage the development of an awareness and appreciation of each others heritage, culture and origin. In so doing, City of Wagga Wagga recognises and respects the heritage, culture, sacred sites and special places of Indigenous Australians. City of Wagga Wagga is committed to developing programs to improve the well-being of all City of Wagga Wagga residents as well as facilitating reconciliation between Indigenous and non Indigenous residents. City of Wagga Wagga recognises that social justice and reconciliation are fundamental to achieving positive changes. City of Wagga Wagga will continue to actively encourage Indigenous and non Indigenous Australians to work together for a just and harmonious and progressive society. City of Wagga Wagga recognises the richness of Indigenous cultures and values in promoting social diversity within the community.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. 1.1. 1.2. 1.3. 1.4.
2. 3.
INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................. 1 City Description and Context..................................................................................................... 1 Study Background ..................................................................................................................... 1 Study Aim and Objectives ......................................................................................................... 2 Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................... 2
DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................. 3 CULTURAL PLAN CONTEXT......................................................................... 4
3.1. State Government ..................................................................................................................... 4 3.1.1. Priorities for the Arts: NSW Ministry for the Arts Strategic Plan (2004-2007).................... 4 3.1.2. Third Cultural Accord 2006-2008 ....................................................................................... 5 3.1.3. Other State Government Policies/Plans ............................................................................ 6 3.2. Wagga Wagga City Council ...................................................................................................... 6 3.2.1. Wagga Wagga Vision 21 (2002) ........................................................................................ 6 3.2.2. Wagga Wagga Social Plan (2003 - 2008).......................................................................... 7 3.2.3. Wagga Wagga ‘Toward 2010’............................................................................................ 7 3.2.4. Wagga Wagga Cultural Planning Strategy (1999)............................................................. 8 3.2.5. Wiradjuri Heritage Study (2002)......................................................................................... 9 3.3. Other Council Policies/Plans ................................................................................................... 10
4. 4.1. 4.2. 4.3. 4.4. 4.5. 4.6.
5. 5.1. 5.2. 5.3. 5.4. 5.5. 5.6. 5.7. 5.8.
6. 6.1. 6.2. 6.3.
7.
PARTICIAPTION TRENDS IN ARTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES .......... 11 General Trends ....................................................................................................................... 11 Participation by Adults in Cultural Activities ............................................................................ 11 Characteristics of Visitors to Selected Cultural Venues and Events....................................... 13 Participation by Children in Selected Cultural Activities.......................................................... 14 Other Relevant General ABS Statistical Data ......................................................................... 15 Wagga Wagga LGA Residents’ Visitations to Local Cultural Venues and Events ................. 15
DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF WAGGA WAGGA LGA............................... 17 Wagga Wagga LGA ................................................................................................................ 17 Age Profiles ............................................................................................................................. 17 Country of Birth ....................................................................................................................... 18 Household Type ...................................................................................................................... 18 Employment Status ................................................................................................................. 19 Wagga Wagga LGA Rural Areas ............................................................................................ 19 Income Levels ......................................................................................................................... 20 Implications of Demographics ................................................................................................. 20
EXISTING PROVISION OF CULTURAL VENUES AND PROGRAMS......... 21 Cultural Venues....................................................................................................................... 21 Education Facilities ................................................................................................................. 23 Audit of Current Programs and Services................................................................................. 23
COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION............................... 26
7.1. Process.................................................................................................................................... 26 7.2. Broad Community Consultation............................................................................................... 27 7.2.1. Resident Survey............................................................................................................... 27 7.2.2. Cultural and Recreation Forum........................................................................................ 28 7.2.3. Target Groups .................................................................................................................. 29 Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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7.3. Arts and Cultural Groups......................................................................................................... 31 7.3.1. Cultural Advisory Committee............................................................................................ 31 7.3.2. Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs (ARCC) ............................................................... 31 7.3.3. Riverina Theatre Company .............................................................................................. 32 7.3.4. School of Arts Community Theatre .................................................................................. 32 7.3.5. Wagga Art Society ........................................................................................................... 33 7.3.6. Eastern Riverina Arts Program (ERAP) ........................................................................... 33 7.4. Cultural Institutions.................................................................................................................. 34 7.4.1. Riverina Conservatorium for Music.................................................................................. 34 7.4.2. Charles Sturt University ................................................................................................... 34 7.5. Council Personnel ................................................................................................................... 35 7.5.1. General Information ......................................................................................................... 35 7.5.2. Wagga Wagga City Library .............................................................................................. 36 7.5.3. Museum of the Riverina ................................................................................................... 37 7.5.4. Civic Theatre .................................................................................................................... 38 7.5.5. Wagga Wagga Art Gallery ............................................................................................... 39 7.6. Other Information .................................................................................................................... 40
8.
WAGGA WAGGA CULTURAL PLAN........................................................... 41
8.1. Vision for Culture..................................................................................................................... 41 8.2. Strategic Focus ....................................................................................................................... 41 8.3. Principles and Values.............................................................................................................. 41 8.4. Council’s Role ......................................................................................................................... 42 8.5. Key Strategic Objectives ......................................................................................................... 42 8.6. Cultural Plan Implementation Plan.......................................................................................... 43 Actions, Responsibilities and Budgets............................................................................................. 44 Community....................................................................................................................................... 44 8.6.1. Service Delivery ............................................................................................................... 46 8.6.2. Safety and Access ........................................................................................................... 49 8.6.3. Development & Urban Forum .......................................................................................... 50 8.6.4. Natural Areas ................................................................................................................... 51 8.6.5. Economic Development ................................................................................................... 52 8.6.6. Tourism ............................................................................................................................ 52
9.
CONCLUSION ............................................................................................... 55
APPENDICES Appendix 1 – Definition of Terms Appendix 2 – Audit of Cultural Venues and Community Halls Appendix 3 – Audit of Cultural Facilities at Education Sites Appendix 4 – Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs Appendix 5 – Resident Survey Results
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1.
INTRODUCTION
1.1.
City Description and Context The Wagga Wagga Local Government Area (LGA) is located in the Riverina Region of NSW midway between Sydney and Melbourne. It is a city of mixed interests and diverse functions and provides a regional focus for major commercial, retail and business industries. In addition, the city is a major centre for educational services (Charles Sturt University and Riverina Institute of TAFE), defence services (RAAF Base and Army Recruitment training Facility) and NSW Government Public Services). The City of Wagga Wagga is the largest inland city in NSW and supports a regional catchment population of over 150,000 people. Whilst Wagga Wagga LGA has an estimated population of 58,000 people, over 90% of people reside in the Wagga Wagga urban area (or township). Although less than 10% of people live in the rural villages and surrounding rural areas, this population base is stable with most rural villages comprising viable and energetic communities. The LGA’s population is projected to rise to over 66,000 people by 2015, with most of this increase occurring within the Wagga Wagga urban area. As well as the Wagga Wagga urban area, the LGA comprises the rural villages of Collingullie, Currawarna, Humula, Ladysmith, Tarcutta, Uranquinty, Oura, Mangoplah, and Galore. The Murrumbidgee River is the City’s most important and prominent natural feature, however Wagga Wagga is widely known for its sporting culture and strong and vibrant arts community and diverse range of cultural facilities and events.
1.2.
Study Background Wagga Wagga City Council recognises and acknowledges its roles and responsibilities for the planning and provision of cultural facilities and services for the Wagga Wagga LGA, and for the Riverina Region, in general. Whilst its involvement in some instances has been (and continues to be) as a direct provider, Council is cognisant of the importance of a partnership of shared roles and responsibilities with community and other stakeholders to ensure arts and cultural opportunities continue to flourish in the region by being inclusive, diverse, viable and sustainable. In order to effectively support this leadership role, Council requires an understanding of what it currently provides and to whom, what the community’s needs and aspirations are for arts and cultural facilities and services, and what strategies are necessary to match these needs for future facility and service provision. The preparation of the Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan (2006- 2015) commenced in 2004 in parallel with the development of the Wagga Wagga Recreation & Open Space Strategy (2005 – 2015) to ensure an integrated approach and policy framework would be put in place for the future delivery of recreation and cultural services. The Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan (2006- 2015) builds on the outcomes from the 1999 Cultural Planning Strategy and is supports the Council’s current Mission Statement … “Contribute to a vibrant growing community by providing excellence in leadership, and delivery of ‘best value’ infrastructure and services, supporting quality living in an improving and sustainable environment.” This report outlines the research, analysis, strategic direction and a range of Actions to guide the planning, development and management of arts and cultural facilities and services to 2015 and beyond, in the Wagga Wagga LGA and broader Riverina Region.
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1.3.
Study Aim and Objectives The overall Study Aim was … To provide the Council, the community and other stakeholders with a strategic framework for the delivery of arts and cultural services to 2015, and beyond. The Study Objectives included:
1.4.
•
To identify existing and likely future community needs for cultural provision for the next 10 years.
•
To undertake broad consultation with all stakeholder groups to ensure that the resulting strategies are representative of the needs of the community in an inclusive way.
•
To analyse and assess the current levels of usage of Council’s cultural assets, activity venues, facilities and spaces, and to quantify unused capacity.
•
To undertake a review of community halls in the LGA, notably their social, recreational and cultural significance.
•
To define Council’s role in providing cultural facilities and activities.
•
To develop a policy framework for Council to provide quality cultural and community activity opportunities that meets the needs of Wagga Wagga LGA communities for the next 5 - 10 years.
•
To develop a 10 year plan with strategies and priorities for resource allocation.
Acknowledgements Stratcorp Consulting, a leisure planning firm, prepared the Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan (2006- 2015) and they would like to acknowledge the contribution provided by Council staff towards its preparation, particularly the Cultural Development Officer and the Executive Officers of the various cultural facilities. In addition, the members of the Arts & Cultural Advisory Group provided valuable information and feedback relating to their respective areas of interest and expertise. Finally, to those residents who participated in various community surveys and forums, and the many arts and cultural practitioners, your input and interest is both appreciated and acknowledged.
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2.
DEFINITIONS For the purposes of this Cultural Plan, the following definitions apply. Appendix 1 for an extended version of definitions and interpretations).
(Refer to
ART
Art is the product of or individuals and groups and cultural practice that involves and definable object, e.g. a music for example.
ARTIST
An artist is someone who has specialist training in his or her field (not necessarily in academic institutions), is recognised by their peers (professional practitioners working in the artform), is committed to devoting time to their artistic activity and has a history of public presentation.
COMMUNITY ART
Community art is a process through which artists and communities work together to express and/or articulate a collective vision in a creative and imaginative way. Community development is the primary aim of a Community Art process.
PUBLIC ART
Public art refers to all types of artwork located in public spaces and buildings other than galleries and museums. It may be free standing or integrated into the fabric of buildings or outdoor spaces, and can take on many forms in many different materials.
CULTURE
Culture consists of all distinctive spiritual, intellectual and emotional features which characterise a society or social group.
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Cultural heritage is a society’s culture, traditions and physical assets preserved, celebrated and/or reinterpreted from one generation to another, incorporating events and individual histories.
CULTURAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Cultural infrastructure includes cultural facilities and cultural environments, which are important in providing venues in/at which cultural activity can occur and which also provide an important focus for the arts within a community.
CULTURAL TOURISM
Cultural tourism is travel for essentially cultural motivations, including educational tours, performing arts events, festivals, pilgrimages, visits to sites and monuments, and the study of folklore, nature and art.
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
creative expression by could be defined as a the creation of a specific play, video, or piece of
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3.
CULTURAL PLAN CONTEXT The Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan has been prepared in a context which considers and supports NSW State Government policy and direction, and Wagga Wagga City Council corporate directions and planning. A review of relevant State Government and Council planning documents and previous research was completed to identify key issues and recommendations relevant to the cultural planning process.
3.1.
State Government 3.1.1. Priorities for the Arts: NSW Ministry for the Arts Strategic Plan (2004-2007) The Strategic Plan is the foundation for developing the Arts in NSW. Vision Foster a spirited arts and cultural environment which values our artists and our heritage, which builds community, excites our imagination and inspires our future. Underpinning this Vision is a Commitment to: 1. Participation – the widest possible involvement of people in the cultural life of their communities. 2. Creativity – originality, expressiveness and imagination. 3. Excellence – recognising the highest professional standards. 4. Respect – for Indigenous communities and their cultural aspirations. 5. Diversity – of practices, cultures and access needs. 6. Collaboration – working together with artists, arts organisations, all tiers of government, business and community sectors. 7. Sustainability – meeting present and future needs. 8. Quality – best practice in cultural management. The Strategic Plan describes how the notion of place has become an important organising element in cultural, social and economic terms. People want to participate in creating meaning and identity. Our community museums, libraries and locally generated cultural activities have an important part to play in this and local government will have an increasingly pivotal role to play. The Strategic Plan has adopted the following four priority areas for the arts. Under each priority area is listed those Actions considered relevant for the Wagga Wagga context. 1. Strengthening the Arts and Cultural Environment Actions include: − − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
A framework for the development of the State’s cultural infrastructure. A review of rural and regional arts provision in NSW to ensure a strong foundation for growth. Improving access to the State’s major museum collections.
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2. Innovation Actions include: − − − −
A review of support to individual artists. Developing support mechanisms for experimentation – supporting ideas, methods and products for new contexts, audiences and sites. Assessing the professional development needs of artists and arts managers. Support for strategic initiatives between particular artforms.
3. Education and Learning Actions include: − − −
Progressing the Government’s arts and education strategy, Arts Access, launched in 2003. Encouraging arts organisations and cultural institutions in audience development, effective access programs, and further co-operation and cross-fertilisation. Exploring the implications of the ageing population on arts and culture.
4. Leadership Actions include: − − −
Developing strategic partnerships across government with the aim of creating social capital and well-being, and fostering regional development. Identifying future leaders in the arts and cultural arenas and supporting their development. Establishing more informed review processes, better utilisation of staff expertise, and more effective peer support.
3.1.2. Third Cultural Accord 2006-2008 The Third Cultural Accord builds on the 1997 & 2002 Accords by maintaining and further developing the working partnership between State and Local Government and will be aligned with both Arts NSW and the Local Government / Shires Associations’ strategic plans. The Accord recognises the significant commitment both Local and State Government has towards cultural development. The following four Principles underpin this commitment, that: 1. Local and State Government are complementary partners in the development of arts and culture at a local level, and that Local Government has primary responsibility for the planning, development and operation of cultural facilities at the local level. 2. Local and regional cultural planning is integral to the establishment of shared priorities for governments and communities, and for the effective integration of State Government support for cultural activity at the community level. 3. Local and State governments continue their development of contemporary Aboriginal Culture. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
commitment
to
the
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4. Local and State Government will advocate for all spheres of government to work together to develop and provide up-to-date, easy to use and accessible public library and information services for their communities. Further to these Principles, Arts NSW and the Associations jointly undertake the following three Key Focus Areas for the Third Cultural Accord: 1. To work collaboratively to establish a new funding program for Local Government that recognizes local governments who are making a sustained commitment to the arts and culture through a cultural planning framework. 2. In recognition of the important cultural collections held by local governments, to jointly encourage greater integration of the operation of Local Government cultural facilities including libraries, museums and art galleries. 3. To jointly develop a proposal for a national strategy for Community Cultural Development through the Cultural Ministers Council.
3.1.3. Other State Government Policies/Plans The following other State Government policies and plans were also used as reference material for the study:
3.2.
•
Cultural Planning: A Handbook for Local Government (2003).
•
Policy for the Promotion and Support of Indigenous Arts & Cultural Activity in NSW (2000).
•
The Arts and Cultural Diversity (1997).
Wagga Wagga City Council 3.2.1. Wagga Wagga Vision 21 (2002) Vision 21 is a strategic planning document which outlines a future direction for the growth, development and style for the City of Wagga Wagga by planning for the future form, shape and land use arrangements for the LGA. Key issues and future directions identified in the strategy relevant for the Cultural Plan include: 1. Supports the nexus between “heritage items” (such as landscapes, places, buildings/structures and relics) and Town Planning under three category areas: − − −
Built Heritage. Aboriginal Heritage. Intangible and Moveable Heritage.
2. Advocates the key Principles and directions outlined in the 1999 Wagga Wagga Cultural Planning Strategy (refer Section 3.2.4). Vision 21 Actions relevant for the current Cultural Plan include:
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
•
Ensure that items of Heritage are preserved in a context to ensure their heritage value.
•
Acknowledge the relationship between intangible and moveable heritage within the life of the City and values held by the community.
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•
Collection Management policies need to be created to define the nature, the scope and the depth of future moveable heritage collections.
•
Traditional national and local parades or ceremonies which foster a sense of national and civic pride need to be maintained.
•
Establish a register of Community Halls and Community Centres.
•
Continue beautification and enhancement of the City and surrounds.
•
Continue to develop the social, recreational and cultural aspects of the City to ensure its attractiveness as an employment destination for individuals and families with their varying interests and aspirations.
3.2.2. Wagga Wagga Social Plan (2003 - 2008) Council has prepared a Social Plan, and the key issues identified during the public consultation and research phases of the planning process, which are relevant for the Cultural Plan include: •
There was high value placed on the provision of affordable family activities, particularly free (or low cost) events and activities in parks and the suburbs (such as concerts and festivals). Summer in the Parks and Twilight by the Lagoon received very strong support in surveys and workshops. There was a strong desire expressed to expand the program of family friendly, affordable and alcohol free events.
•
The need to ensure physical access to Council buildings and public spaces is available to all (including those people with poor mobility).
•
Existing cultural facilities are highly valued, and there is an expressed desire for improved maintenance and extension of recreation and cultural facilities.
•
The Murrumbidgee River was regularly mentioned indicating that it is considered a critical part of the sense of local identity.
•
Lack of access to opportunities to utilise and to become trained in the use of multi-media.
•
For people from rural villages, issues include a need for improved maintenance of existing recreational infrastructure, development of youth-focused infrastructure, and transport to the urban area.
The Plan contains a series of Strategies and Actions that were considered during the preparation of the Cultural Plan.
3.2.3. Wagga Wagga ‘Toward 2010’ ‘Towards 2010’ is Wagga Wagga City Council’s strategic plan which outlines its goals for the future of the Local Government Area and which will guide activity over the next five years, and beyond . The Plan is divided into three spheres: 1. Economic. 2. Environment. 3. Social. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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Each sphere has five focus areas with identified outcomes and strategies. Whilst some of the focus areas will broadly impact upon the provision of arts and cultural facilities and services within the LGA, the focus area of “Recreation and Culture” within the “Social” sphere has specific goals, outcomes and strategies, and recommendations for service and program enhancement. References under the “Recreation and Culture” focus area relevant to the preparation of the Cultural Plan include the following. Goal
A community with access to a range of cultural, sporting, educational and recreational opportunities for participation and enjoyment.
Outcomes Increased participation, ownership and membership of recreational and cultural activities. Integrated and inclusive cultural, recreational and social planning and provision of a diverse range of programs, services and facilities. A community that shares ownership of and inclusion in City’s open space, public places, recreational and cultural facilities. The economic and social benefits of recreational and cultural assets are recognised and maximised. Strategies Review adopted Memorandums of Understanding with partner organisations. Ensure the continuing integration of recreational, cultural, social and open space planning strategies to provide an overall ‘lifestyle plan’. Programs Actively involve the community in the maintenance and develop of facilities, programs and public places. Integrated and inclusive implementation of cultural, recreation, social and open space programs. Develop partnerships with community groups, cultural recreational organisations to enhance program delivery.
and
Services Provide a range of recreational, cultural and community facilities. Provide services and programs for the community that meet identified needs.
3.2.4. Wagga Wagga Cultural Planning Strategy (1999) The 1999 Cultural Planning Strategy was commissioned to explore the role of culture in the life of the Wagga Wagga community and to assess the opportunities available for community cultural development by capitalising on the unique cultural characteristics and resources in the area. The 1999 Cultural Planning Strategy built on the first cultural plan (1992) for the City, which had a facility focus. The three long term objectives identified for the Strategy include: 1. To assist Wagga Wagga in becoming a regional cultural centre for the arts in Australia. 2. To create an integrated, distinctive physical, social and cultural environment in Wagga Wagga and its environs. 3. To ensure that developments in Wagga Wagga respect and integrate community cultural values. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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The six key focus areas for Strategy are. •
Community leadership.
•
Planning and policy development.
•
Cultural industry and cultural tourism development.
•
Community cultural development programs.
•
Community advocacy, coordination and information service.
•
Cultural infrastructure.
In all, 65 Strategies and Actions were developed and a review of the status of the implementation of the plan 1 has identified that 52 recommendations have been actioned (or are ongoing or are in progress), with 13 yet to be actioned or now considered redundant (or no longer applicable). Some of these “yet to be actioned” strategies have been carried forward into the current Cultural Plan.
3.2.5. Wiradjuri Heritage Study (2002) The Wiradjuri Heritage Study was commissioned to document Wiradjuri cultural heritage in the Wagga Wagga LGA, and to provide guidance to the whole community in taking account of Wiradjuri heritage whilst planning, developing and undertaking cultural heritage activities. The Study contains a number of broad recommendations relating to the preservation, management and celebration of Wiradjuri heritage in the Wagga Wagga LGA, including the following: 1. That Wagga Wagga City Council in conjunction with the community further investigates establishing a cultural heritage “Keeping Place” in Wagga Wagga. 2. That Indigenous guides are trained to conduct tours and education programs in cultural heritage. 3. That Wagga Wagga Tourism develops a range of guided or self-guided tours throughout the LGA. 4. That a range of traditional Indigenous skills be taught or improved as a means of keeping alive and reviving traditional Indigenous culture. This to also provide the basis for education, tourism and employment in cultural heritage. 5. That Council conduct a program of cross-cultural awareness for all staff and Councillors. 6. That the Museum of Riverina and the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery concurrently conduct a Wiradjuri / Indigenous heritage display and art exhibition. 7. That Council in conjunction with Wagga Wagga Tourism and the Wagga Wagga & District Historic Society investigate the erection of signs, plaques and/or markers to indicate the location of heritage places within the LGA. An important overarching direction in the Study Report is the need to involve the Indigenous community at every stage of the planning, management and protection of historic sites and places.
1
Review undertaken by Council’s Manager Recreation & Cultural Services. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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3.3.
Other Council Policies/Plans The following other Council policies and plans were also used as reference material for the study:
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
•
City of Wagga Wagga Management Plan (2006/07).
•
Wagga Wagga Recreation & Open Space Strategy (2005 – 2015).
•
Murrumbidgee River Urban Interface - Plan of Management (2001).
•
Wiradjuri Reserve Plan of Management & Masterplan (2000).
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4.
PARTICIAPTION TRENDS IN ARTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES Several important national, state and local trends have informed the planning process and were important to consider when preparing the Cultural Plan. These trends are presented in the following sections: 1. General trends. 2. National / State trends of attendance to selected cultural venues and events. 3. Characteristics of visitors to selected cultural venues and events. 4. Participation by children in cultural activities. 5. Other relevant general ABS Statistical Data. 6. Wagga Wagga LGA residents’ visitations to local cultural venues and events.
4.1.
General Trends The following general trends are noted in relation to arts and cultural activity: •
It is widely accepted that participation in arts and cultural activity is beneficial to the health and vibrancy of community life, and that there is a link between community cultural development and community cohesion and well being.
•
There is increased interest in and commissioning of public art, particularly by local government, and consideration of its integration with urban and landscape design.
•
Increasingly, local government is looking at how they can lever community benefit from private Developers in areas such as more appropriate development and the provision of community facilities and infrastructure.
•
There is increased research and evaluation of arts and cultural attendance/patronage in order to understand visitation and participation as a means to inform programming.
•
Arts and cultural venues are increasingly being required by funding bodies to develop audiences and to increase revenue from non-government sources.
•
The number of people employed in cultural industries is growing and predicted to grow dramatically in future.
4.2.
Participation by Adults in Cultural Activities The following information identifies general attendance patterns of adults (>18 years) to selected cultural venues and events. The data is summarised from the ABS publication, Attendance at Selected Cultural Venues and Events (2002). •
In 2002, 88% of adult Australians (or 12.8 million people) attended at least one of the cultural venues and events surveyed (an increase of 4.3% since 1999, and 6.0% since 1995). For NSW, attendance was slightly less in 2002 at 86.2%.
•
Across all age groups, attendance was generally higher for women when compared to men.
•
People aged less than 35 years were most likely to attend at least one of the cultural venues and events surveyed, particularly those aged 18-24 years who had an attendance rate of 98%. The lowest attendance rate (63%) was recorded for the age group 75 years and over.
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•
The following table identifies the most popular cultural venues and events nationally in 2002, which were cinemas (69.9%), libraries (42.1%) and popular music concerts (26.4%), and makes a comparison with 1999 data and with NSW popularity in 2002.
1
Cinemas
% Nat Attendance (2002) 69.9%
2
Libraries
42.1%
36.8%
39.0%
3
Popular Music Concerts
26.4%
24.7%
27.0%
4
Museums
25.0%
19.6%
24.5%
5
Art Galleries
24.9%
20.9%
25.0%
6
Musicals and Operas
18.7%
16.3%
19.1%
7
Theatre Performances
18.0%
16.0%
17.5%
8
Dance Performances
10.9%
8.8%
11.0%
9
Classical Music Concerts
9.0%
9.0%
10.0%
20.4%
17.8%
19.5%
Rank
10
Venue / Event
Other Performing Arts
2
% Nat Attendance (1999) 65.6%
% NSW Attendance 2002 68.3%
Popular Cultural Venues and Events (Nat 2002) and Comparison with 1999 and NSW (2002)
•
The table also shows that: −
National attendance levels increased for venue and event options between 1999 and 2002, except classical music concerts which was the same.
−
Attendance levels in NSW were higher than Nationally for popular music concerts, art galleries, musicals and operas, dance performances and classical music concerts, but less for cinemas, libraries, museums and theatre performances.
•
For most venues and events, residents in the ACT recorded the highest attendance rates. When compared with all other states and territories, NSW recorded the 2nd and 3rd highest attendance rates for “classical music concerts” and “musicals and operas”, respectively, and were mid-range for all other options except “libraries” where attendance levels were the lowest of all other states and territories.
•
For most venues and events surveyed, people born overseas in the main Englishspeaking countries had significantly higher attendance rates than those born in Australia or in other countries.
•
Employed people (and particularly those employed part-time) had significantly higher attendance rates at most venues and events than people who were unemployed or not in the labour force. However, for libraries, unemployed people had the highest attendance rate, with 60% having visited a national, state or local library in the previous 12 months.
•
People with higher qualifications were more likely to attend cultural venues and events.
2
“Other Performing Arts” includes clowns, circuses, magicians, comedians, poetry readers, etc. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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•
4.3.
There was a strong relationship between the level of gross household income (adjusted to allow for the number of people in the household) and attendance at cultural venues and events. For each of the 12 venues and events surveyed, residents with household income in the highest quintile reported the highest attendance rates. Generally, as gross household income decreased, so too did attendance rates.
Characteristics of Visitors to Selected Cultural Venues and Events Cinemas •
Cinema attendance declined with age.
•
Overall, the attendance rate for females (72%) was slightly higher than the rate for males (68%).
•
The highest attendance rates for cinema were recorded for people who: − − −
were in couple families with dependent children or in one-parent families with dependent children (both 77%). were employed (80%). were in the highest equivalised household income quintile (88%).
Libraries •
Visitations to libraries were relatively stable across all groups, peaking at 47.4% for people aged 35-44 years to a low of 33.7% for people aged 75 years and over.
•
Females (50%) were much more likely than males (35%) to visit a library.
•
The highest attendance rates for libraries were recorded for people who: − − −
•
were born overseas in the main English speaking countries (49%). were unemployed (60%) or working part-time (54%). (household income had no impact).
Other information about library use 3 shows that during 2003/04, there were 105 million visits to local government, national and state libraries, representing an average of 5 visits per head of population. This compares with 1999/00 when there were an average 4.9 visits per head of population for the year, and 1996/97 at 4.6 visits per head of population.
Museums •
Overall, males and females had similar attendance rates to museums (approximately 25%).
•
Visitations to museums were highest for mid age groups (25-64 years).
•
The highest attendance rates for museums were recorded for people who: − − − −
were in couple families with dependent children (27%). were born overseas in the main English speaking countries (30%). were employed (28%). were in the highest equivalised household income quintile (38%).
Art Galleries •
The higher attendance rate for females (28%) than for males (22%) at art galleries was evident across all age groups.
3
Source: Public Libraries: Australia (03/04). Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Page 13
•
Attendance rates generally increased with age until age 65 years.
•
The highest attendance rates for art galleries were recorded for people who: − − −
were born overseas in the main English speaking countries (29%). were working part-time (31%). were in the highest equivalised household income quintile (40%).
Theatre Performances •
Visitations to theatre performances were stable (average 18.9%) across all groups up to 65 years, where there was decline (to a low of 10.3% for people aged 75 years and over).
•
Females (21%) recorded higher attendance rates than males (15%) across all age groups.
•
The highest attendance rates at theatre performances were recorded for people who: − −
were working part-time (24%). were in the highest equivalised household income quintile (29%).
Classical Music Concerts •
Females (10%) were slightly more likely than males (8%) to attend classical music concerts.
•
The age group 55-64 years recorded the highest attendance rate (13%), over double the attendance rate of those aged 18-24 years (6%).
•
The highest attendance rates for classical music concerts were recorded for people who: − −
4.4.
were born overseas in the main English speaking countries (11.5%). were in the highest equivalised household income quintile (15%).
Participation by Children in Selected Cultural Activities The following information is summarised from the ABS publication, Children’s Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities (April 2003) and identifies the following general participation patterns of children in cultural and other leisure activities. •
In April 2003 and outside of school hours, it is estimated that of all Australian children aged 5-14 years: − − − −
•
99.8% participated in selected leisure activities, the most frequent activities being watching television or videos, reading for pleasure and playing electronic or computer games. 62% participated in organised sport. 29% were involved in selected organised cultural activities 4 . 29% did not participate in organised sport or selected organised cultural activities.
There was an overall increase in the participation rate for girls in organised cultural activities from 40% in 2000 to 43% in 2003. The increase was largely attributable to an increase for dancing. Similarly, participation in art and craft activities increased for girls from 55% in 2000 to 61% in 2003.
4
“Organised cultural activities” = playing a musical instrument, singing, dancing and drama. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Page 14
•
By contrast, for boys there was an overall decrease in the participation rate in organised cultural activities from 20% in 2000 to 17% in 2003, but an increase in art and craft activities from 34% in 2000 to 39% in 2003.
•
Of the 29% of Australian children aged 5-14 years who were involved in selected organised cultural activities in April 2003: − − − −
4.5.
17% played a musical instrument (NSW ranked 4th state/territory with 17.2%). 12% participated in dancing (NSW ranked 1st with 13.9%). 5% were involved in singing (NSW ranked 7th with 4.3%). 4% were involved in drama (NSW ranked equal 6th with 3.3%).
•
These activities were more popular with girls than boys, with over 4 in 10 girls (43%) involved in at least one of the selected cultural activities, compared with 17% of boys.
•
Dancing was the most popular of these activities for girls (24%), but the least popular for boys (2%). For boys, the most popular activity was playing a musical instrument (13%).
•
7% of children (2% of boys, 12% of girls) participated in more than one organised cultural activity.
•
Comparing age groups, children aged 9-11 years had the highest participation rate (36%) in selected cultural activities, followed by children aged 12-14 years (30%) and children aged 5-8 years (24%).
Other Relevant General ABS Statistical Data Some recent statistics include:
4.6.
•
The 2001 Census found that 3.1% (or 259,909 people) were employed in Australia in a cultural occupation, slightly higher than the 1991 Census (3.0%).
•
In 2001, it was estimated that 95,444 people in NSW were working in cultural occupations.
•
In 2000, an estimated 16.8% (or 2.5 million people) were involved in some form of paid or unpaid work relating to culture or leisure.
•
The Voluntary Work Survey by ABS (2000) found that organisations categorised as “sport and physical education”, “education, training and youth development” and “community and welfare”, each received help from about 1 million people aged 18 years and over. By comparison 280,200 people undertook voluntary work for cultural organisations. The most common type of cultural involvement was with organisations involved in the performing arts (102,600 people, or 34% of all cultural involvement).
Wagga Wagga LGA Residents’ Visitations to Local Cultural Venues and Events An indication of the level of visitations to Wagga Wagga cultural venues and events was ascertained using data collected from 229 face-to-face interviews with local residents. The survey was conducted in May 2006 at various locations within the Wagga Wagga urban area retail and commercial precinct. The table on the following page shows how often respondents visited selected cultural venues in Wagga Wagga. Key results include:
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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•
The Wagga Wagga City Library is the venue most visited by residents in the previous year (68%), which is significantly higher than the 2002 NSW average (39%).
•
Second most visited venue is the Civic Theatre at 29% (compared to the NSW average of 17.5%), followed by the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery at 24% (compared to the NSW average of 25%).
•
The Museum of the Riverina and the Riverina Conservatorium of Music recorded the highest percentage of people who indicated that they “never visit” the venue.
Facility
Never
Wagga Wagga City Library Wagga Art Gallery Museum of the Riverina Hall of Fame and Museum National Art Glass Gallery Civic Centre The Basement Theatre Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music
21% 35% 55% 38% 41% 29% 44% 41% 47%
Weekly or 2-3 times Few times more per month a year 2% 33% 33% 0% 3% 21% 0% 1% 8% 0% 0% 4% 0% 1% 4% 0% 3% 26% 0% 0% 6% 0% 0% 6% 0% 0% 2%
Hardly Ever 10% 36% 18% 15% 17% 32% 8% 14% 7%
Please note that percentages for each venue do not total 100% as the figures have been calculated as a percentage of the total number surveyed (229). Attendance Levels at Selected Wagga Wagga Cultural Venues (by survey)
Other relevant data from the survey in relation to people’s participation in cultural activity includes: •
5% of respondents are active members of arts and cultural clubs.
•
35% participate in an arts and cultural program or service, or attended a performance or an event, compared to the 2002 NSW average of 86.2%.
•
Of those who attended an annual festival or event held in the Wagga Wagga LGA, the most popular events were the Wagga Food & Wine Festival (14%) and the National Horse Festival (14%), followed by the Wagga Jazz Festival (11%). (See following table).
Festival/Event Wagga Jazz Festival Summer in the Park Concert Series National Horse Festival Re:generate youth arts festival Carols by Candlelight Wagga Food and Wine Festival Wagga Gold Cup Meeting Twilight by the Lagoon Concerts Total
Frequency 26 11 31 4 19 33 19 7 150
% of total surveyed 11% 5% 14% 2% 8% 14% 8% 3%
Please note that the total percentage does not sum to 100% as the figures have been calculated as a percentage of the total number surveyed (229). Attendance at Selected Wagga Wagga Festivals and Events (by survey)
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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5.
DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF WAGGA WAGGA LGA The demographic profile of the Wagga Wagga LGA was reviewed to identify population characteristics and trends important when assessing possible future directions for the Cultural Plan. The data was sourced from a combination of:
5.1.
•
Basic Community Profile, 2001 ABS Census.
•
The People of Wagga Wagga (prepared by Wagga Wagga City Council), 2004.
•
Wagga Wagga Vision 21, May 2002.
Wagga Wagga LGA The estimated 2001 population of the Wagga Wagga LGA was 56,722 people, a marginal increase of 642 people (or 1.1%) on the 1996 census figure. This percentage increase is less than for all of NSW, which had growth of 5.5% for the same period. The estimated 2004 population was 57,600 people 5 . Of the total population in 2001, 90.8% (or 51,504 people) reside in the Wagga Wagga urban area, and 9.2% (5,218) in the rural villages and surrounding areas. The LGA-wide population is predicted to increase to over 64,000 by 2015, with the urban population increasing to approximately 59,200 people 6 . The growth areas are in the north (Estella, Boorooma and Cartwrights Hill), and the south west (Glenfield Park, Bourkelands, Lloyd and Tatton).
5.2.
Age Profiles The highest proportion of people living in the Wagga Wagga LGA are aged 25 - 44 years (27.7%), followed by the 0 - 14 age cohort (22.4%) and the 45 - 64 age cohort (20.2%). When compared to the age structure profile for all of NSW, the Wagga Wagga LGA has a “younger” community profile, that is, there are higher proportions of the population aged below 25 years, particularly in the 15 – 24 years cohort. (See following graph)
% of population
35 30 25 20
Wagga
15
NSW
10 5 0 0-14 years
15-24 years
25-44 years
45-64 years
65 years +
Age Categories (years) Age Profile Wagga Wagga vs NSW (2001)
5
Source: Wagga Wagga Management Plan (2006/07). Source: Based on 1% growth scenario (Community Profile 2004 – Wagga Wagga). Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council 6
Page 17
The median age of the population in 2001 was 31 years. This has increased since 1996, when the median age was 29 years. The median age for all of NSW was 35 years in 2001, which further emphasises the “young” profile of the population. The higher proportion of young adults and children in the Wagga Wagga LGA can be largely attributed to the presence of the Charles Sturt University, the Riverina Institute of TAFE and the Defence Forces training bases. These institutions typically attract large numbers of young people. Gender distribution across all age categories is generally even, with the exception of the 65+ years age group, which has significantly more females than males.
5.3.
Country of Birth A majority (93.5%) of Wagga Wagga LGA residents were Australian-born which is significantly higher than for all of NSW at 75.1%. Anecdotal evidence suggests, however, that Wagga Wagga LGA is currently experiencing an increase in the number of overseas born residents. Whilst the 2006 Census data will be the first opportunity to validate this perceived increase in cultural diversity, there will be positive implications for the arts and cultural sector if an increase in diversity is occurring. Of the people born overseas, no one particular country of birth is dominant. People born in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the Netherlands were the dominant cultural clusters in 2001. In 2001, there were 1,767 Indigenous people in the Wagga Wagga LGA (or 3.2% of the population), which is higher than for all of NSW at 1.9%. This was an increase of 331 people since 1996.
5.4.
Household Type 2% 17%
46%
Couple families with children Couple families without children One parent families Other families
35%
Household Type in Wagga Wagga LGA (2001)
A majority (46%) of the “family” households in the Wagga Wagga LGA comprise of “couple families with children”, followed by “couple families without children” (35%). 17% of families were “one parent families”. There is no significant difference between the proportion of family types in Wagga Wagga and all of NSW. The proportion of “family” households as a percentage of all households in Wagga Wagga (71.9%) is marginally less than for all of NSW (72.8%), whilst the proportion of “lone person” households is similar (23.6% in Wagga Wagga to 23.4% in NSW).
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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5.5.
Employment Status In the Wagga Wagga LGA, 92.4% of people in the workforce were employed on a fulltime or part-time basis, with 7.6% being unemployed. The following table shows the primary occupations of those people in the work force. It indicates that there is a higher percentage (16.7%) of the workforce working as tradespersons than NSW as a whole (11.9%). As well as tradespeople, the other high employment areas are “professionals” and “clerical/sales”, which is consistent with the importance of Wagga Wagga being a major regional centre providing services to a large catchment of people.
20 15
Wagga
10
NSW
Labourers and Related Workers
Intermediate Clerical, Sales and Service
Tradespersons
Associate Professionals
0
Professionals
5 Managers and Administrators
Percentage
25
Occupation Occupation
Type in Wagga Wagga LGA vs NSW (2001)
5.6.
Wagga Wagga LGA Rural Areas The total number of people in the Wagga Wagga LGA that live in villages or other rural areas is 5,223 (or 9.2% of the total population). The table below shows the breakdown of rural and village populations.
Rural Village
Number Percentage
Collingullie
151
3%
Currawarna
104
2%
Humula
109
2%
Ladysmith
198
4%
Mangoplah
95
2%
Oura
132
3%
Tarcutta
263
5%
Uranquinty
637
12%
Total Villages
1,700
33%
Rural - General
3,523
67%
Total
5,223
100%
Rural and Village Populations (2001) Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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5.7.
Income Levels The median weekly individual income for people aged 15 years and over in the Wagga Wagga LGA is $300 - $399. This is the same figure recorded for all of NSW.
5.8.
Implications of Demographics The Wagga Wagga LGA demographic profile has the following likely implications for arts and cultural provision across the municipality: •
The population is increasing (estimated additional 8,000 people in the next 10 years), which will require continued expansion of arts and cultural activities, services and events to cater for additional participants/users. In some instances, the projected increase in population may necessitate either new or expanded/upgraded facility provision, e.g. community centres, libraries and flexible hire or performance spaces.
•
The increased ethnicity of the population is likely to create new opportunities for cultural exchange and appreciation between Australian-born residents and overseas born residents across a number of different arts, cultural and social areas.
•
Just under half the Wagga Wagga LGA population is aged between 10 - 40 years, a range which includes the age cohorts which have high participation in cultural activities and visitations to cultural venues and events.
•
There is currently a low proportion of people born overseas compared to all of NSW, and this profile suggests there will be continued demand for participation in cultural activities and visitations to cultural venues and events.
•
The average level of income of Wagga Wagga LGA residents (when compared to all of NSW) and the good level of employment, are both indicators which suggest that the overall community will continue to attend in good numbers the range of cultural venues and events currently available in Wagga Wagga. (Assumption based on the characteristics of visitors to cultural venues – refer section 4.3). Notwithstanding this, it is acknowledged that there are pockets of low income earners within the Wagga Wagga LGA. The needs of these people will have to be carefully considered as they will generally not be expected to attend cultural venues so their involvement in some instances may require support through the provision of free or low cost arts and cultural opportunities (such as locally based festivals, events and performances at community halls/centres).
•
As there is overall ageing of the population, there may be increased demand for attendances to and visitations to the art galleries, theatre performances and classical music concerts.
•
There is a higher proportion of children aged under 14 years in Wagga Wagga compared to all of NSW. Given that broad trends across Australia indicate an increasing participation in organised music, dance and drama activities by children of this age cohort, it can be expected with some confidence that demand may continue to grow for tutors, teachers and instructors in Wagga Wagga who specialise in these cultural activities, and for the availability of appropriate venue spaces to conduct both lessons and performances. The library is currently a location for individual tutors who work one on one or with small groups.
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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6.
EXISTING PROVISION OF CULTURAL VENUES AND PROGRAMS This section provides an overview and high-level assessment of the current provision of cultural venues and programs, irrespective of whether they are owned/delivered by Council or other public/private groups. Whilst the aim of the audit was to identify all venues and programs, the inherent depth and breadth of provision of cultural services throughout the City of Wagga Wagga and the broader region has no doubt resulted in some services being unintentionally omitted.
6.1.
Cultural Venues The Wagga Wagga LGA features a vast range of arts and cultural venues in relation to function, quality, ownership and management. The following list provides a snapshot of the facilities and spaces known to be used regularly for organised arts and cultural activities. The list has been classified according to ownership, and where a facility has been asterisk (**), more detailed information is available in Appendix 2. Schools have been audited separately (see Section 6.1.1).
Council-Owned / Managed
Other Public / Private Sector Group
Wagga Wagga Urban Area •
Wagga Wagga City Library**
•
Riverina Playhouse**
•
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery**
•
Small Street Society)
•
National Art Glass Gallery
•
Arts Studio (Riverina Institute of TAFE)
•
Museum of the Riverina (Historic Council Chamber)**
•
Riverina Conservatorium of Music (CSU)**
•
Museum of the Riverina (Willans Hill)**
•
HR Gallop Gallery (CSU)
•
Civic Theatre**
•
Booranga Writers Centre (CSU)
•
Basement Theatre** Music Bowl**
•
Forum 6 Cinema
•
Wollundry Amphitheatre**
•
Willy Sheather Gallery
•
Wollundry Amphitheatre**
•
Docker Street Art Gallery
•
Performance Gardens)**
•
Wagga Potters Shop
•
Association of Riverina Cultural (Building)** (managed by ARCC)
•
Wagga Steam & Vintage Museum
•
North Wagga Public Hall (managed by Riverina Young People’s Theatre)
•
Capital Entertainment Centre
•
Glenfield Community Centre
•
Romano’s Hotel
•
Lake Albert Hall
•
Selected Other Clubs and Hotels
•
Wagga Wagga Senior Citizens Centre
•
Selected Church Halls
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Space
(Victory
Memorial Clubs’
Studio
(Wagga
Art
Page 21
Council-Owned / Managed
Other Public / Private Sector Group
Rural Villages / Rural Balance •
Riverside Studio & Gallery, Currawarna (Jenny Newbound)
•
RAAF Museum, Forest Hill (RAAF Base)
Currawarna Community Hall** (locally managed)
•
Oberne Hall**
Oura Hall** (locally managed)
•
Humula Hall**
•
Downside Hall**
•
Euberta Hall **
•
Collingullie Hall**
•
Uranquinty Hall**
•
Ladysmith Hall**
•
Mangoplah Hall**
•
Brookdale Hall**
•
Tarcutta Hall** (locally managed)
•
Galore Hall** (locally managed)
• •
The key information from this audit shows that: •
Aside from a private artist studio and the RAAF Museum, all other purpose-built arts and cultural facilities are located in the Wagga Wagga urban area.
•
The key community facilities available in the rural villages are multipurpose halls. The inventory and assessment of use of community halls shows a large variance exists between villages in relation to the use of their local hall. Most use is limited to social activities and local community group meetings, and whilst these are appropriate uses, there appears capacity to increase the diversity of use into areas such as arts & craft and cultural activities/shows.
•
The cultural venues located within the Civic Precinct are all high quality facilities which have been either constructed or refurbished within the previous 7 years. Information gathered on usage suggests that all venues have been experiencing sustained increases in patronage during the past 5 years, which is reflective of both the high standard of facility provision and the sound management of the facilities by staff and associated Advisory Committees.
•
All Council staff teams which are managing the facilities have recently prepared management/strategic plans to guide future management, use and development. These plans should be continually reviewed in the context of changing community (customer) needs, the availability of external funding/grants from peak bodies, industry sector trends, and diversification of services.
•
The location of all of the major cultural facilities within the Civic Precinct is both a strength and weakness: a strength in that co-location creates significant opportunities for cross promotion and market sharing, and a weakness in that the suburbs and rural villages don’t have the opportunity to benefit from having an “attractor” or iconic facility within their environs from which other associated
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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enterprises might benefit or from which local interest in a particular cultural activity might grow and foster.
6.2.
Education Facilities A telephone interview was carried out with all primary and secondary schools located within the LGA, and with the two tertiary institutions, to identify any arts and cultural facilities at education sites and the whether the facilities are available for broad community use. The table in Appendix 3 shows the number and type of facilities provided at education sites, and where facilities are/aren’t available for community use. The key information from this research shows that: •
Most schools have a multipurpose hall which is used for concerts, plays and other school functions.
•
All schools which have facilities also make them available for community use during out of school hours. The two tertiary sites restrict general community use of two facilities (the arts studio at the TAFE and the HR Gallop Gallery at CSU) due to student needs.
•
Almost all urban area and rural primary schools which have facilities available for community use, currently have regular external users. Users are generally private dance and recreation groups or church groups.
•
The following schools permit their facilities to be utilised by external community groups, however, do not currently have groups using them. − − − −
6.3.
Forest Hill Public (hall). Kildare Catholic College (hall). Mater Dei Catholic School (performing arts centre). Wagga Wagga High School (amphitheatre).
Audit of Current Programs and Services This section provides an overview of the existing arts and cultural programs and services available within the LGA, either being provided directly by Council, facilitated by Council (through provision of facilities and/or grants), or provided by other public/private groups.
Facility / Organisation
Programs and Services
Direct Council Provision Various Council Departments (other than venues)
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Programs: Annual Grants Program, Twilight by the Lagoon, Summer in the Park Program Services: Cultural planning and advocacy, education and training, cultural tourism development, cultural promotion (website, brochures, self-guided tours, referral, etc), management of use of Wollundry Amphitheatre, Music Bowl, the performance space in Victory Memorial Gardens, and other appropriate outdoor spaces Events: Australia Day, Children’s Week, Little Big Day Out, Re:generate Youth Festival, Youth Events (Battle of the Bands, Loud by the Lagoon, Gig in the Park, Alive Festival, Black Sons Event) Page 23
Facility / Organisation
Wagga Wagga City Library
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery (includes National Art Glass Gallery)
Museum of the Riverina (both sites)
Civic Theatre (includes the Basement)
Programs and Services Other: Strategic alliances and partnerships, cultural facility maintenance and development (Council-owned), sponsorship and support for the arts and events Programs: Storytime, youth events, school holiday programmes, school orientation tours, author talks, book launches, poetry readings, seminars/workshops, internet lessons, one on one training… Services: Readers Advisory, information services, circulation of the collection; Children’s and Youth Services; Adults and Seniors Services; Local History Service; Family History service; Indigenous and Multicultural Service; Inter Library Loans; internet access; Mobile Library; online services (public catalogue, online databases, and the Community Directory). Collections: - books, magazines, music cds, DVDs, books on MP3 and cd, ESL materials; the Local Studies collection including the nationally significant Tichborne Collection, and age specific collections. Other: Exhibitions, launches, civic events, special focus weeks, and we collaborate, support and promote Council’s cultural services, and community organizations and events. The Toy Library has access from the Children’s Area in the Library. Programs: Collection exhibitions, travelling exhibitions, Artist Floor Talks, Activart, Little Picasso Club, workshops, school holiday activities Services: Collection management, local artist exhibitions, sale of artist equipment/materials Other: Exhibition openings, civic/corporate/private functions, special focus week activities, industry forums Programs: Collection exhibitions, travelling exhibitions, Sporting Hall of Fame display, workshops, school holiday activities Services: Collection management, regional outreach advisory/professional development service, meetings venue, venue for public program and events Other: Civic events, special focus week activities, launches Services: Facilitating the presentation of professional and amateur performances (dance, drama, music), centralised events bookings service (regional), school/community performances and events. Program and present a annual theatre season consisting of a variety of professional touring and local productions targeting a diverse section of the community. Other: Civic events, conference and seminar venue, special focus week activities, corporate/private functions, launches
Riverina Conservatorium of Music
Programs: Music tuition, industry conferences and workshops, Summer School for Strings and other intensive training courses Services: Instrumental recitals and music concerts
Association of Riverina Cultural
Fostering community-based arts and hobby activities, displays, demonstrations, tutorials, classes and Page 24
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Facility / Organisation
Programs and Services
Clubs (ARCC)
workshops See Appendix 4 for list of member groups of the ARCC and associated activities
Charles Sturt University (CSU)
Tertiary education and sector research through the School of Visual and Performing Arts across a range of cultural mediums including television production, graphic design, multi-media, photography, design for stage and screen, acting and fine art Partner in the planning and delivery of cultural services (with Council and other stakeholders) Manage the HR Gallop Gallery
Community-based arts & cultural groups
The following groups provide low-cost, membershipbased support for arts and cultural activities:
(excluding those listed above and listed in Appendix 4 as members of ARCC)
Eastern Riverina Arts Program
Community Centres and Halls (Over 20 Council and community managed facilities)
− − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − −
Riverina Theatre Company. University Theatre Ensemble. Riverina Young People’s Theatre. School of Arts Community Theatre. Wimage Street Theatre Company. Gearstick Theatre. Children’s Theatre Workshop Wagga Arts Society. Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society. Australian Army Band (RAAF). Riverina Concert Band. Murrumbidgee String Orchestra. Wagga Accordian Club. Riverina Independent Filmmakers. Wagga Shakespeare Club. Wagga Wagga Writers’ Writers. Wagga Eisteddfod Society. Danceplant.
Provides support, education and advocacy for arts and cultural programs and projects throughout the Riverina region. Community groups and private sector offer a variety of cultural and recreational programs and services, including festivals, displays, debutant balls, school concerts, yoga and gentle exercise classes.
The key information from this audit shows that: •
There is a comprehensive range of public and private/professional arts and cultural services and programs available in Wagga Wagga.
•
Services range from professional development and educational (for participants), to exhibitions and displays (for audience).
•
Whilst Council has made (and continues to make) a significant investment in the provision and management of cultural venues and the provision of services, a large proportion of the arts and cultural programming is provided by non-for-profit community groups and individuals.
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7.
COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION
7.1.
Process Stratcorp Consulting organised and facilitated a series of consultation processes with residents from the Wagga Wagga LGA and other key stakeholders. Some of the consultation with residents, Council staff and other stakeholders with a specific interest in and focus for arts and culture took place as joint meetings or workshops with recreation and sport stakeholders in 2004 and 2005 (as part of the research phase for the Wagga Wagga Recreation and Open Space Strategy). The information gathered during these processes has been reported in this section. Other consultation with residents, groups, Council staff and other interested organisations targeted specific issues, opportunities and aspirations relating to the provision of arts and cultural facilities and programs. The outcomes from these processes have also been reported in this section. Generally speaking, a comprehensive approach was adopted for the consultation and incorporated a number of different techniques to interact with residents, organised groups and peak body organisations. This was designed to ensure that a wide cross section of people and interested parties were given an opportunity to provide input into the future planning for arts and cultural provision for the Wagga Wagga LGA. The following table summarises the consultation processes undertaken.
Target Group
Consultative Technique
Broad Community
Infield Survey (229 interviews) Cultural & Recreation Forum (13 attendees) Cultural Advisory Group – Meetings (x 3)
Cultural Groups
Target Population Groups
ARCC Groups Interviews (15) Private/Public Institutions Groups (7) Indigenous Meeting (5 attendees) Disability Meeting (5 attendees) Young Families Meeting (7 attendees) Older Adults Meeting (4 attendees) Young People Workshops (45 students)
Schools/Tertiary
Interviews (31 LGA schools/tertiary sites)
Council Personnel
Cultural staff interviews/meetings Venue Directors interviews/meetings
The following sections outline the results of the consultation process.
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
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7.2.
Broad Community Consultation Consultation with and input from the broad community was undertaken by: 1. Resident survey. 2. Cultural and Recreation Forum. 3. Submissions. The key results from these processes are reported below.
7.2.1. Resident Survey A resident survey to assess current patterns of participation in arts and cultural activities, and levels of satisfaction was undertaken in May 2006. The survey involved 229 face-to-face interviews with local residents and was conducted at various locations within the Wagga Wagga urban area retail and commercial precinct. (See Appendix 5 for complete results). The key outcomes from the survey are: •
There was high awareness amongst respondents of the Wagga Wagga City Library (98%), Wagga Wagga Art Gallery (95%), the Civic Theatre (91%) and the Museum-Historic Council Chamber (82%).
•
There was lower awareness of the Riverina Conservatorium of Music (55%), Museum-Willans Hill (58%), the Basement Theatre (59%), the Riverina Playhouse (61%) and the National Art Glass Gallery (63%).
•
The Wagga Wagga City Library is the venue most visited by those who are aware of it (at 78%), followed by the Civic Theatre (68%) and the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery (64%). Further, 33% of Library users visit it 2-3 times per month.
•
The Museum of the Riverina and the Riverina Conservatorium of Music recorded the highest percentage of people who indicated that they “never visit” the venue.
•
There were high levels of satisfaction by users across all facilities.
•
5% of respondents (or 12 people) are active members of arts and cultural clubs.
•
35% of respondents participate in arts and cultural programs or services, or attend performances and events.
•
Of those who do participate in or attend in cultural activities, more attended performances or events rather than participated in programs.
•
Of those who do not participate in or attend cultural activities (65% of respondents), the key constraints identified were: − − − − − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
“don’t know what is available” (39%). “not interested” (31%). “family/work commitments” (24%). “what I like is not available” (16%). “lack of transport” (7%). “cost” (6%). Page 27
•
65% of respondents are satisfied with the current provision of arts and cultural opportunities available in Wagga Wagga LGA, with 10% not satisfied (25% “don’t know/no response).
•
In relation to the Civic Theatre, the type of shows respondents would like to go to include “drama performances” (31%), “musicals” (15%) and “comedy shows” (14%). (36% “don’t know” as they do not go there).
•
In relation to the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, when asked what type of exhibitions they would like to see more of, 32% of respondents indicated that they were generally satisfied with the current range. Of those that provided options, “Koori or traditional art” was the most favoured followed by “abstract art”. (48% “don’t know” as they do not go there).
•
Respondents were asked which festivals and events they attended regularly. The Wagga Food & Wine Festival (14%) was the most popular, followed by the National Horse Festival (14%), the Wagga Jazz Festival (11%), Carols and the Wagga Gold Cup (both 8%), and Summer in the Park Concert Series (5%).
•
When asked about any other comments or suggestions for the future provision of arts and cultural services, 14 respondents indicated that there needed to be “improved advertising and promotion of events” and 11 people suggested more children/youth activities were required.
7.2.2. Cultural and Recreation Forum Key feedback from the Cultural Forum included: •
Cultural facilities and services well utilised and highly valued by the community include: − − − − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Wollundry Amphitheatre (variety of events). Wagga Wagga City Library (“so many things other than a library”). Museum of the Riverina (excellent travelling exhibitions, links well to local community, Willans Hill site not so well known). Wagga Wagga Art Gallery (good permanent displays and provides for artists) and the National Art Glass Gallery. Civic Theatre.
•
Limitations of current library service, including restricted hours and access (outreach service).
•
Poor communication between Council and community groups (advocacy and advice could improve).
•
The perception of people in rural villages is that services are inwards focused, that is, City people do not attend rural events, e.g. Ladysmith Flower Show.
•
There is a lack of maintenance of cultural facilities, including high quality venues in the urban area and the local Community Halls.
•
Suggested that there is a need for an increased appreciation and development of indigenous cultural heritage, and the emerging diversity of communities in Wagga Wagga. Page 28
7.2.3. Target Groups The key feedback from each of the various target sector groups consulted is summarised below. Indigenous People •
Some target-specific programming is available, but is funding dependent.
•
Key issues affecting, or likely to affect, the ability and capacity of indigenous people to participate in cultural activities, include: − − − − −
•
Financial constraints. Transport. Transience of Indigenous people. Communication/awareness of “what’s on”. Poor River amenities. Suggestions for new/improved services included:
− − −
Public art and heritage site interpretation. Improved transport. Improved facilities along the Murrumbidgee River, e.g. paths, shade and interpretive signage.
People with a Disability •
Generally, there is good provision of services/programs/facilities for people with a disability/carers.
•
Key issues for PWD include: − − − −
Transport services (particularly from rural areas). Accessibility of some facilities (e.g. Civic Theatre only has 25 places for wheelchairs) or associated outdoor areas (e.g. parking, ramps and toilets). Arranging respite for carers. Poor communication / awareness of “what’s on”.
Older Adults •
Good provision of cultural facilities suitable for older adults (e.g. Senior Citizens Community Centre, cinema), and a range of services and organised groups (e.g. art displays and classes in the Masonic Hall, line dancing, Seniors Week activities, theatre groups).
•
Key issues for this group include: − − − −
•
Suggestions for new/improved facilities and services included: − − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Improved transport services. Access to Senior Citizens Centre (too busy). Affordability (for some). Awareness of what is available (poor communication and promotion).
Additional community centres (or hire facilities) in the suburbs. Additional writing and history classes. Internet lessons. Page 29
Families and Young People •
Current provision of services/programs/facilities for young families/youth includes after school programs, “Loud in the Library”, “Gig in the Garden”, Storytime, Riverina Young Peoples Theatre Group and activities at the PCYC.
•
Key issues for young families include: − − − − −
Transport services (particularly from rural areas). Cost of services. Poor condition of some Halls. Transient population of young families (defence, tertiary). Poor community attitude towards youth.
School Students 7 •
Students are currently accessing the Wagga Wagga City Library, the PCYC, Youth Voice and TAFE holiday activity programs.
•
Students identified the following new cultural facilities/services for Wagga Wagga:
−
Evening functions and events (discos, bands, foam parties) in a quality venue such as the Leagues Club. Drive In/Outdoor Movies. Video Arcade e.g. Intencity, Time Zone. Performance and rehearsal space for local bands. Internet Café.
− − − − •
Key issues affecting the ability and capacity of students to participate or engage in cultural activities include: − − −
Transport – especially of an evening and on Sunday’s. The transport network is not extensive enough and does not service the new residential areas well. Cost to use facilities, e.g. Cinema. Awareness of events – increase promotion through community notice boards, radio and Council website.
People from Diverse Communities An interview was carried out with a member of the Multicultural Council.
7
•
The Multicultural Council was founded 17 years ago to advocate for and assist people from multicultural backgrounds and New Arrivals. The group coordinates the “Harmony Day” celebrations in Wagga Wagga and the combined African multicultural fellowship as activities to provide social connectedness and integration.
•
There has been an increase in the number of people migrating to Wagga Wagga from overseas countries, particularly Somalia, Horn of Africa, Liberia, Sudan and Ethiopia.
•
Programs and course (English) are currently available at the Riverina Community College and the Riverina Institute of TAFE.
•
Increased need identified for establishing events for cultural celebrations.
Two forums were held with students in years 10, 11 and 12 from Kooringal High School and Mt Austin High School. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Page 30 Wagga Wagga City Council
7.3.
Arts and Cultural Groups Consultation was carried out with the following arts and cultural groups: 1. Cultural Advisory Committee. 2. Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs (ARCC). 3. Riverina Theatre Company. 4. School of Arts Community Theatre. 5. Wagga Arts Society. 6. Eastern Riverina Arts Program. The key outcome from these meetings/interviews is summarised below.
7.3.1. Cultural Advisory Committee •
Unfilled potential for synergy between arts mediums.
•
Exploit connection with the Murrumbidgee River – Wagga to be known as “River City”.
•
Increase opportunities for visual artists.
•
Improve City celebrations, such as Harmony Day and the Sister City program.
•
Increase the celebration of Koori history.
•
There is an increasing emergence of new cultures in Wagga Wagga.
•
Improve opportunities for “fine dining” in Wagga Wagga.
•
Consider the cultural needs of the transient population (Forces, students).
•
Lack of appropriate cultural spaces/assets/equipment in Rural Villages (inequity with the urban area).
•
Utilise unique open space areas/historic features for cultural development and/or activities (e.g. Hampden Bridge and the Railways, Oura Beach and the Truck Memorial).
7.3.2. Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs (ARCC)
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
•
The Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs (ARCC) is a collective of small community-based arts groups. It formed in 1981 and has a long-term lease to utilise the former Senior Citizens Centre on Tarcutta Street.
•
The ARCC Building comprises 1 main hall with kitchen, 2 smaller rooms, storage and toilets. There is separate external entry to all rooms which maximises the multi/shared-use of the building, and ensures all member groups have reasonable access to space for classes, meetings and exhibitions.
•
The majority of people who are members of the affiliate groups are older adults and their activity is recreational, although some members have a high level of proficiency and some work at a semiprofessional or professional level. Page 31
•
Some practitioners would like increased opportunities to showcase their work and gain some income from it.
•
Although the facilities for ARCC are adequate and deemed satisfactory for their use, a key issue is a lack of space, or the need for additional separate rooms in its building.
See Section 6.2 and Appendix 4 for more information on ARCC.
7.3.3. Riverina Theatre Company •
The Riverina Theatre Company (RTC) is the only professional arts organisation in Wagga Wagga and one of only four professional theatre companies located in regional Australia.
•
The RTC is based at the Riverina Playhouse, a joint undertaking between the Riverina Theatre Company and the Charles Sturt University (and the University Theatre Ensemble) on land made available by Wagga Wagga City Council.
•
The RTC has historically been supported by the Australia Council and Arts NSW, and a number of corporate sponsors. The Company’s application last year to renew triennial funding from the Australia Council and Arts NSW was not successful, and the Company is now set to establish a new management agreement for the Playhouse with the CSU.
•
The RTC primarily uses new work and scripts for its productions, and stages performances at other smaller venues in Wagga Wagga, e.g. Wollundry Amphitheatre and Romano Hotel.
•
The RTC works closely with schools and script writers, and is involved in some of the regional festivals and events, e.g. Re; generate Youth Arts Festival. It regularly receives funding from Council’s CROW Awards for performances and programs.
•
An issue raised by the RTC is that it is funded to develop new and innovative work, however, Wagga Wagga is a conservative community which sometimes appears to impact upon the success of some productions.
7.3.4. School of Arts Community Theatre •
The School of Arts Community Theatre (SOACT) is an amateur theatre company with a history in Wagga Wagga of over 60 years. Currently it has approximately 70 members.
•
SOACT primarily uses existing scripts and produces between 4 – 6 shows each year. It has restricted use of the Basement Theatre each year (up to two occasions), and also utilises other venues, e.g. Wollundry Amphitheatre.
•
It receives a grant each year from Wagga Wagga Council of approximately $2,000 to assist with productions.
•
SOACT has a partnership with the CSU for actors and production training.
•
Issues raised by SOACT include: −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Little coordination exists between production companies. Page 32
− − − −
Lack of security lighting around the Wollundry Lagoon. The need to sound-proof the floor between the Civic Theatre and the Basement and to create a separate public entry into the Basement to allow simultaneous use of both theatres. Lack of toilets and disabled access to adequate service patrons and actors in the Basement Theatre. Lack of a major billboard to promote shows at the Civic Theatre, the Playhouse and the Basement.
7.3.5. Wagga Art Society •
Wagga Art Society was formed approximately 65 years ago and currently has 80 members. Its membership comprises some professional artists but is predominantly made up of hobby artists.
•
The Group has a studio in Small Street on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, where most of the Groups activities are conducted: − − − −
Workshops for members, older adults and pre-school children. Art classes. Critique sessions. Visiting speakers.
•
The Group has an annual exhibition (in conjunction with the Quota Rotary) and also exhibits from time to time in the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. Members also display and sell work at the various farmers and craft markets in the region.
•
The Group ideally requires a permanent place to exhibit and sell their works.
7.3.6. Eastern Riverina Arts Program (ERAP) •
ERAP provides support for arts and cultural programs and projects throughout the region, predominantly using a community development approach.
•
It is funded through the NSW Ministry for the Arts, affiliate LGAs and other member organisations/individuals.
•
ERAP coordinates and implements some projects, however, recognises its main focus to be a guide/mentor for small local groups and individual artists, and a conduit for information sharing (network) and distribution.
•
ERAP has identified that there is a surge in the number of small festivals and events being staged across the region.
•
Issues raised by ERAP include: − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
The need to ensure artists and other cultural practitioners and groups continue to have access to publicly available places and spaces. The need to foster a sense of space and support for artists to gather together to create a “community of artists”.
Page 33
7.4.
Cultural Institutions Consultation was carried out with the following arts and cultural institutions: 1. Riverina Conservatorium for Music. 2. Charles Sturt University. The key outcome from these meetings/interviews is summarised below.
7.4.1. Riverina Conservatorium for Music •
The Conservatorium has established itself on the CSU South Campus. It utilises teaching rooms, the library and various storage areas.
•
The Conservatorium’s core business is “training people to play music and sing”. It has an extensive music program, which includes tuition, music camps, student performances and an annual concert series (local and overseas performers). There is a total of more than 50-60 performances each year.
•
Main performance space is the Bannister Room, with capacity to seat approximately 130 people.
•
Approximately 1,000 students are provided for annually.
•
Opportunities identified as to how Council could further assist the Conservatorium include: − −
Assist with promotion of available services and concert series (= “audience development” for music). Assist the Conservatorium to establish links with diverse communities (= diversity of music outcomes).
7.4.2. Charles Sturt University •
The CSU through the School of Visual and Performing Arts offers a range of courses in the arts, including: − − − − − − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Television production. Graphic design. Multi-media. Photography. Design for stage and screen. Acting. Fine art.
•
The CSU has a non-commercial exhibition venue on campus, the HR Gallop Gallery, which provides past and present students, staff and artists with an exhibition space.
•
The CSU has an art collection comprising over 2,000 works.
•
CSU and Council have entered into an agreement, the Cultural Services Cooperation Agreement, with the aim to collaboratively plan and deliver a range of cultural services for the benefit of both the community and the University.
Page 34
•
The Purpose and Terms of Reference of the Agreement are: − − − − − −
7.5.
to provide for consultation between the parties in planning with regard to the roles of each which bear on cultural activity in the Wagga Wagga regional community. to enhance collaboration between the parties in support of cultural activity in the Wagga Wagga regional community. to maintain and enhance links between … Wagga Wagga City Council and … the University for mutual benefit. to encourage joint projects and joint funding submissions to external bodies. to promote CSU student practicums within Council cultural facilities. to facilitate research into cultural activities.
Council Personnel Consultation with Council staff included input from both planning and management staff and Executive Directors of the various Council cultural venues.
7.5.1. General Information •
There is a high standard cultural facilities within the Civic Precinct.
•
There is a strong history and tradition of the arts in Wagga Wagga, and strong evidence of partnerships and collaborations between sector providers.
•
There has been an increased use of/visitations to the Wagga Wagga City Library, the Museum of the Riverina (both sites), the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and the Civic Theatre in recent years.
•
Issues identified included: − − − − − −
•
Opportunities identified included: − − − − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
There is a need to broaden the range of programs/special events available for target groups. More extensive public art policies are required. There is a lack of public art and community facilities in suburban areas. The need for continued commitment to maintain Council arts and cultural venues. Limited public transport and frequency of services are constraints for people to access cultural activity. Appropriately providing for and engaging with the transient population.
More cultural engagement with community. Increase performance spaces (street art, music, performances). Increased need for multicultural arts and cultural programming. Public art and heritage site interpretation. Improving/developing the facilities and spaces along the River.
Page 35
7.5.2. Wagga Wagga City Library Information received during interviews/meetings with Library staff included: •
Wagga Wagga City Library has approximately 18,000 members and has approximately 700 visitations per day. (This equates to approximately 3.8 visits per person annually for the LGA-wide population, or 4.2 visits for urban area population only. These figures compare with 5 visits per year per person nationally 8 ).
•
There are approximately 40 home-based library users who are serviced by volunteers from the Friends of the Library. The Friends Group also conducts fund-raising activities for the Library and provides general support to the overall service.
•
The operation of the Wagga Wagga City Library equates to approximately 55% of the total funding received for Riverina Regional Library.
•
The Mobile Library service operated by the Riverina Regional Library and services the Rural Villages.
•
WWCL has a static library and a mobile service that covers the outer suburbs of Wagga Wagga and surrounding villages within the LGA. This is complemented by an online service - catalogue, databases, Community Directory.
•
The Library supplies the following services : Readers Advisory, information services, circulation of the collection; Children’s and Youth Services; Adults and Seniors Services; Local History Service; Family History service; Indigenous and Multicultural Service; Inter Library Loans; internet access; Mobile Library; online services (public catalogue, online databases, and the Community Directory).
•
Client groups include Children and Youth, Adults, Seniors, and to specific groups like Indigenous and Multicultural
•
The Library is a keeper of community and cultural history and the Local Studies Collection includes the nationally significant Tichborne Collection
•
The Library is part of the Riverina Regional Library which is made up of 9 member councils with 12 static libraries and the mobile library. Membership of any branch entitles members to borrow from a collection of over 200,000 items. The Library is a portal that provides an Inter Library Loan Service to members through Libraries Australia to provide access to the vast collections of public libraries throughout Australia.
•
The Library has many networks and partnerships in the local community and on a state and national level.
•
The Library is supported by an Advisory Committee.
•
The Library has a comprehensive Strategic Plan that is focused on becoming a benchmark library service through Service Level Agreements for member councils, Marketing and Programming Activities to provide best value for library members, and Education
8
Source: Public Libraries: Australia (2003/04). Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Page 36
and Information based initiatives to provide virtual and in-house access to a range of resources for all age groups. •
The Library is a community space or ‘village square’ where community groups can have displays and events to celebrate and promote their activities. •
Issues identified: − − −
No library locally-based library service currently available to people residing in the urban area suburbs. Resourcing - restricted access to the Wagga Wagga City Library (not open on Sundays). Resourcing – Library is considered understaffed in relation to capacity to meet demand for services.
−
the growth in the aging population has implications for the volume of both housebound deliveries to individual members and who will deliver them, as well as the potential for a growing number of Nursing Homes that will also require servicing in addition to the current 6 institutions. This has implications for staffing levels and volunteer programmes.
−
technology access issues for housebound and time-poor clients
−
ost shifting as Local Government Library staff are spending high volumes of time training/helping clients to access State and Federal Government websites e.g. Road Traffic Authority, Australia Taxation Office etc… - these have an impact of staffing levels as the training is usually one-one-one and on demand
−
Education role: there needs to be a closer alliance with schools, to encourage every student in Wagga Wagga to have a library card and for students to access the virtual library which is available 24/7. This will boost memberships, complement the school library resources and encourage students to use the library as a portal for quality evaluated databases and search engines that have been critiqued by librarians.
−
a Mobile Library Service within the inner suburbs of Wagga Wagga would be a cost effective way of delivering a service to the clients who cannot come to the static library in the Civic Centre.
(Refer Section 6.1 and Appendix 2 for further inventory of services and programs available through the Wagga Wagga City Library).
7.5.3. Museum of the Riverina Information received during interviews/meetings with Museum staff included: •
The Museum of the Riverina was opened in 1999 and comprises two separate sites 2.5km apart: 1. Historic Council Chamber within the Civic Precinct. 2. Willans Hill site adjacent to the Botanic Gardens (previously operated by the Wagga Wagga & District Historic Society).
•
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Most of the current visitor programs did not exist prior to opening, such as exhibitions schools programs, public programs and professional and technical staff. Page 37
•
Annual visitations have increased significantly since the opening of the Museum in 1999, from a base of approximately 3,000 people to approximately 30,000 people.
•
Historic Council Chamber site has two primary functions, being a place for in-house and travelling exhibitions, and as a meeting venue.
•
The Willans Hill site has four primary functions, being a place for storage of the permanent collection, for cataloguing and curating the permanent collection, the Sporting Hall of Fame exhibition, and for being a place for travelling exhibitions.
•
The Museum also provides an outreach advisory and support role for 38 local museums located within the 20 shires from the Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (REROC) and the Riverina Regional Organisation of Councils (RIVROC).
•
As well as the above organisations, the Museum has other strategic alliances and partnerships with the National Museum (Canberra) and the CSU (through the Cultural Services Cooperation Agreement).
•
The Museum is supported by an Advisory Committee.
•
The Museum has a comprehensive Strategic Plan which focuses on improving operational areas, community awareness of the service, and future exhibition development.
•
Issues identified: − − −
− − −
To develop other revenue streams. Maintaining existing commitments from funding stakeholders. Resourcing - restricted access to the Museum (not open on Mondays, and after hours events are limited) and for ongoing maintenance and upgrade (including outdoor exhibits at Willans Hill site). The need to increase the Museum’s appeal to younger audiences. The need to express Indigenous heritage. The need to acknowledge and cater for diverse communities sand cultures (e.g. Africans) due to changing demographic of Wagga Wagga.
(Refer Section 6.1 and Appendix 2 for further inventory of services and programs available through the Museum of the Riverina).
7.5.4. Civic Theatre Information received during interviews/meetings with Civic Theatre staff included: •
•
The Civic theatre’s primary function is to provide a venue with high quality facilities to all of the Riverina Community to use as its theatre. The theatre offers a complete and attractive professionally staffed facility for hire to promoters and organisations in need of a venue for performances, conferences, lectures etc. The Civic Theatre is a focus point for most local performing arts groups and is a venue for hire at a subsidised rate for local community groups. The
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Page 38
• • • • • • •
staff of the Civic Theatre assist and mentor community groups and provide advice on promotion, presentation and production. The Civic Theatre supports the Riverina Young Peoples’ Theatre with representation on its committee. The Civic Theatre presents a broad range of popular and diverse productions of the highest standard to provide cutting edge and current performing arts experiences to the Riverina Community. The Civic Theatre operates an online booking office servicing for theatre performances as well as for a wide variety of local venues and events. The Civic Theatre houses the School of Arts Community Theatre. The Civic Theatre is supported by an Advisory Committee consisting of two Councillors, two Wagga School of Arts Community Theatre Members and seven Community Members. The Civic Theatre Foyers and auditorium underwent a mayor refurbishment in 1999. Issues identified: -
The need for continuing maintenance and upgrades in all areas.
-
The need to replace current lighting equipment
-
The need to refurbish the back of the stage to bring it in line with the rest of the building
-
The need for breakout rooms for conferences and conference equipment
-
The need for completely isolate the basement from the rest of the theatre to facilitate the use of both spaces simultaneously including the total sound-proofing of the stage
-
The need for the Civic Theatre to support and nourish the creation of innovative performing arts activities within the area.
(Refer Section 6.1 and Appendix 2 for further inventory of services and programs available through the Civic Theatre).
7.5.5. Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Information received during interviews/meetings with Gallery staff included: •
The Wagga Wagga Art Gallery comprises modern facilities and spaces at two sites within the Civic Precinct: − −
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Art Gallery. National Art Glass Gallery.
•
Key spaces within the Art Gallery include a large, flexible exhibition space (for exhibitions by local artists, periodic display of Council’s collection and travelling exhibitions), Margaret Carnegie Print Gallery, Art Education Room, an Artist in Residence studio, and shop (for sale of consignment products and artist equipment).
•
Annual visitations are 44,000 people (approx.), and continue to trend up.
•
Gallery hosts corporate and private functions in the gallery spaces and last year hosted the Public Gallery Summit (industry event).
•
Gallery staff manage the public art collection. Page 39
•
The Art Gallery is supported by an Advisory Committee, which conduct fund-raising activities for the Art Gallery and provide general support to the overall service.
•
Issues identified: − −
Capacity to meet ongoing exhibition requirements of Riverina Institute of TAFE and of School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSU). Effectiveness of the Agreement with the CSU (Cultural Services Cooperation Agreement).
(Refer Section 6.1 and Appendix 2 for further inventory of services and programs available through the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery).
7.6.
Other Information An interview was conducted with Parks staff from the Tumut office of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in relation to the cultural heritage value of Livingstone National Park 9 . It was confirmed that there are several sites of local and regional significance for the Wiradjuri people. NPWS have recently completed a draft Plan of Management for Livingstone National Park which outlines how the Park should be managed in the future, including the sites of cultural heritage significance. The draft Plan of Management is expected to be on public exhibition from August 2006. Council should actively participate in the submissions process and the finalisation of the Plan of Management to ensure the history and culture of the Wiradjuri people continues to be appropriately addressed in the region.
9
Livingstone National Park is located 30km south of Wagga Wagga township and comprises of just under 2,000 hectares of natural bushland. The area was declared a national park in 2001. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Page 40 Wagga Wagga City Council
8.
WAGGA WAGGA CULTURAL PLAN From issues raised through research and consultation, the Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) has been prepared utilising the following planning elements: 1. Policy Statement (or ‘Vision’). 2. Strategic Focus. 3. Principles and Values. 4. Council’s Role. 5. Key Strategic Objectives. 6. Implementation Plan. The details for each element follow.
8.1.
Vision for Culture The shared Vision of all stakeholders for the future provision of arts and culture in the City of Wagga Wagga is … To be a regional centre where culture and creativity shall enrich the lives of the whole community.
8.2.
Strategic Focus There will be two Key Focus Areas to achieve the Vision: 1. Council will have a leadership role to culturally enrich the community through increased advocacy and capacity building of community groups, and facilitating partnerships with and between people, community groups, practitioners and commercial providers. 2. Council will have a strategic approach to the use of cultural facilities for and by the community, which shall be driven by cultural activity needs.
8.3.
Principles and Values The Principles & Values which shall underpin the Cultural Plan are: 1. Council recognises that the culture of Wagga Wagga is expressed and reflected in many ways as part of the lifestyle of the people in the community. 2. The cultural values and practices of the Wagga Wagga community are diverse and Council seeks to embrace and celebrate this diversity. 3. All residents will have the opportunity to take an active role in the cultural life of their community, irrespective of location, social, language, economic, education, cultural or physical factors. 4. An integrated approach to planning is required to reflect the cultural values and priorities of the community across all areas of Council activity. 5. Council acknowledges the importance of working in partnership with the community and local business to achieve its cultural objectives. 6. Council recognises the important contribution of cultural opportunities and activities to the economic vitality of the City.
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Page 41
8.4.
Council’s Role Council’s Role in cultural development and planning include: 1. Undertaking planning and research in order to be able to respond to community needs and 'best practice' approaches to cultural development. 2. Facilitating and encouraging new initiatives and partnerships for the development of cultural opportunities. 3. Providing high quality and accessible information for the promotion of cultural activities to the community. 4. Supporting community education and the community cultural development processes. 5. Acting as a catalyst for cultural activity and inspiring creativity by example. 6. Building and maintaining the City’s cultural Collections, and facilitating community access to them. 7. Taking a custodial role in partnership with the community to enhance ownership and appreciation of the City's heritage assets. 8. Providing and managing cultural facilities to support community-based activity.
8.5.
Key Strategic Objectives The Key Strategic Objectives have been grouped into seven outcome categories. 1. Community 1.1 To ensure the availability of accessible information regarding the cultural opportunities in Wagga Wagga. 1.2 To promote the cultural achievements and assets of Wagga Wagga. 1.3 To facilitate equitable access to resources for local cultural activity. 1.4 To support community based networks. 1.5 To build the capacity of community groups and providers to provide opportunities at the local level. 2. Service Delivery 2.1 To plan and maintain high quality cultural infrastructure. 2.2 To enhance the role of community celebrations in Wagga Wagga. 2.3 To curate and manage the City's cultural heritage assets. 2.4 To build, maintain and provide access and support to cultural Collections. 2.5 To research and interpret the City's cultural heritage. 2.6 To facilitate the provision of cultural activities that is responsive to areas of community need. 3. Safety & Access 3.1 To plan for the equitable access for all residents to community cultural facilities and programs. 3.2 To research and respond to the cultural and social needs of New Arrivals for community participation and enhance access to cultural opportunities.
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4. Development & Urban Forum 4.1 To facilitate community education and debate regarding the impact of social and cultural change on the urban environment. 4.2 To enhance the sense of identity in local neighbourhoods and rural villages. 4.3 To optimise the social and cultural role of public spaces in Wagga Wagga. 4.4 To encourage high quality urban design in the built and natural environment. 5. Natural Areas 5.1 To facilitate utilisation of the natural environment (including the Murrumbidgee River environs) as a safe, accessible and user-friendly environment for cultural activities. 5.2 To acknowledge and interpret the environmental and heritage values of the natural areas. 6. Economic Development 6.1 To enhance the economic vitality of Wagga Wagga urban area and rural villages through cultural development initiatives. 6.2 To recognise and support the growth of local cultural industries. 7. Tourism 7.1 To take a proactive role in the development of cultural tourism opportunities. 7.2 To research and promote the City's cultural assets. 7.3 To continue partnerships with private sector organisations and other service providers.
8.6.
Cultural Plan Implementation Plan Each Key Strategic Objective comprises of a number of Actions for implementation during the life of the Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan (2006 - 2015). Each Action has been allocated the following characteristics to assist with implementation: •
A group(s) responsible for implementation.
•
A timeframe for implementation, where: − − −
High Priority = 1 – 3 years. Medium Priority = 4 - 7 years. Low Priority = 8 years +.
Legend: Council = Wagga Wagga City Council Tourism = Tourism Wagga Wagga RRL = Riverina Regional Library ERAP = Eastern Riverina Arts Program SOACT = School of Arts Community Theatre WWDHS = Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society
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Actions, Responsibilities and Budgets Implementation timeline key: High = 1-3 years, Medium = 4-7 years, Low = 8 years +
Community 1.1
To ensure the availability of accessible information regarding the cultural opportunities in Wagga Wagga.
Action
Responsibilit y
1. Undertake a comprehensive audit of all arts and cultural facilities, services and programs available within Wagga Wagga LGA. (possible project for a student placement)
Cultural Officer
High
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
2. Provide information at a local level to ensure communities in rural villages and suburbs are aware of locally based facilities, services and programs.
Cultural Officer
Medium
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
3. Continue implementation and enhancement of the Wagga Wagga Community Directory for community access.
Library
Ongoing
Within existing annual Library Budget
Medium
Within existing annual Div Community Services Budget
4. Investigate the expansion of the use of electronic media for the distribution of community and cultural information.
1.2
Community Services
Timeframe
Resources
To promote the cultural achievements and assets of Wagga Wagga.
Action
Responsibilit y
Timeframe
5. Establish awards and incentives to recognise the development of high quality public environments and urban design by external organisations and groups, such as best presented Rural Village, best domestic garden, cleanest street, etc.
Nat & Reg Services
Low
Within existing annual Tidy Towns Budget
6. Continue to recognise the contribution of those residents who have excelled in their field of endeavour and/or public life, through the Walk of Honour plaque project
Cultural Officer
Ongoing
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
7. Investigate options to establish a program similar to the Sporting Hall of Fame to recognise those residents who excel in their field of the arts.
Cultural Officer
Medium
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
1.3
Resources
To facilitate equitable access to resources for local cultural activity.
Action
Responsibilit y
Timeframe
8. Investigate options to increase the total available grant
Cultural Officer
Low
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Resources $20,000 (additional annual Page 44
Responsibilit y
Action
Timeframe
Resources commitment)
funding for the Crow Awards.
9. Target the needs of children and young people in the development of community-based organisations and arts activities.
Cultural facilities, Events, Tourism, Community Officer
Ongoing
Within Cultural facilities, Events, Tourism, Community Budgets
10. Investigate the provision of library services to suburban constituents through existing partnerships and/or existing Council partnerships.
Library
High
Within existing annual Library Budget
1.4
To support community-based networks.
Action
Responsibilit y
11. Facilitate the involvement of a wide range of community organisations in festivals and public events.
Cultural Officer, Community Officer, Museum, Art Gallery
12. Continue to provide opportunities for local community groups to participate in Council-managed community events (e.g. Summer in the Parks program).
Cultural Officer, Community Officer, Museum, Art Gallery
13. Evaluate the Twilight by the Lagoon and Summer in the Parks programs.
Timeframe
Resources
Ongoing
Within Cultural, Community, Museum, Art Gallery Budgets
Ongoing
Within Cultural, Community, Museum, Art Gallery Budgets
Cultural Officer, Tourism
High
Within Cultural, Tourism Budgets
14. Continue to provide annual arts and cultural grants through the Event Promotion Grants, Crow Awards, Rural Halls Infrastructure Grants and Cultural Facility Improvement Grants.
Community Services
Ongoing
Within existing Community Budget
15. The Cultural Officer to actively seek out existing arts, music and cultural networks to understand their role in the sector, and where appropriate, assess how they might expand their role, service and/or activity for broader community benefit.
Cultural Officer,
High
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
1.5
To build the capacity of community groups and providers to provide opportunities at the local level.
Action
Responsibilit y
16. Through partnerships with providers, continue to provide training and professional development to community organisations and individual practitioners (e.g. marketing, project management, submission
Cultural Officer, Tourism, Cultural facilities,
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Timeframe
Ongoing
Resources
$10,000 (source grant funding)
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Responsibilit y
Action writing). 17. Through Council’s Events Coordinator and Cultural Officer, provide advice to community groups, progress associations and trader groups regarding public activities, performances and events.
Timeframe
Resources
ERAP
Cultural Officer, Events Officer
Ongoing
5,000 (source grant funding)
8.6.1. Service Delivery 2.1
To plan and maintain high quality cultural infrastructure.
Action
Responsibilit y
18. Ensure asset condition audits for cultural venues are reviewed and actions implemented as required.
Asset Management
High
Within existing annual Asset Management Budget
19. Investigate the feasibility and practicality of co-location of the Museum of the Riverina and the Visitor Information Centre. (in accordance with the Museum of Riverina Strategic Plan).
Museum, Tourism
Medium
Identified in Long Term Financial Plan
Timeframe
Resources
20. Enhance and maintain the infrastructure of Council’s community cultural facilities to improve efficiencies, capacity, services and collaborations. (in accordance with the Museum of Riverina Strategic Plan).
Museum
Ongoing
Long Term Financial Plan or source grant funding
21. Undertake a cost benefit / community benefit assessment of the upgrade of the Basement Theatre (i.e. installation of sound-proofing and upgrade of public access and amenities).
Cultural Officer, SOACT
Medium
$15,000 (source grant funding)
22. Investigate the feasibility of establishing a cultural heritage “Keeping Place” in Wagga Wagga for the Wiradjuri. (in accordance with the key directions and recommendations of the Wiradjuri Heritage Study)
Cultural Officer, Museum, Aboriginal Elders Group
Medium
$20,000 (source grant funding)
23. Undertake a review of outdoor spaces that are programmed for festivals and events to ensure that existing spaces, facilities and services are adequate.
Cultural Officer
High
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
24. Prepare management plans for all Community Halls which assess physical issues and which provide direction for increased utilisation for locally-based activities and events. (suggested that the planning process be undertaken by respective Hall Committees with Council performing a mentoring and support role for Committees).
Asset Management
High
Asset Management Budget $15,000
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2.2
To enhance the role of community celebrations in Wagga Wagga.
Action
Responsibilit y
25. Review key Council cultural events to ensure they are congruent with the Cultural Plan and that they maximise operational efficiencies.
Marketing and Tourism
2.3
Timeframe
Resources Within Marketing and Tourism Budget
Medium
To curate and manage the City's cultural heritage assets. Responsibilit y
Action
Timeframe
Resources
26. Review Council’s Public Arts Policy – No. 7.29 to address the following areas: − − − − − − −
A vision for public art. Commissioning models. Breadth of contemporary public art practice. Ongoing funding mechanisms. Establishes internal procedures and processes for dealing with public art. Maintenance and deaccessioning. Developer Contribution Policy (Section 94).
27. Complete the audit of outdoor public art works and establish a plan for the maintenance of works and/or deaccessioning items deemed unsuitable or surplus.
2.4
Cultural Officer, Gallery
Cultural Officer, Gallery
Art
Art
High
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
High
Within existing annual Cultural Budget
To build, maintain and provide access and support to cultural Collections.
Action
Responsibilit y
Timeframe
Resources
28. Develop a significant, sustainable and accessible collection of significant historical objects and items. (in accordance with the directions of Goal 2 of the Museum of the Riverina Strategic Plan).
Museum
Ongoing
Within existing Museum Budget and source grant funding
29. Continue to assess, catalogue and appropriately store publicly held Wiradjuri artefact collections within the Local Government Area.
Museum
Ongoing
Within existing annual Museum Budget
Ongoing
Within existing annual Museum Budget
Medium
Within existing Museum Budget $20,000
Ongoing
Within existing annual Cultural Facility Budgets
30. Continue to facilitate Wiradjuri / Indigenous heritage displays and art exhibitions through the Museum of the Riverina and the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. 31. Investigate options for the future management of the Sporting Hall of Fame, including its location, interpretation, promotion and expansion.
32. To develop and maintain all cultural Collections.
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Museum
Museum
Cultural Facilities
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2.5
To research and interpret the City's cultural heritage.
Action
Responsibilit y
33. Support the sensitive and relevant development of Indigenous cultural icons. (in accordance with the directions of the Wiradjuri Heritage Study).
Indigenous Officer
Sourced
Within existing Indigenous Budget and source grant funding
34. Explore options for producing historic interpretive material, including signage, printed material and multimedia/audio material.
Museum
Low
Within existing Museum Budget
35. Continue to undertake oral history projects in conjunction with the Historic Society and/or appropriate other partners relating to both urban and oral history. (in accordance with recommendations of the Rural History Study).
Museum, Library
Ongoing
Within Museum, Library Budgets
2.6
Timeframe
Resources
To facilitate the provision of cultural activities that is responsive to areas of community need.
Action
Responsibilit y
36. Investigate the feasibility of establishing a program to train Indigenous guides to conduct tours and education programs in cultural heritage.
Indigenous Officer
Low
Within Indigenous Budget
Cultural Officer
High
Within Cultural Budget
37. That the Cultural Officer facilitate networking, identify opportunities for community arts projects, and link individuals and groups to existing cultural facilities and programs (particularly in the suburbs and rural villages, and
Timeframe
Resources
with New Arrivals).
38. Confirm the key areas of interest and need in relation to arts and culture provision for young people (such as internet café/or other “hang-out” venue, band rehearsal and performance spaces, evening functions and events).
Cultural Officer, Community Officer
High
Within Cultural, Community Budgets
39. Actively seek new uses of the Music Bowl in the Botanic Gardens which are appropriate and will ensure ongoing utilisation of this asset, such as children’s events and performances, and cultural displays and exhibitions.
Cultural Officer
Medium
Within Cultural Budget
40. Implement the recommendations from the Events Review to ensure there is clear focus and delineation of roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders in event planning, delivery and funding.
Tourism and Marketing
High
Within Tourism and Marketing Budget
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8.6.2. Safety and Access 3.1
To plan for the equitable access for all residents to community cultural facilities and programs.
Action
Responsibilit y
41. Work towards ensuring disability access to existing and new arts and cultural facilities and spaces.
Council
42. Include transport access as a key criterion when evaluating possible sites/venues for arts and cultural programming / events.
Community Services, Tourism & Marketing
43. Ensure on-going support for free arts and cultural activities in community festivals and events.
Community Services, Tourism & Marketing
44. Ensure adequate provision is made in new/upgraded community facilities for spaces that are suitable for a range of community arts and cultural uses, including art & craft, performances and social interaction.
Timeframe
Resources
Ongoing
Within existing annual Council Area Budgets
Ongoing
Within Community Services, Tourism & Marketing Budgets
Ongoing
Within Community Services, Tourism & Marketing Budgets
Community Services, City Planning
Ongoing
Within Community Services, City Planning Budgets
45. Liaise with schools and tertiary institutions to ensure their arts and cultural facilities are available for community use out-of-school hours (where demand exists and where practical for all parties).
Cultural Officer
Medium
Within Cultural Budget
46. Ensure Community Halls are readily available and accessible by local groups and organisations.
Council, Hall Committees, Bookings Officer
Ongoing
Within Council area Budgets
47. Continue to support and fund the Riverina Regional Library as a demonstrated best-practice library service mechanism.
Council
Ongoing
Within Budget
48. Continue to fund the Eastern Riverina Arts Program to provide support for arts and cultural groups, programs and projects in a regional context in line with meeting the strategic objectives of the Cultural Plan.
Cultural Officer
Ongoing
Within Cultural Budget
3.2
To research and respond to the cultural and social needs of New Arrivals for community participation and enhance access to cultural opportunities.
Action
Responsibilit y
Timeframe
Resources
49. Liaise with people from diverse communities and New Arrivals to develop appropriate community cultural development projects to engage them.
Cultural Officer
High
Source grant funds, Community Services Budget
50. Plan for the inclusion of diverse communities in local
Cultural Officer,
High
Within Cultural,
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Page 49
Responsibilit y
Action community events and festivals. 51. Continue to support the role of the Multicultural Council in assisting and integrating New Arrivals into the community.
Timeframe
Events Officer
Community Services
Resources Events Budgets
Ongoing
Within Community Services Budget
8.6.3. Development & Urban Forum 4.1
To facilitate community education and debate regarding the impact of social and cultural change on the urban environment.
Action
Responsibilit y
52. Actively seek the involvement of new communities in local event planning and staging to facilitate integration between New Arrivals and established communities.
Cultural Officer, Events Officer
53. Celebrate the increasing diversity of Wagga Wagga at local and regional events.
Cultural Officer, Events Officer
54. Encourage schools and other education institutions to embrace multiculturalism in their planning and delivery of events and services.
Community Services
4.2
Timeframe
Resources
Ongoing
Within Cultural, Events Budgets
Ongoing
Within Cultural, Events Budgets
Low
Within Community Services Budget
To enhance the sense of identity in local neighbourhoods and rural villages.
Action
Responsibilit y
55. Create opportunities for people from diverse cultures to have input into the development of local areas.
Social Planner
Ongoing
Within Social Planning Budget
56. Ensure there are locally accessible venues and spaces for culturally diverse communities to meet, socialise and recreate.
Cultural Officer
Ongoing
Within Cultural Budget
4.3
Resources
To optimise the social and cultural role of public spaces in Wagga Wagga.
Action
Responsibilit y
57. Promote opportunities for theming the design and development of park furniture as a strategy to encourage increased use of parks and open space.
Cultural Officer, Asset Management
4.4
Timeframe
Timeframe
Ongoing
Resources Within Cultural, Asset Management Budgets
To encourage high quality urban design in the built and natural environment.
Action Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Responsibilit y
Timeframe
Resources Page 50
Action
Responsibilit y
58. Incorporate cultural planning expertise in facility, urban and open space planning.
Cultural Officer, Asset Management
Ongoing
Within Cultural, Asset Management Budgets
59. Investigate local artist involvement in street furniture design, particularly in rural villages where specific historical characteristics of townships can be manifested.
Cultural Officer, Asset Management
Medium
Source Grant Funding
Timeframe
Resources
8.6.4. Natural Areas 5.1
To facilitate utilisation of the natural environment (including the Murrumbidgee River environs) as a safe, accessible and user-friendly environment for cultural activities. Responsibilit y
Action
60. Continue to improve the public’s access to and along the Murrumbidgee River.
Asset Management , Tourism & Martketing
61. Actively participate in the process to establish a Plan of Management for Livingstone National Park currently being coordinated by NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, particularly where directions are recommended for the management of sites of significance for Indigenous people.
Indigenous Officer, Asset Management
5.2
Timeframe
Resources
Ongoing
Asset Management, Tourism & Martketing Budgets, source grant funding
High
Within Indigenous, Asset Management Budgets
To acknowledge and interpret the environmental and heritage values of the natural areas.
Action
Responsibilit y
62. Continue implementation of the key directions and recommendations of the Wiradjuri Heritage Study.
Indigenous Officer
63. Continue implementation of the key directions and recommendations of the Wiradjuri Reserve Plan of Management and Master Plan.
Asset Management
Timeframe
Resources
Ongoing
Within Indigenous Budget
Ongoing
River Reserves Budget, New Section 94 Plan
64. Continue implementation of the key directions and recommendations of the Murrumbidgee River Urban Interface - Plan of Management.
Asset Management
Ongoing
River Reserves Budget, New Section 94 Plan
65. Develop new guidelines for the installation of interpretative signage in public spaces (which informs
Cultural Officer, Tourism
High
Within Cultural, Tourism
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
&
Page 51
&
Responsibilit y
Action the selection of sites and the fabrication of signage). (Guidelines to be developed as part of the review of the Public Arts Policy – No. 7.29).
Timeframe
Marketing
Resources Marketing Budgets
66. Review the current suite of interpretative signage in public spaces, and upgrade where necessary.
Tourism & Marketing
Medium
Within Tourism Marketing Budget
67. As part of the review of the Wagga Wagga Bikeways Plan, maximise opportunities to develop cultural trails throughout the LGA to celebrate Wiradjuri heritage and the City’s contemporary history and heritage.
Indigenous Officer, Cultural Officer, Transport
Medium
Source funding
&
grant
8.6.5. Economic Development 6.1
To enhance the economic vitality of Wagga Wagga urban area and rural villages through cultural development initiatives.
Action
Responsibilit y
68. Investigate the potential to develop a “creative skills” register as a resource for local business and industry.
Cultural Officer, CRU
Low
Within Cultural, CRU Budgets
69. Investigate the availability of disused or under-utilised commercial buildings for use as workshops and exhibition spaces.
Cultural Officer
Medium
Within Cultural Budget
70. Install public information boards in urban and Rural Village retail and commercial areas.
Council
High
Budget to be Sourced
6.2
Timeframe
Resources
To recognise and support the growth of local cultural industries.
Action
Responsibilit y
71. Continue to profile the benefits and attraction of the City’s arts and cultural venues and spaces in economic development strategies, such as tourism and housing strategies.
CRU, Tourism & Marketing
72. Profile through various information sources, private studios, galleries, workshops and tutor rooms of visual and performing artists that highlight the cultural endeavours in Wagga Wagga.
Community Services, Tourism & Marketing
Timeframe
Resources
Ongoing
Within CRU, Tourism & Marketing Budgets
Medium
Within Community Services, Tourism & Marketing Budgets
8.6.6. Tourism 7.1
To take a proactive role in the development of cultural tourism opportunities.
Action Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Responsibilit y
Timeframe
Resources
Page 52
Action
Responsibilit y
73. Facilitate the establishment of an efficient and effective calendar of events for Wagga Wagga.
Tourism & Marketing
74. Continue to support and promote heritage trails, such as the Guide to Wiradjuri Places of Wagga Wagga.
Tourism & Marketing, Indigenous Officer
75. Continue to promote Wagga Wagga’s major festivals and events throughout the State (and interstate for selected events), via tourism networks and events packaging to attract visitors to travel to Wagga Wagga.
Tourism & Marketing
7.2
Timeframe
High
Within Tourism Marketing Budget
Ongoing
Within Tourism Marketing, Indigenous Budgets
Ongoing
Within Tourism Marketing Budget
&
&
&
To research and promote the City's cultural assets. Responsibilit y
Action
Timeframe
76. Install banner poles at key locations in the LGA (particularly in the Wagga Wagga urban area) and use to promote cultural activities and events.
Tourism & Marketing
Medium
77. Consolidate information relating to all major cultural facilities, their programming and what’s on (for festivals and events) onto Council’s website.
Tourism & Marketing
High
7.3
Resources
Resources $75,000 (capital) $5,000 (recurrent) Tourism Marketing Budget Within Tourism Marketing Budget
&
&
To continue partnerships with private sector organisations and other service providers.
Action
Responsibilit y
78. Review the strategic partnership with the Charles Sturt University (CSU), in accordance with the conditions of the Cultural Services Cooperation Agreement.
Cultural Officer
79. Continue to support major events and activities coordinated by external organisations and committees, where outcomes are consistent with Council’s economic and tourism objectives, such as the Wagga Gold Cup and the Wagga Jazz Festival.
Tourism & Marketing
80. Prepare a Sponsorship Policy to formalise guidelines for the Council’s support, involvement and promotion with events activities organised by external groups (either commercial or not-for-profit). 81. Consider establishing a strategic partnership with the Riverina Conservatorium of Music (RCM) as the key provider of music tuition and performance opportunities. Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Timeframe
Resources
High
Within Cultural Budget
Ongoing
Within Tourism Marketing Budget
Tourism & Marketing
High
Within Tourism Marketing Budget
Cultural Officer, RCM
High
Within Cultural Budget
Page 53
&
&
Action
Responsibilit y
82. Consider formalising existing partnerships between Council and schools to ensure the collaborative development of appropriate programs for children and young people.
Community Services
Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) Wagga Wagga City Council
Timeframe
High
Resources
Within Community Services Budget
Page 54
9.
CONCLUSION This cultural planning study commenced in 2004 and has built on the progress and achievements in arts and cultural provision advocated for in Wagga Wagga Council’s two previous cultural strategy plans. The Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan (2006 – 2015) has identified a range of issues and opportunities, and over 80 Strategies and Actions for the future development of arts and cultural facilities, programs and services throughout the Wagga Wagga LGA for the next 10 years. Importantly, many of the directions recognise Wagga Wagga’s current and future position within the Riverina as the region’s major hub and service centre, and subsequently confirm its leadership role in cultural development. The Cultural Plan provides Council and stakeholders (both public and private) with the necessary focus and direction to further expand the arts and cultural sector, and to ensure a collaborative approach is undertaken to achieving progress and enhancement.
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APPENDIX 1 Definition of Terms
Appendices
Definitions of Terms 1. Art The word art is widely used to define the product of or creative expression by individuals and groups. Art is therefore an expression of a culture, reflecting or challenging the value’s contained within the community’s culture. In our contemporary and diverse communities artwork is likely to be the expression of one’s personal cultural background within a rich diversity of cultures. The practice of art traditionally was rather limited in its areas of practice to the fine arts of painting, sculpture, music, ballet and opera. Today the areas of practice have expanded to take in an ever widening range of possibilities across the arts, crafts, popular culture and new technologies. “Art could be defined as a cultural practice that involves the creation of a specific and definable object – a play, video, or piece of music for example. The function of the object is a self-conscious, personal or collective expression of something”. Justin Lewis – Art, Culture and Enterprise (London 1990)
2. Artist An artist is someone who has specialist training in his or her field (not necessarily in academic institutions), is recognised by their peers (professional practitioners working in the artform), is committed to devoting time to their artistic activity and has a history of public presentation. Brecknock Consulting (2003)
3. Community Art An important subset of the arts is the area known as community art. The practice of community art grew from grassroots activity during the 1980s to become a significant activity for Councils and communities around Australia. During the early 1990s there were a large number of Community Arts Officers appointed to councils with significant support from the Federal Government through the Community Cultural Development Board of the Australia Council. The significant factor in the practice of community art is the involvement of the artist. Community art arises from the involvement of skilled artists working with members of the community to empower them to fulfil cultural expression through an artform. The process of understanding the art making process and community building that goes hand in glove with community arts projects is as valuable as the finished product. “Community Art is a process through which artists and communities work together to express and/or articulate a collective vision in a creative and imaginative way. Community development is the primary aim of a Community Art process.” Australia Council for the Arts
Appendices
4. Public Art Public art refers to all types of artwork located in public spaces and buildings other than galleries and museums. It may be free standing or integrated into the fabric of buildings or outdoor spaces, and can take on many forms in many different materials. Often integrated with architectural, urban and landscape design, and undertaken as joint creative projects with architects, landscape designers and urban planners as multi-disciplinary works, public art can respond to, or be integrated within the public environment to create mosaic floor insets, stained glass windows, ornamental metal gates, water fountains, constructed landscaping, and street furniture, etc. It can be constructed to last indefinitely or be temporary/ephemeral. For example it could be a performance or an installation designed for a festival or event. Some public artworks exist fleetingly as computer generated images or as a laser/light projection show, digital works, or sound works. Public art may be functional or non-functional. Over and above its possible function, its pure form invokes a response from the participant or viewer. It may however, have a less literal meaning and require a more subtle response to its texture, form, how it occupies space, how it intervenes, what it frames, its response to site, use of materials, light and colour. Progressive and contemporary, public art uses public space to conceptually engage in the progression of ideas. The progression of ideas may be about the future or involve reflection and contemplation. It is open to different possibilities and a diversity of approaches. It may be simple or it may be complex, but at its core it is creative and innovative. Brecknock Consulting (2005)
5. Culture The concept of culture is a widely discussed notion that has a range of interpretations and meanings ranging across Culture as high art to types of civilisations and the customs of a people. The word is most widely used by local government in terms of cultural development with its broad interpretation embracing all the activities that shape a community and make it unique. “Culture consists of all distinctive spiritual, intellectual and emotional features which characterize a society or social group�. UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policies (Mexico 1982)
6. Cultural Heritage A society’s culture, traditions and physical assets preserved, celebrated and/or reinterpreted from one generation to another, incorporating events and individual histories. In our increasingly multicultural society, multiple histories and cultural values are brought to contemporary life from a diversity of cultural backgrounds. Cultural heritage includes, but is not limited to, Aboriginal heritage and colonial and post-colonial heritage. Blacktown Council and Brecknock Consulting (2003)
Appendices
7. Cultural Infrastructure Cultural infrastructure includes cultural facilities and cultural environments. Governments have continually funded cultural infrastructure for the public good. It has been seen as important social capital and a fundamental right of a civilised society. The most universally supported area of expenditure is for libraries. A high proportion of the population rate support to libraries as very important regardless of personal library usage. Cultural facilities are important in providing venues in which cultural activity can occur and they also provide an important focus for the arts within a community. Cultural facilities include community art theatres/concert halls, libraries and cinemas.
centres,
art
galleries,
museums,
Cultural environments include urban spaces/malls, educational centres, shopping centres, parks, bushlands and playgrounds. 8. Cultural Tourism Cultural tourism is travel for essentially cultural motivations including educational tours, performing arts events, festivals, pilgrimages, visits to sites and monuments and the study of folklore, nature and art. The Cultural tourist is someone who: •
Likes mixing and meeting with local people and learning about their lifestyle: seeks educational experiences and uses travel for personal growth.
•
Attends cultural events and venues.
•
Travels widely to experience and appreciate the diversity of built heritage and the natural environment.
•
Seeks individual involvement in authentic, informed, quality experiences, rather than group involvement in organized tourism. World Tourism Authority
Appendices
APPENDIX 2 Audit of Cultural Venues Audit of Community Halls
Appendices
Audit of Cultural Venues
Wagga Wagga City Library
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery
Ground Level: Youth Area, Children's Area, Adult Fiction Level One: Information, Reference Collection, Non-Fictio, ,Magazines, CDs, DVDs, Books on CD, MP3, Cassette, large print
Large flexible gallery space (with moveable walls) Margaret Carnegie Print Gallery Art Education Room Artist in Residence studio National Art Glass Gallery (separate building)
approximately 700 visitors daily
Book loans Reference collections Mags, CDs, DVDs Story time sessions - daily Youth Music nights School Holiday activities Book launches Seminars Author talks Poetry readings Internet lessons Exhibitions/school displays Special focus weeks (law, science, youth, etc)
The Library is part of the Riverina Regional Library service. It is regarded as a "village square" for local people, or a community space that is accessible to everyone. The Library is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Riverina Institute of TAFE students CSU students Local Artists
Exhibitions Artist/Curator floor talks Guided tours Exhibition openings Civic receptions Corporate/private functions Performances/productions Artist forums Children's workshops Educational programs for schools 1-2 day workshops Mural program Activart programs for young people
The National Art Glass Collection is the largest national public collection of Australian 'studio' glass and has currently approximately 400 works. The staff also manage the Public Artworks. The Gallery is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Appendices
Museum of the Riverina Site 1: Historic Council Chambers
Museum of the Riverina Site 2: Willans Hill
Civic Theatre
Wollundry Amphitheatre
Music Bowl (Botanic Gardens)
Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society Bikeways Steering Committee Public Utilities Group Traffic Committee
Travelling exhibitions Meetings Public events Awards Special focus weeks (Seniors, Law) Launches (books, etc)
Building is the former Council Chamber. The Museum is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Indoor exhibition space Outdoor historic museum Sporting Hall of Fame Workshop
Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society
Internal exhibitions Travelling exhibitions Regional outreach program Collection management Workshops Public programs / events
The Museum is adjacent to the Botanic Gardens Willans Hill.
Main 488 seat auditorium Upper foyer Lower foyer Booking Office Basement Theatre (70 seat)
National promoters National touring companies School of Arts Community Theatre Australian Army Band Other community groups / schools Corporates
Dance Music Drama Amateur theatre Conferences Private functions Centralised booking service
The centralised booking service caters for events both within and outside of the Civic Theatre. The lower foyer has a direct outlook and connection with the Wollundry Lagoon. The Civic Theatre is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Outdoor stage and seating Grass surrounds
Riverina Theatre Company School of Arts Community Theatre Wagga Chamber of Commerce Community groups and schools Wagga Wagga Council Staff
Concerts Plays Performances Markets Weddings Other ceremonies / events
There has been a concerted drive to use this facility. It has a convenient, central location in attractive surrounds. Adequate toilet facilities nearby. The Amphitheatre is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Concerts Weddings
The Music Bowl is used very little since the Amphitheatre was built. A constraint for increased use of the Music Bowl has been conflict with local residential (noise issues and limited parking).
Former Council Chamber (meeting area) Main exhibition area Balcony Function area Storage area Chapel
Stage
Carols by Candlelight Committee
Appendices
Flat, paved, outdoor stage Grassed open space area Cenotaph Scented garden
Wagga Wagga Council Staff RSL Cancer Council
Council festivals and events Weddings Ceremonies (eg ANZAC day)
Some restrictions on use (RSL involvement).
Riverina Playhouse
249 seat auditorium Thrust stage
Riverina Theatre Company University Theatre Ensemble Riverina Young People's Theatre Other community groups / schools
Music Drama
Site has a 30 year lease to CSU (commenced 1986)
Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs' (ARCC) Building
Main Hall 2 smaller rooms
Over 15 communitybased arts, cultural and hobby clubs
Various art & craft and hobby activities
Site has been occupied by the ARCC since 1981 on a long-term lease.
Teaching rooms Bannister Room (130 seat capacity) Library Administration areas
Conservatorium
Musical tuition Instrumental recitals Music performances Conferences Workshops
Site has a 30 year lease to CSU (commenced 1986)
Single level gallery space
CSU students CSU past students CSU staff External artists
Exhibitions
Gallery is managed by the School of Visual and Performing Arts
Performance Space Victory Memorial Gardens
Riverina Conservatorium of Music CSU South Campus
HR Gallop Gallery CSU North Campus
Appendices
Audit of Community Halls
Hall / CoM Address
Contact
Phone
COLLINGULLIE HALL 2 MacDonald St Collingullie 2652
Margaret Cox
(02) 6920 0163
CURRAWARNA HALL Lauderdale Farm RMB Old Narrandera Rd via Wagga Wagga 2650
Barbara Johnston Currawarna Progress Ass'n
(02) 6929 1066
DOWNSIDE HALL Talavera, Downside via Wagga Wagga 2650
David Meiklejohn
0418 243 476
EUBERTA PUBLIC HALL RMB 130, Old Narrandera Rd via Wagga Wagga 2650
Mr Chris Galloway
(02) 6922 9469
FOREST HILL HALL PO Box 92 Forest Hill 2652
Kevin Kerr Forest Hill Progress Ass'n
(02) 6922 7296
GALORE HALL Kalimna Park RMB 1055 Galore 2652
Chris McLure
(02) 6928 2257
HUMULA HALL The Oaks Turnbarumba Rd Humula 2652
Jean Prowse
LADYSMITH MEMORIAL HALL Glencoe Ladysmith 2652
Stanley Wilson
MANGOPLAH HALL
Barbara
(02) 6928 9224
(02) 6922 1542
(02) 6928
No. on CoM
Utilisation
Midweek day
Midweek evening
Functions Fundraisers
12
Low
X
CWA
Hall occasionally used on weekends
Church - once per mth Fire Brigade - once per mth
TAFE courses Market days Meetings
12
High
TAFE
TAFE
Hall occasionally used on weekends
Main Hall, supper room
Tin Shed Rattlers (Band) Dog Club, Car Club Fire Brigade
Meetings
7
Med-High
X
Main Hall split into 2 areas
CWA Farmers' Groups
Meetings Parties/functions
6
Med
X
1 room
Playgroup
Main Hall split into 2 areas
Tennis Club - summer CWA - once per mth Fire Dept - once per mth
Meetings, Fun days, Family nights, Annual Ball, Xmas tree function
10
Low
X
Tennis Club utilises Hall during summer tennis season
Main Hall, stage, meeting rooms, billiards room
CWA - once per mth TAFE courses
Meetings Community functions Member of Clubs NSW
8
High
X
Hall mostly used on weekends
Main Hall, stage, supper room, storeroom, committee room
Preschool - once per wk Red Cross - once per mth Landcare - once per mth
Meetings Flower Show Antique Sales (2 pa)
7
Low - Med
Every Thurs
On occasion
Hall occasionally used on weekends
Main Hall split
Yoga group - once per
Family days
12
High
Every 2nd
Tuesday
Hall occasionally
Usable spaces
Current regular users
Activities
Main Hall, supper room, kitchen
CWA - once per mth School - on occasion
Main Hall, storeroom, kitchenette
CoM
Saturday
Sunday
Hall mostly used on weekends
X
Hall occasionally used on weekends
The key is missing to this Hall and Kevin has no idea who is actually responsible for the Hall
Appendices
Lot 9 Baylis St Mangoplah 2652
Heffernan
5776
OBERNE COMMUNITY CENTRE PO Box 3 Tarcutta 2652
Annette Burbidge
OURA HALL Wagga Wagga Rd Oura 2652
Jen Thompson Oura Progress Ass'n
(02) 6922 1106
TARCUTTA HALL 51 Sydney Rd Tarcutta 2652
Brian Bates Tarcutta Progress Ass'n
(02) 6928 7066
URANQUINTY HALL PO Box 180 Uranquinty 2652
Andrew Lang Uranquinty Progress Ass'n
(02) 6922 9754
(02) 6928 9523
into 2 areas, storerooms
wk Playgroup - every 2nd wk
Farmers seminars School concerts
Main Hall, kitchen
Tennis club - once per wk Card night - once per mth
Meetings Car Club functions Training
8
High
Main room, kitchenette
CWA - once per week Mothers Group - once per week Fire Brigade
Meetings, trivia nights, poetry nights, fundraisers etc
10
Very high
Main room, kitchen, storeroom + 3 smaller rooms
Permanently used as Opp Shop 3 days per week Elections held there
Meetings Markets Debutant Balls
7
Med
2 rooms, stage, kitchen
Progress Assoc monthly School activities
Meetings
3
Low-Med
Appendices
Wednesda y
nights
used on weekends
On occasion
Often used
All social events are held on the weekends Many community functions held on weekends
X
X
Varies from year to year
As required
APPENDIX 3 Audit of Cultural Facilities at Education Sites
Appendices
Audit of Cultural Facilities at Education Sites
School / Tertiary
Arts/Cultural/ Music Facilities
Available for Community Use
External User Groups
Proposed New / Improved Facilities
Comments (If "No", to available for community use - why?)
School Hall
Y
Dance Group
NIL
No requests to use facilities
NONE
N/A
N/A
Nil
Use Collingullie Hall
Community Hall
Y
Church Services Polling Bushfire Meetings
NIL
School Hall
Y
NIL
NIL
Gumly Gumly Hall
Y
Local Community
NIL
Parish Hall
Y
Craft Group
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
School Hall
Y
Karate Group
NIL
Primary Schools Ashmont Public Ph: 02 6931 4944
Collingullie Public Ph: 02 6920 0165
Currawarna Public Ph: 02 6929 1039
Forest Hill Public Ph: 02 6922 7251
Gumly Gumly Public Ph: 02 6922 7285
Holy Trinity Ph: 02 6931 3704
Kapooka Public Ph: 02 6931 2703
Kooringal Primary Ph: 02 6922 6443
Appendices
No one hires facilities on a regular basis
No additional requests to use facilities
Facilities are available for hire subject to
Dance Group Ladysmith Public Ph: 02 6922 1524
Lake Albert Public Ph: 02 6922 6400
Lutheran Primary Ph: 02 6926 1414
Mt Austin Public Ph: 02 6925 2481
North Wagga Public Ph: 02 6921 3533
Sacred Heart Catholic Ph: 02 6922 6900
South Wagga Public Ph: 02 6921 2947
St Josephs Primary Ph: 02 6921 5733
Sturt Public Ph: 02 6922 5087
Tolland Public Ph: 02 6931 1263
Principal approval
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
School Hall
Y
Church Group Before/After School Care
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
Chapel
Y
Church Services Music/Drama Area
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
Multipurpose Room
Y
Church Group
NONE
NONE
NONE
Hall
School is in desperate need of a hall
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
Facilities are not suitable for external hire
NONE
N/A
NIL
NIL
School uses Parish Centre for all activities
Gym/Hall
Y
Old Time Dance Group Karate Group
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
School Hall
Y
Parish
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
School Hall
Y
Karate Group
NIL
Large Hall with stage
Y
Church Group
Library
Y
NIL
NIL
Appendices
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval Principal happy to encourage community use of facilities
Turvey Park Public Ph: 02 6925 2589
Uranquinty Public Ph: 02 6922 9619
Wagga Wagga Public Ph: 02 6921 3398
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
School Hall
Y
Karate Group Line Dancing Group Rock 'n Roll Group Vacation Care
NIL
School Hall
Y
NIL
Renovations
Performing Arts Centre
Y
NIL
NIL
Multipurpose Hall
Y
Local Arts/Cultural Group
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
Secondary Schools Kildare Catholic College Ph: 02 6925 3388
Mater Dei Catholic Ph: 02 6922 5069
Mt Austin High Ph: 02 6925 2801
Riverina Anglican College HS
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval Brand new school that would be happy to hire to external user groups
Ph: 02 6933 1811
Wagga Christian College Ph: 02 6926 2622
Church Group Wagga Wagga HS
School Hall
Y
Ph: 02 6925 3611
Local Exhibitions NIL
Other schools Amphitheatre
Y
NIL
Tertiary
Appendices
School is improving the majority of existing facilities
Charles Sturt University Ph: 02 6933 2000
Riverina Institute of TAFE
Drama room within Rec Centre
Y
Local drama group
NIL
HR Gallop Gallery
N
N/A
NIL
Arts Studio
N
N/A
NIL
Ph: 02 6938 1416
Appendices
Upgrade of existing facilities is due to take place before new facilities are constructed. Arts Studio only available to those students studying at the TAFE
APPENDIX 4 Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs
Appendices
Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs The Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs (ARCC) is a collective of community cultural clubs which formed in 1981. The ARCC has a long-term lease to utilise the former Senior Citizens Centre on Tarcutta Street. The ARCC Building comprises 1 main hall with kitchen, 2 smaller rooms, storage and toilets. There is separate external entry to all rooms which maximises the multi/shared-use of the building, and ensures all member groups have reasonable access to space for classes, meetings and exhibitions. The following table provides an overview of the member groups of the ARCC.
Group
WW Hand Weavers & Spinners Guild
Machine Knitters of WW
WW Patchwork Quilters Group
Approximat e Membershi p 25
Activities
Teaching Demonstrations
30 - 40
Workshops Exhibitions Seminars Tutorials
30
Exhibitions
WW Antique Society
30 – 35
Restoration Exhibitions/Shows
WW Bonsai Society
30 – 40
Tutorials Exhibitions Workshops
WW & District Garden Club
25
Displays Networking Self-education
WW Porcelain Artists
12
Exhibitions Workshops
WW Potters Club
25
Tutorials Exhibitions Workshops (Group has a Gallery at the ARCC Bldg with a permanent display – open 3 days/week)
WW Stamp Club
45
Swap Meets Exhibitions Guest speakers
Riverina Games Association
NA
Participate in Adult Games Seminars Special weekends away
Affiliate Groups WW Embroiderers Guild Riverina Woodworkers Club Tai Chi
Appendices
APPENDIX 5 Resident Survey Results
Appendices
Resident Survey Results Have you heard of the following cultural facilities? (Frequency) Facility Yes Wagga Wagga City Library 224 Wagga Wagga Art Gallery 217 Museum of the Riverina 187 Hall of Fame/Museum on Willans Hill 132 National Art Glass Gallery 144 208 Civic Theatre The Basement Theatre 134 139 Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music 126
No 5 12 42 97 85 21 95 90 103
Total 229 229 229 229 229 229 229 229 229
(Percentage) Facility Wagga Wagga City Library Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Museum of the Riverina Hall of Fame/Museum on Willans Hill National Art Glass Gallery Civic Theatre The Basement Theatre Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music
No 2% 5% 18% 42% 37% 9% 41% 39% 45%
Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
Yes 98% 95% 82% 58% 63% 91% 59% 61% 55%
If Yes, how often do you visit them? (Frequency) Facility Wagga Wagga City Library Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Museum of the Riverina Hall of Fame/Museum on Willans Hill National Art Glass Gallery Civic Theatre The Basement Theatre Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music
Never 47 80 126 88 95 67 101 93 107
Weekly or more 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2-3 times Few times a Hardly ever per month year 75 75 22 6 49 82 1 19 41 0 9 35 1 10 38 8 60 73 0 14 19 0 14 32 0 4 15
Weekly or more 2% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
2-3 times Few times a Hardly ever per month year 33% 33% 10% 3% 23% 38% 1% 10% 22% 0% 7% 27% 1% 7% 26% 4% 29% 35% 0% 10% 14% 0% 10% 23% 0% 3% 12%
Total 224 217 187 132 144 208 134 139 126
(Percentage) Facility Wagga Wagga City Library Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Museum of the Riverina Hall of Fame/Museum on Willans Hill National Art Glass Gallery Civic Theatre The Basement Theatre Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music
Never 21% 37% 67% 67% 66% 32% 75% 67% 85%
Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
Appendices
What is your level of satisfaction with the cultural experience at the Facility? (Frequency) Facility Wagga Wagga City Library Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Museum of the Riverina Hall of Fame/Museum on Willans Hill National Art Glass Gallery Civic Theatre The Basement Theatre Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music
Very Satisfied
Satisfied
Dissatisfied
30 34 16 5 11 46 6 11 4
140 95 47 37 40 86 32 32 19
4 7 1 3 1 2 0 0 0
Very satisfied
Satisfied
Dissatisfied
13% 16% 9% 4% 8% 22% 4% 8% 3%
63% 44% 25% 28% 28% 41% 24% 23% 15%
2% 3% 1% 2% 1% 1% 0% 0% 0%
Don't know/ no response 50 81 123 87 92 74 96 96 103
Total 224 217 187 132 144 208 134 139 126
(Percentage) Facility Wagga Wagga City Library Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Museum of the Riverina Hall of Fame/Museum on Willans Hill National Art Glass Gallery Civic Theatre The Basement Theatre Riverina Playhouse Riverina Conservatorium of Music
Don't know/ no response 22% 37% 66% 66% 64% 36% 72% 69% 82%
Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
Are you an active member of any arts club or organisation? Percent Frequency No 217 95% Yes 12 5% Total 229
If Yes, which club or organisation? Uni acting/drama group Cootamundra amateur dramatic arts soci Performing arts society Acting groups Civic theatre Dance group Library School production Total
Frequency 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 12
Percent 25% 17% 17% 8% 8% 8% 8% 8% 100%
Appendices
Do you participate in any arts & cultural programs or services, or attend performances or events? Percent Frequency No 148 65% Yes 81 35% Total 229 100% If Yes, which club/group/performance? Various performances Rent (performance) Comedy roadshow Uni performances Gallery changes School perfomances 5 o'clock wave Art exhibitions School of Arts Performing Theatre Melbourne Comedy Festival Museum Total
Frequency 19 14 10 10 8 7 6 3 2 1 1 81
Percent 23% 17% 12% 12% 10% 9% 7% 4% 2% 1% 1% 100%
What factors prevent you from having an active involvement in arts and cultural programs and from attending performances? Factor Don't know what is available Not interested Family/work commitments What I like is not available Time Lack of transport Cost Nothing nearby No-one to go with Total
Frequency 57 46 35 24 14 10 9 3 1 199
% of nonattendees 39% 31% 24% 16% 9% 7% 6% 2% 1%
Are you generally satisfied with the provision of arts & cultural opportunities available within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area? Percent Frequency Yes 148 65% No 23 10% Don't know/no response 58 25% Total 229 100%
Appendices
Thinking specifically about the Wagga Wagga Civic Centre Theatre, what type of shows do you want to see there? Frequency Percent Don't know, I never go there anyway 83 36% Any feedback provided, please list Drama performance Musicals Comedy shows Dance performances Classic plays Aboriginal plays Bands Music performances Singing performaces Talent shows More child friendly events Competitions Movie nights Ballet Concerts Drag shows Total
Frequency 41 20 18 10 7 6 6 5 5 5 3 2 2 1 1 1 133
Percent 31% 15% 14% 8% 5% 5% 5% 4% 4% 4% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% 1% 100%
Thinking specifically about the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, would you like to see more exhibitions of any particular type of art or artist? Frequency Percent Don't know, I am not interested 111 48% I am generally satisfied with the current r 74 32% Feedback (provided below) 30 13% No response 14 6% Total 229 100% Any Feedback Koori and traditional art Abstract art Wider variety of artwork (less aboriginal Australian artists Sculptures Animal artists Foreign artists More touring exhibitions
14 8 5 5 3 2 2 2
Which annual festivals and events held within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area do you attend regularly? % of total Festival/event Frequency surveyed Wagga Jazz Festival 26 11% Summer in the Park Concert Series 11 5% National Horse Festival 31 14% Re:generate youth arts festival 4 2% Carols by Candlelight 19 8% Wagg Food and Wine Festival 33 14% Wagga Gold Cup Meeting 19 8% Twilight by the Lagoon Concerts 7 3% Total 150 Appendices
Any other comments about the current or future provision of arts and cultural facilities and services in Wagga Wagga? Frequency Improved advertising and promotion of e 14 More for children/youth 11 Cheaper events 9 More Equine-based activities 7 More family friendly 3 Civic Theatre should be bigger 3 Child care provided at more events 3 More opportunities for dancers 2 More workshops 1 More transport needed 1 More multicultural events 1 More acting opportunities 1 Less aboriginal art/facilities 1 Involve more aboriginal aspects into soc 1 Increase internet computers at the library 1 Total 59 DEMOGRAPHICS OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS Gender Frequency Male 103 Female 126 Total 229
Percent 45% 55% 100%
What town do you live in? Coolamon Forest Hill Mt austi Wagga Total
Frequency 9 8 1 211 229
Percent 4% 3% 0% 92% 100%
Frequency 56 71 37 28 17 12 8 229
Percent 24% 31% 16% 12% 7% 5% 3% 100%
Frequency 3 216 1 5 2 2 229
Percent 1% 94% 0% 2% 1% 1% 100%
What is your age category? 14-19 years old 20-29 years old 30-39 years old 40-49 years old 50-59 years old 60-69 years old 70-79 years old Total Country of Birth? USA Australia UK China Ireland New zealand Total
Appendices
Cultural Facilities Audit Wagga Wagga LGA
Cultural Venue
Wagga Wagga City Library
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery
Museum of the Riverina Site 1: Historic Council Chambers
Usable Spaces
Regular Users
Activities / Events / Services
Other Comments
approximately 700 visitors daily
Book loans Reference collections Mags, CDs, DVDs Story time sessions - daily Youth Music nights School Holiday activities Book launches Seminars Author talks Poetry readings Internet lessons Exhibitions/school displays Special focus weeks (law, science, youth, etc)
The Library is part of the Riverina Regional Library service. It is regarded as a "village square" for local people, or a community space that is accessible to everyone. The Library is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Large flexible gallery space (with moveable walls) Margaret Carnegie Print Gallery Art Education Room Artist in Residence studio National Art Glass Gallery (separate building)
Riverina Institute of TAFE students CSU students Local Artists
Exhibitions Artist/Curator floor talks Guided tours Exhibition openings Civic receptions Corporate/private functions Performances/productions Artist forums Children's workshops Educational programs for schools 1-2 day workshops Mural program Activart programs for young people
The National Art Glass Collection is the largest national public collection of Australian 'studio' glass and has currently approximately 400 works. The staff also manage the Public Artworks. The Gallery is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Former Council Chamber (meeting area) Main exhibition area Balcony Function area Storage area Chapel
Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society Bikeways Steering Committee Public Utilities Group Traffic Committee
Travelling exhibitions Meetings Public events Awards Special focus weeks (Seniors, Law) Launches (books, etc)
Building is the former Council Chamber. The Museum is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Ground Level: Youth Area, Children's Area, Adult Fiction Level One: Information, Reference Collection, Non-Fictio, ,Magazines, CDs, DVDs, Books on CD, MP3, Cassette, large print
Cultural Facilities Audit Wagga Wagga LGA
Cultural Venue
Museum of the Riverina Site 2: Willans Hill
Civic Theatre
Wollundry Amphitheatre
Music Bowl (Botanic Gardens)
Performance Space Victory Memorial Gardens
Usable Spaces
Regular Users
Activities / Events / Services
Other Comments
Wagga Wagga & District Historical Society
Internal exhibitions Travelling exhibitions Regional outreach program Collection management Workshops Public programs / events
The Museum is adjacent to the Botanic Gardens Willans Hill.
Main 488 seat auditorium Upper foyer Lower foyer Booking Office Basement Theatre (70 seat)
National promoters National touring companies School of Arts Community Theatre Australian Army Band Other community groups / schools Corporates
Dance Music Drama Amateur theatre Conferences Private functions Centralised booking service
The centralised booking service caters for events both within and outside of the Civic Theatre. The lower foyer has a direct outlook and connection with the Wollundry Lagoon. The Civic Theatre is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Outdoor stage and seating Grass surrounds
Riverina Theatre Company School of Arts Community Theatre Wagga Chamber of Commerce Community groups and schools Wagga Wagga Council Staff
Concerts Plays Performances Markets Weddings Other ceremonies / events
There has been a concerted drive to use this facility. It has a convenient, central location in attractive surrounds. Adequate toilet facilities nearby. The Amphitheatre is one part of the Civic Cultural Precinct.
Concerts Weddings
The Music Bowl is used very little since the Amphitheatre was built. A constraint for increased use of the Music Bowl has been conflict with local residential (noise issues and limited parking).
Indoor exhibition space Outdoor historic museum Sporting Hall of Fame Workshop
Stage
Carols by Candlelight Committee
Flat, paved, outdoor stage Grassed open space area Cenotaph Scented garden
Wagga Wagga Council Staff Council festivals and events RSL Weddings Cancer Council Ceremonies (eg ANZAC day)
Some restrictions on use (RSL involvement).
Cultural Facilities Audit Wagga Wagga LGA
Cultural Venue
Usable Spaces
Regular Users
Activities / Events / Services
Other Comments
Riverina Playhouse
249 seat auditorium Thrust stage
Riverina Theatre Company University Theatre Ensemble Riverina Young People's Theatre Other community groups / schools
Association of Riverina Cultural Clubs' (ARCC) Building
Main Hall 2 smaller rooms
Over 15 community-based arts, cultural and hobby clubs
Various art & craft and hobby activities
Site has been occupied by the ARCC since 1981 on a long-term lease.
Conservatorium
Musical tuition Instrumental recitals Music performances Conferences Workshops
Site has a 30 year lease to CSU (commenced 1986)
CSU students CSU past students CSU staff External artists
Exhibitions
Gallery is managed by the School of Visual and Performing Arts
Teaching rooms
Riverina Conservatorium Bannister Room (130 seat capacity) of Music Library CSU South Campus
HR Gallop Gallery CSU North Campus
Administration areas
Single level gallery space
Music Drama
Site has a 30 year lease to CSU (commenced 1986)
Community Halls Wagga Wagga LGA
Hall / CoM Address
Contact
Phone
COLLINGULLIE HALL 2 MacDonald St Collingullie 2652
Margaret Cox
CURRAWARNA HALL Lauderdale Farm RMB Old Narrandera Rd via Wagga Wagga 2650
Barbara Johnston Currawarna Progress Ass'n
DOWNSIDE HALL Talavera, Downside via Wagga Wagga 2650
David Meiklejohn
EUBERTA PUBLIC HALL RMB 130, Old Narrandera Rd via Wagga Wagga 2650
Mr Chris Galloway
FOREST HILL HALL PO Box 92 Forest Hill 2652
Kevin Kerr Forest Hill Progress Ass'n
(02) 6922 7296
GALORE HALL Kalimna Park RMB 1055 Galore 2652
Chris McLure
(02) 6928 2257
HUMULA HALL The Oaks Turnbarumba Rd Humula 2652
Jean Prowse
LADYSMITH MEMORIAL HALL Glencoe Ladysmith 2652
Stanley Wilson
MANGOPLAH HALL Lot 9 Baylis St Mangoplah 2652
Barbara Heffernan
Usable spaces
Current regular users
Activities
CoM
No. on CoM
Utilisation
Midweek day
Midweek evening
Main Hall, supper room, kitchen
CWA - once per mth School - on occasion
Functions Fundraisers
3
12
Low
X
CWA
Hall occasionally used on weekends
Main Hall, storeroom, kitchenette
Church - once per mth Fire Brigade - once per mth
TAFE courses Market days Meetings
3
12
High
TAFE
TAFE
Hall occasionally used on weekends
Main Hall, supper room
Tin Shed Rattlers (Band) Dog Club, Car Club Fire Brigade
Meetings
3
7
Med-High
X
3
Hall mostly used on weekends
Main Hall split into 2 areas
CWA Farmers' Groups
Meetings Parties/functions
3
6
Med
X
X
Hall occasionally used on weekends
1 room
Playgroup
Main Hall split into 2 areas
Tennis Club - summer CWA - once per mth Fire Dept - once per mth
Meetings, Fun days, Family nights, Annual Ball, Xmas tree function
3
10
Low
X
3
Tennis Club utilises Hall during summer tennis season
Main Hall, stage, meeting rooms, billiards room
CWA - once per mth TAFE courses
Meetings Community functions Member of Clubs NSW
3
8
High
X
3
Hall mostly used on weekends
Main Hall, stage, supper room, storeroom, committee room
Preschool - once per wk Red Cross - once per mth Landcare - once per mth
Meetings Flower Show Antique Sales (2 pa)
3
7
Low - Med
Main Hall split into 2 areas, storerooms
Yoga group - once per wk Playgroup - every 2nd wk
Family days Farmers seminars School concerts
3
12
High
Every 2nd Wednesday
Tuesday nights
Hall occasionally used on weekends
Main Hall, kitchen
Tennis club - once per wk Card night - once per mth
Meetings Car Club functions Training
3
8
High
On occasion
Often used
All social events are held on the weekends
Main room, kitchenette
CWA - once per week Mothers Group - once per week Fire Brigade
Meetings, trivia nights, poetry nights, fundraisers etc
3
10
Very high
3
3
Many community functions held on weekends
Main room, kitchen, storeroom + 3 smaller rooms
Permanently used as Opp Shop 3 days per week Elections held there
Meetings Markets Debutant Balls
3
7
Med
3
X
Varies from year to year
2 rooms, stage, kitchen
Progress Assoc - monthly School activities
Meetings
3
3
Low-Med
X
3
As required
Saturday
Sunday
(02) 6920 0163
(02) 6929 1066
0418 243 476
(02) 6922 9469
The key is missing to this Hall and Kevin has no idea who is actually responsible for the Hall
(02) 6928 9224
(02) 6922 1542
Every Thurs On occasion
Hall occasionally used on weekends
(02) 6928 5776
OBERNE COMMUNITY CENTRE Annette Burbidge PO Box 3 Tarcutta 2652
(02) 6928 9523
OURA HALL Wagga Wagga Rd Oura 2652
Jen Thompson Oura Progress Ass'n
(02) 6922 1106
TARCUTTA HALL 51 Sydney Rd Tarcutta 2652
Brian Bates Tarcutta Progress Ass'n
(02) 6928 7066
URANQUINTY HALL PO Box 180 Uranquinty 2652
Andrew Lang Uranquinty Progress Ass'n
(02) 6922 9754
Education Sites' Cultural Facility Audit Wagga Wagga LGA
School / Tertiary
Arts/Cultural/ Music Facilities
Available for External User Groups Community Use
Proposed New / Improved Facilities
Comments (If "No", to available for community use why?)
Primary Schools Ashmont Public Ph: 02 6931 4944
Collingullie Public Ph: 02 6920 0165
Currawarna Public Ph: 02 6929 1039
Forest Hill Public Ph: 02 6922 7251
Gumly Gumly Public Ph: 02 6922 7285
Holy Trinity Ph: 02 6931 3704
Kapooka Public Ph: 02 6931 2703
Kooringal Primary Ph: 02 6922 6443
Ladysmith Public Ph: 02 6922 1524
Lake Albert Public Ph: 02 6922 6400
Lutheran Primary Ph: 02 6926 1414
Mt Austin Public Ph: 02 6925 2481
School Hall
Y
Dance Group
NIL
No requests to use facilities
NONE
N/A
N/A
Nil
Use Collingullie Hall
Community Hall
Y
Church Services Polling Bushfire Meetings
NIL
School Hall
Y
NIL
NIL
Gumly Gumly Hall
Y
Local Community
NIL
Parish Hall
Y
Craft Group
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
School Hall
Y
Karate Group Dance Group
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
School Hall
Y
Church Group Before/After School Care
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
Chapel
Y
Church Services Music/Drama Area
Multipurpose Room
Y
Church Group
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
NONE
NONE
NONE
Hall
No one hires facilities on a regular basis
No additional requests to use facilities
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
School is in desperate need of a hall
Education Sites' Cultural Facility Audit Wagga Wagga LGA
School / Tertiary
North Wagga Public
Arts/Cultural/ Music Facilities
Available for External User Groups Community Use
Proposed New / Improved Facilities
Comments (If "No", to available for community use why?)
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
Facilities are not suitable for external hire
NONE
N/A
NIL
NIL
School uses Parish Centre for all activities
Gym/Hall
Y
Old Time Dance Group Karate Group
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
School Hall
Y
Parish
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
School Hall
Y
Karate Group
NIL
Tolland Public
Large Hall with stage
Y
Church Group
Ph: 02 6931 1263
Library
Y
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
Y
Karate Group Line Dancing Group Rock 'n Roll Group Vacation Care
NIL
Ph: 02 6921 3533
Sacred Heart Catholic Ph: 02 6922 6900
South Wagga Public Ph: 02 6921 2947
St Josephs Primary Ph: 02 6921 5733
Sturt Public Ph: 02 6922 5087
Turvey Park Public Ph: 02 6925 2589
Uranquinty Public Ph: 02 6922 9619
Wagga Wagga Public Ph: 02 6921 3398
School Hall
NIL
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval Principal happy to encourage community use
Education Sites' Cultural Facility Audit Wagga Wagga LGA
School / Tertiary
Arts/Cultural/ Music Facilities
Available for External User Groups Community Use
Proposed New / Improved Facilities
Comments (If "No", to available for community use why?)
Secondary Schools Kildare Catholic College Ph: 02 6925 3388
Mater Dei Catholic Ph: 02 6922 5069
Mt Austin High Ph: 02 6925 2801
Riverina Anglican College HS
School Hall
Y
NIL
Renovations
Facilities are available for hire subject to Principal approval
Performing Arts Centre
Y
NIL
NIL
Brand new school that would be happy to hire to external user groups
Multipurpose Hall
Y
Local Arts/Cultural Group
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
NONE
N/A
N/A
NIL
Ph: 02 6933 1811
Wagga Christian College Ph: 02 6926 2622
Church Group Wagga Wagga HS
School Hall
Y
Ph: 02 6925 3611
Local Exhibitions Other schools
NIL
Amphitheatre
Y
NIL
Drama room within Rec Centre
Y
Local drama group
NIL
HR Gallop Gallery
N
N/A
NIL
Arts Studio
N
N/A
NIL
School is improving the majority of existing facilities
Tertiary
Charles Sturt University Ph: 02 6933 2000
Riverina Institute of TAFE Ph: 02 6938 1416
Upgrade of existing facilities is due to take place before new facilities are constructed.
Arts Studio only available to those students studying at the TAFE