Shoalhaven Arts Board

 

 

Meeting Date:     Wednesday, 18 May, 2022

Location:            Jervis Bay Meeting Room, City Administrative Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra

Time:                   4:00pm

 

Please note: Council’s Code of Meeting Practice permits the electronic recording and broadcast of the proceedings of meetings of the Council which are open to the public. Your attendance at this meeting is taken as consent to the possibility that your image and/or voice may be recorded and broadcast to the public.

 

 

Agenda

 

1.    Apologies

2.    Confirmation of Minutes

·      Shoalhaven Arts Board - 4 April 2022.......................................................................... 1

·      Special Shoalhaven Arts Board - 28 April 2022........................................................... 3

3.    Declarations of Interest

4.    Reports

AB22.19...... Update on Actions - April 2022...................................................................... 5

AB22.20...... Council Policy Revisions - Shoalhaven Libraries - Operations Policy......... 17

AB22.21...... Council Policy Revisions - Shoalhaven Libraries - Children's Policy.......... 29

AB22.22...... Council Policy Revisions - Internet Usage Policy........................................ 36

AB22.23...... Shoalhaven Libraries - Update..................................................................... 45

AB22.24...... Shoalhaven Arts Board - Expression of Interest - Appointment of Community Members....................................................................................................... 49

AB22.25...... Shoalhaven Regional Gallery- Update- February, March, April 2022......... 51

AB22.26...... Update - Shoalhaven Arts Foundation and South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation................................................................................................. 56

AB22.27...... Variation Request - Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants.................................... 67

AB22.28...... Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Update.................................................. 70

AB22.29...... Cultural and Creative Industries Strategy & Planning................................. 75

5.    General Business


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 Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 18 May 2022

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Membership

Ms Christine Dunstan - Chairperson

Clr Tonia Gray

Clr John Kotlash

Clr Moo D’Ath

Clr Patricia White (Alternate)

Clr Paul Ell (Alternate)

Mr Stephen Buzacott

Mr Rob Crow

Mr Frank Howarth

Dr Lynda Kelly

Ms Jenny Thompson

 

 

Quorum – Majority of the members.

 

 

Purpose

a)    To contribute to and develop strategy and policy both for the Shoalhaven City Council as well as in alignment with the Region.

b)    To develop and implement policy, planning and vision for the broad arts within existing resources and use a co-opted panel of peers for professional advice. They include:

·         Visual Arts

·         Heritage and Museum Sector

·         Literature

·         Performing Arts

c)    Advocate and maintain specific arts related portfolios.

d)    Advocate and promote Board recommendations.

 

Delegated Authority

·         Act within adopted budgets aligning with Council’s strategic plans and document, and make recommendations on the arts to Council.

·         Appoint suitable representatives to fill casual vacancies on a set term basis.

·         Inform and recommend policy for arts related funding programs, and where required by Council, vote on related matters.

·         Establish a peer panel of professionals, experts and practitioners across art forms, heritage and cultural platforms to be co-opted as needed for input and advice to the Shoalhaven Arts Board.

·         Establish a Shoalhaven Arts Foundation:

o   To support the development and enrichment of broad arts across the Shoalhaven including visual, heritage, literature & performing arts

o   To ensure that the Foundation in its governance, membership and charter are independent/ and at arms-length from Council yet works in concert with the Shoalhaven Arts Board, Council and the community needs

o   To fundraise and develop a sustainable principal investment to generate ongoing grant funds.

 

Relevant staff will work collaboratively with the Shoalhaven Arts Board to:

·         Develop and implement activities to achieve objectives in line with the Shoalhaven Arts Board recommendations, the Council’s policies and corporate plan.

 


 

 

 

 

Minutes of the Shoalhaven Arts Board

 

 

Meeting Date:     Monday, 4 April 2022

Location:            Email Meeting        

 

 

The following members participated in the e-meeting:

 

Clr Tonia Gray

Clr John Kotlash

Clr Moo D'Ath

Mr Robert Crow

Ms Jenny Thompson

Mr Frank Howarth

Dr Lynda Kelly

Mr Stephen Buzacott

Ms Christine Dunstan

 

 

 

Apologies / Leave of Absence

 

Nil

 

 

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (By consent)

 

That the Minutes of the Shoalhaven Arts Board held on Thursday 03 March 2022 be confirmed.

CARRIED

 

 

 

Declarations of Interest

 

Nil

 

 

Reports

 

AB22.15     Proposal to Change Time of Future Shoalhaven Arts Board Meetings

HPERM Ref: D22/128069

Recommendation

That the start time for meetings of the Shoalhaven Arts Board be amended from 1:00pm to 4:00pm to facilitate attendance of Councillors appointed by the Council as members of the Board

 

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the start time for meetings of the Shoalhaven Arts Board be amended from 1:00pm to 4:00pm to facilitate attendance of Councillors appointed by the Council as members of the Board

For:             Clr Gray, Clr Kotlash, Clr D'Ath, Robert Crow, Jenny Thompson, Lynda Kelly and Christine Dunstan

Against:    Frank Howarth and Stephen Buzacott

CARRIED

 

 

Please note that all meetings will be sent with an audio visual link via Microsoft Teams.

 

There being no further business, the meeting concluded.

 

 

 

Senior Governance Officer

CONVENOR

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

Minutes of the Special Shoalhaven Arts Board

 

 

Meeting Date:     Thursday, 28 April 2022

Location:            Teams Meeting

Time:                   4.00pm

 

 

The following members participated:

 

Clr Tonia Gray

Clr John Kotlash

Clr Paul Ell

Ms Jenny Thompson

Dr Lynda Kelly

Mr Stephen Buzacott

Ms Christine Dunstan

 

Others present:

 

Jane Lewis – Director City Lifestyles

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager – Arts & Culture

Karen Patterson - Manager - Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

 

 

 

 

Apologies / Leave of Absence

 

An apology was received from Frank Howarth.

 

 

Declarations of Interest

 

Nil

 

AB22.18     Election of Chairperson

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager – Arts & Culture assumed the Chair and asked the members present if there were any nominations for the role of Chairperson.

Christine Dunstan was nominated by Clr Gray for the position of Chairperson, seconded by Clr Kotlash. A second nomination for Christine Dunstan was also received from Jenny Thompson.

The Arts Board agreed the election process was conducted fairly and reasonably. Bronwyn Coulston – Manager – Arts & Culture - declared Christine Dunstan as Chairperson.

 

RESOLVED (By consent)

That Christine Dunstan be appointed as Chairperson of the Shoalhaven Arts Board for the two year term to April 2024.

CARRIED

 

 

 

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 4:14pm.

 

 

 

Christine Dunstan

CHAIRPERSON

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

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AB22.19     Update on Actions - April 2022

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/194313

 

Department:       Business Assurance & Risk

Approver:           Kevin Norwood, Manager - Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness  

Attachments:     1.  Action Table - April 2022  

Reason for Report

To provide the Shoalhaven Arts Board with a progress report on outstanding actions.

 

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Update on Actions report for information.

 

 

Options

1.    Adopt the recommendation as written.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board is updated on progress of actions and recommendations made at previous meetings.

 

2.    Request more information.

Implications: Members of the Shoalhaven Arts Board request further information.

 

Background

This report is to update the Shoalhaven Arts Board on outstanding actions from previous meetings.  Attachment 1 provides information regarding the status of actions and resolutions made at previous meetings, including items which are still in progress, and identifies actions that have been completed.

Should Shoalhaven Arts Board members require further information on the status of the actions in the table attached Council staff will provide as requested.

 

Community Engagement

It is important that the members of the Arts Board are kept informed on progress towards the completion of actions and projects. This report provides a structured approach to facilitate this information exchange.

 


 

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AB22.20     Council Policy Revisions - Shoalhaven Libraries - Operations Policy

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/180270

 

Department:       Library Services

Approver:           Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles 

Attachments:     1.  POL22/61 - Shoalhaven Libraries - Operations Policy - Draft Changes   

Reason for Report

To review and reaffirm Shoalhaven Libraries Operations Policy.

 

Recommendation

That Council adopt the revisions of the Shoalhaven Libraries Operations Policy.

 

 

Options

1.    Adopt the recommendations.

Implications: This will allow the inclusion of changes to make the relevant policy appropriate and current.

 

2.    Amend the recommendation.

Implications: : Unknown at this stage.

 

3.    Rescind the policies.

Implications: Not recommended as this will result in a loss of provision and controls for the relevant Policy.

 

Background

Operations Policy

The Shoalhaven Libraries Operations Policy was initially adopted in 2002 and is used to inform library staff and customers of the operations of Shoalhaven Libraries.

A copy of the recommended changes to the policy are detailed in Attachment 1 ‘POL22/61 – Operations Policy – Shoalhaven Libraries – Draft Changes’ and summarised below:

·    Updated legislative references.

·    Updated library membership details, regarding membership categories, loan limits, and library cards.

·    Updated Customers Code of Conduct

 

Community Engagement

The reviews of the Shoalhaven Libraries Operations and Children’s Policies and South Coast Cooperative Libraries Collection Development Policy are considered minor policy changes that do not warrant community engagement.

 

Policy Implications

Reaffirmation of the above policies will make them relevant and up to date.

 

Financial Implications

There are no additional financial implications resulting from reaffirming the above policies.

 


 

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AB22.21     Council Policy Revisions - Shoalhaven Libraries - Children's Policy

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/180349

 

Department:       Library Services

Approver:           Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles 

Attachments:     1.  POL22/59 - Shoalhaven Libraries - Children's Policy - Draft Changes   

Reason for Report

To review and reaffirm Shoalhaven Libraries Children’s Policy.

 

Recommendation

That Council adopt the revisions of the Shoalhaven Libraries Children’s Policy.

 

 

Options

1.    Adopt the recommendation.

Implications: This will allow the inclusion of changes to make the relevant policies appropriate and current.

 

2.    Amend the recommendation.

Implications: Unknown at this stage.

 

3.    Rescind the policies.

Implications: Not recommended as this will result in a loss of provision and controls for the relevant Policy.

 

Background

Children’s Policy

Shoalhaven Libraries Children’s Policy was first created and adopted in 2004 and has been updated over the years.

A copy of the recommended changes to the policy are detailed in Attachment 1 - POL22/59 - Shoalhaven Libraries - Children's Policy - Draft Changes’ and summarised below:

Updated legislative references.

Updated services to children and young people.

 

Community Engagement

The reviews of the Shoalhaven Libraries Children’s Policies are considered minor policy changes that do not warrant community engagement.

 

Policy Implications

Reaffirmation of the above policies will make them relevant and up to date.

 

Financial Implications

There are no additional financial implications result from reaffirming the above policies.

 

 


 

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AB22.22     Council Policy Revisions - Internet Usage Policy

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/195566

 

Department:       Library Services

Approver:           Kevin Norwood, Manager - Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness 

Attachments:     1.  Shoalhaven Libraries - Internet Usage Policy- Draft changes   

Reason for Report

To review and reaffirm Shoalhaven Libraries Internet Usage Policy.

 

Recommendation

That Council adopt the revisions of the Shoalhaven Libraries Internet Usage Policy.

 

 

Options

1.    Adopt the recommendation.

Implications: This will allow the inclusion of changes to make the policy appropriate and current.

 

2.    Amend the recommendation.

Implications: Unknown at this stage.

 

3.    Rescind the policies.

Implications: Not recommended as this will result in a loss of provision and controls for the relevant Policy.

 

Background

Internet Policy

Shoalhaven Libraries Internet Policy was first created and adopted in 2014 and has developed over the years with changes in technology. In the 2020 review major changes were made to reflect our commitment to cyber safety and went out on public exhibition for 28 days.  In this current review only minor changes were made to define usage of the internet service more clearly.

Community Engagement

The reviews of the Shoalhaven Libraries Internet Policy is considered minor policy changes that do not warrant community engagement. 

Policy Implications

Reaffirmation of the above policy will make them relevant and up to date.

Financial Implications

No additional financial implications result from reaffirming the above policy.


 

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AB22.23     Shoalhaven Libraries - Update

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/181137

 

Department:       Library Services

Approver:           Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles  

Reason for Report

To update the Shoalhaven Arts Board on activities and services at Shoalhaven Libraries.

 

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Shoalhaven Libraries Update report for information.

 

 

Options

1.    Receive the report for information.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board will be informed and updated on activities at Shoalhaven Libraries.

 

2.    Request more information.

Implications: Unknown

 

Background

The third quarter of 2021-2022 financial year (January, February, March) saw over 56,000 people come through the doors at Shoalhaven Libraries and borrow nearly 72,000 items. We welcomed over 570 new members and answered nearly 7900 technology, reference, local heritage, and general queries. The Digital Library also loaned 10,661 eBooks, 13,131 eAudiobooks and 3,961 eMagazines.

Although returning to normal operating hours from mid December 2021, COVID still made an impact on library visits and attendances at library events in the early part of the quarter. As COVID restrictions were lifted we have seen the return of babies and toddlers for Rhymetime and Storytime sessions and the slow return of adults attending adult programmes.

From February masks were no longer mandatory and density limits were removed which made it possible to open up more bookings and places for programmes. Throughout this time staff have remained responsive and we are hopeful that people will continue to return to the library to enjoy its services and facilities on offer.

 

Focus Weeks/Months:

During this quarter we celebrated:

·    History Week

·    Harmony Week

·    Seniors Week

·    Women’s History Month

The 2022 theme for History Week was “From the Ground Up’ and this was celebrated with a presentation from Lloyd Pitcher into Shoalhaven’s built heritage. Lloyd uncovered the stories behind the structures, embellished our understanding of past people and events and reminded us of the continuity between past and present.

Harmony Week was held between 21 – 26 March with the theme being “Everyone Belongs”. This was celebrated on March 21st with a Cultural Story Telling presentation, where local residents from Poland and Chile recounted stories of their upbringing and childhood. A special Harmony Day themed Storytime was held for children aged 2-5 years where they could decorate a cardboard hand to be displayed on the Harmony Day tree.

Seniors Week is celebrated during the last week of March and is aimed at delivering engaging activities for people over 60 years of age. We promoted the week with a Lunchtime Quiz, Craft Sessions, Tech & Tea and a variety of other technology classes.

Author Talks:

With COVID restrictions lifted we were able to offer the library space for author talks and book launches once again. The authors that held talks and launched their publications were: Christine Cummins, discussing her book “Dignity in a Teacup”; Michele Browne discussing her book “Beyond the Reef” and Paula J. Beavan, discussing her novel “Daughter of the Hunter Valley.” A special book launch was held by 10-year-old local author Cosette Richardson sharing her debut novel “Lavender Makes a Friend.”

Online author talks are continuing to be offered with the NSW State Library hosting an online conversation with Amelia Mellor, the author of “The Grandest Bookshop in the World.”

 

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Online Assistance:

Libraries continue to provide a lot of digital assistance to all members of the community. During this quarter we have provided regular free tech help sessions, Tech Savvy Senior sessions covering such things as Internet Safety, Introduction to Emails, Introduction to Smartphones, Introduction to video calling, Introduction to transport apps, Introduction to Social Media, sharing photos online, Introduction to iPads and an introduction to Androids. 

Local Heritage:

The Local Heritage Collection is a unique part of our library service, and we love promoting the resources and services that we provide. Our weekly Facebook Flashback Friday posts highlight our local heritage and recent topics have been: The History of Hyams Beach & District; Narrawallee Inlet and the old railway line; Sussex Inlet; St. George’s Basin and the boarding house of Mr Ellmoos; Milton Public School; Ulladulla Public School; Croobyar National School; The Burrill Lake School; The Wreck of the Walter Hood; Bawley Point; and Meroogal.

There was a focus on the Southern Shoalhaven Schools for Flashback Fridays to coincide with a live webinar showing digital copies of the Ulladulla Schools archives and a question-and-answer session in conjunction with the NSW State Archives.

We have recently purchased equipment to enable staff to commence recording oral histories for an NSW State Library programme regarding multicultural communities. Five oral history recordings are planned to be completed over the next few months, of which two have been recorded and are now being transcribed.

Other Public Programmes:

Our Children’s programmes resumed to full capacity in February and these sessions continue to be extremely popular. In addition to these sessions, all Shoalhaven Libraries members have free access to our digital resource Story Box Library, which has engaging online stories read aloud by favourite storytellers.

A special “Speechie” Story Time was held on March 1 by local speech pathologist Christopher Bogg. Christopher read stories and discussed how parents and caregivers can support their child’s language and literacy development.

Lego and Coders Club also resumed with good numbers and fantastic work has been created by the children.

The winners of our summer bookmark competition were announced. Two adult and six junior designs were selected and will now be printed as a series and handed out to library patrons.

Movies at Midday resumed at Nowra and Ulladulla Library with viewings of Days of Bagnold Summer, Tracks, No Time to Die and In the Heights.

The Pathfinders programme continued with presentations by Lloyd Pitcher on February 9 titled “From the Ground Up”. This talk coincided with History Week as Lloyd uncovered the stories behind Shoalhaven structures. Lloyd’s talk on March 16 told of the Highland Clearances 1760-1850. This talk explored the history of the forced eviction on the inhabitants of the Highlands and Western islands of Scotland.

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Sanctuary Point Library:

The new Sanctuary Point library project continues to progress well. Library and council staff are currently working with the architects on finalising some of the internal elements. The Public Art component is also tracking well, and the working group has developed a strong cultural narrative which will provide a framework for the project moving forward.

Shoalhaven Libraries Strategic Plan:

Work continues in updating the Shoalhaven Libraries Strategic Plan. The current plan was completed last year, and we recently held SWOT sessions involving library staff for feedback. An analysis of the SWOT feedback is currently being collated and this will be used in conjunction with customer survey responses, professional public library research, benchmarking, statistics and industry trends to form the new plan.

New Mobile Library:

Plans for the  new mobile library are well underway and are close to completion. Specifications for the truck include wheelchair access, skylights and a solar battery system. The possibility of an electric/hybrid vehicle is also being investigated.

 


 

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AB22.24     Shoalhaven Arts Board - Expression of Interest - Appointment of Community Members

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/183472

 

Department:       Library Services

Approver:           Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles  

Reason for Report

For the Shoalhaven Arts Board to appoint [number to be decided at meeting] community members to the Board to fill the vacancies that have arisen due to changes in Board membership. 

 

Recommendation

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board, as recommended by the selection panel, appoint the following community members to a two (2) year term:

1.    (insert successful applicants’ names as determined at the meeting)

 

 

Options

1.    Adopt the recommendations of the selection panel for the appointment of community members to the Shoalhaven Arts Board.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board will have full membership and continue to provide strategic and policy advice to Council as a section 355 committee.

 

2.    Reject the recommendation of the selection panel and appoint other applicants to the Shoalhaven Arts Board as community members.

Implications: The appointed community members may not be the most suitable candidates for furthering the aims of the Arts Board at this time.

 

3.    Reject the recommendation of the selection panel and not appoint any of the applicants to the Shoalhaven Arts Board. 

Implications: The vacant positions will be declared casual vacancies and will be filled in-line with the Terms of Reference for the Shoalhaven Arts Board. The Arts Board may have problems achieving a quorum until these positions are filled.   

 

Background

Vacancies have arisen in the Shoalhaven Arts Board, due to the expiration of two Board memberships of Dr. Peter Lavelle and Alison Chiam, and an ongoing vacancy for a designated Aboriginal Local Member. 

An Expression of Interest was conducted in order to fill these community representative vacancies for two weeks and applications closed on 6 May 2022.  Four (4) nominations were received and in accordance with the Shoalhaven Arts Board Terms of Reference applications were reviewed and interviews were conducted with a panel consisting of the Shoalhaven Arts Board Chairperson, a Council staff member, and one (1) suitably qualified independent representative. 

Applicants were asked to address specific areas of the Terms of Reference and the Arts Board Strategic Plan and were considered based on their understanding of the purpose of the Shoalhaven Arts Board; the diverse skills and experiences they brought and how those fitted into the Membership aims of the Terms of Reference (POL 22/69 3.3), and their understanding of the Shoalhaven Arts Board Strategic Plan. 

Under the Membership criteria of the Shoalhaven Arts Board Terms of Reference (POL22/69) it is recommended that community members are chosen to represent the areas of:

·    Health & Wellbeing,

·    Education,

·    Arts Institutions,

·    Artists, and

·    Corporate / Business.

The importance of bringing a range of strategic capability, experience and advice from within the arts is also noted. 

The interviews had not been held at the time of the report being written, and thus a written summary report will be prepared and a verbal report shall be provided to the Board with the recommendation for appointment.

 

Community Engagement

The opportunity to nominate for membership was advertised widely across the Shoalhaven, with public notices placed in the papers, social media callouts and direct emails to a range of individuals and organisations with specific interest in the arts. 

 

Policy Implications

The recruitment and selection process was carried out in accordance with the Shoalhaven Arts Board Terms of Reference (POL 22/69)

 

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications related to the appointment of members to the Shoalhaven Arts Board. Funding to support the arts and cultural activities is provided by Council and administered through the Arts and Culture Unit. 

 


 

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AB22.25     Shoalhaven Regional Gallery- Update- February, March, April 2022

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/184063

 

Department:       Arts & Culture

Approver:           Kevin Norwood, Manager - Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness  

Reason for Report

To inform the Shoalhaven Arts Board of the activities and events that have occurred at Shoalhaven Regional Gallery for the period of February, March and April 2022.

 

 

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Regional Gallery report for information.

 

 

Options

1.    Receive the report for information.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board will be informed of the activities and achievements of Shoalhaven Regional Gallery

 

2.    Request more information.

Implications: Unknown

 

Background

Shoalhaven Regional Gallery has delivered a wide range of exhibition and activities in the period from February 2022 – April 2022.

 

Exhibitions

February saw the start of four new exhibitions, with Peter Sharp’s touring show, Accidental Tourist displayed in the Main Gallery open from 5 February until 26 March 2022. The exhibition consisted of forty ‘plein air’ paintings selected from his practice over the past thirty years. In situ, photographs of the painted view illuminate the artist’s process of capturing the essence of the landscapes with which he engages.

New Horizon’s works displayed in the Foyer GalleryA room with pictures on the wall

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Peter Sharp & his exhibition, Accidental Tourist

 

Kanun Onsel’s Illusions Aboard featured in the Foyer Gallery, from 5 February until 26 February 2022. Kanun is a Cambewarra based, emerging artist whose work consists of a series of panels in a range of sizes, each with its own unique geometric patterns inspired by interpretations of angles and illusions on walls, buildings, and architectural sites.

Louisa Chircop’s Nebuchadnezzar Tree Dreaming exhibited in the Access Gallery from 5 February until 26 February 2022. The exhibition illustrated personal and universal evocations exploring power, lust, greed, pleasure, guilt, and emotional, spiritual, and physical deprivation and highlights the artist's ongoing interest in hybrid dialogues between art history and psychological phenomenon. Each work on paper was accompanied by a response in clay to further reinforce surreal and existential insights into the artists’ work and creative process.

Regenerate was displayed in the East Gallery from 5 February until 26 February 2022 and was developed with Shoalhaven primary schools and community members to look at the way Australian bushland responds to fire, in particular the regeneration that occurs in Australian bushland after bushfires. During 2021,Shoalhaven Regional Gallery supplied leaf and new growth templates printed on card for people to cut out and decorate in any materials, in either drab 'burnt' colours or bright, 'new leaf' colours. These were then installed on a series of hanging ribbons to create a curtain of colour and pattern for visitors to enjoy. 

Regenerate was developed by Orange Regional Museum and Orange Regional Gallery who then generously shared the project with Shoalhaven Regional Gallery to aid recovery and resilience for our school community after the lived experience of 2019 - 2020 Black Summer fires.

New Horizons showcased 2021 HSC Visual Arts from across the Shoalhaven, from 5 March until 26 March 2022. Schools participating this year were Bomaderry High School, Kiama High School, Nowra Anglican College, Nowra High School, Nowra Christian School, Shoalhaven High School, St John the Evangelist Catholic High School, Ulladulla High School, and Vincentia High School.

Visitor comments included:

·    Got great enjoyment from viewing Peter Sharp’s work, enjoyed the short documentary too. Very interesting.

·    The HSC students works were original and unpretentious. Most impressive! I found this exhibition much more satisfying than ARTEXPRESS at AGNSW

·    Appreciated hearing Louisa Chircop discuss her work

·    Fascinated by Peter Sharp’s small format painted on board and framed.

 

Public Programs

Our Public Programs came back into full swing with the updated Public Health Guidelines.

The Art after School classes began in February 2022 and three different age groups enjoyed classes for Term 1 with our educator, Nicole Ison. Two out of the three classes were completely booked out and the students were enthusiastic to be back in the Art Studio again.

The Artways class ran for two 4-week blocks from February to April 2022, focusing on Mixed Media Artist Books.

Peter Sharp led a Plein Air Painting workshop at Voyager Park, Huskisson on 12 March 2022, sharing his insights into how to create a painting on site. Giving practical techniques and creative and technical ‘hacks’ gleaned over years of making paintings in the landscape.

Artist, Tamara Dean, lead a guided tour of the Art Walk on 17 March 2022, featuring her photography works from Bomaderry to Nowra. The Art Walk is funded by the NSW Government through the Streets as Shared Spaces project.

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Participants at Peter Sharp’s Plein Air Painting workshop

 

Grant Funded Projects

Arts and Culture department continue to apply for and receive funding for a range of activities.

The freestanding modular wall system funded through Create NSW’s Create Capital Program are expected to be delivered in June 2022.

The final component of the forecourt upgrade, funded through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program (Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications), has been delayed until the end of August 2022.

The final stage includes the installation of planter boxes and seats in the forecourt to create a welcoming space that encourages community members to engage with the gallery and enjoy green space in the CBD.

The Streets as Shared Spaces public art project (funded through Dept of Planning and Environment) has now had all components delivered. Recently completed projects include the Forecourt activation and public artwork at Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre. This project will be formally launched on the 5 June 2022, and the Gateway project will have a community celebration on the 28 May 2022.

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The Regional Cultural Fund Digitisation Project (funded by Create NSW through the Regional Cultural Fund Digitisation round) continues to be delivered with consultants pivoting to digital delivery where possible. Museums have continued to deliver articles for digitisation and inclusion in the ‘Collections and Stories’ project delivered by Museums and Galleries NSW. Photography of the articles for digitisation has continued through February, March, and April 2022. The storyplace website, which features items from across regional NSW, was launched on the 5 May 2022.

‘A new welcome – enhancing the entrance at Lake Tabourie Museum’ (CHART Grant) from the Culture, Heritage, Arts Regional Tourism fund was awarded and is expected to be delivered within the next two months. This grant will see the addition of new signage & a showcase display cabinet at the Lake Tabourie Museum.

Current Grant submissions awaiting determination include:

·    ‘Plant your Feet’ – a major solo exhibition by Glenn Barkley – funding sought from Create NSW through their Local Govt Authority Project round – submitted January 2022.

·    ‘Jack’s Back’ – a framework for the Lake Tabourie Museum Collection – funding sought from Create NSW through their Local Govt Authority Project round – submitted January 2022.

·    ‘Create Stay Play – Developing a Creative Economy Strategy for the Shoalhaven’ – funding sought from the Building Better Regions Fund Community Investment Stream – submitted February 2022.

·    ‘Blurring Boundaries – exhibition research and development by Tianli Zu in partnership with Shoalhaven Regional Gallery’ – funding sought from the Australia Council Project round – submitted February 2022.

 

Current / Coming up

Currently exhibiting in the Gallery are two brilliant shows. Graham Blondel’s Mindscapes in the Main and Foyer Gallery displays abstract artworks that have a diverse universal narrative derived from his domestic life, extensive travels, street art, his interest in all cultures, especially tribal and a love of art history. There are elements of Pop art and graphic street art in his works.

In the Access and East Gallery, Zanny Begg’s exhibition, These Stories Will be Different is playing out. Bringing together three of the artist’s most significant video installations, including The City of Ladies (with Elise McLeod) 2017, The Beehive 2018, and Stories of Kannagi 2019. This exhibition is a UNSW Galleries and Museums & Galleries of NSW touring exhibition. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

 


 

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AB22.26     Update - Shoalhaven Arts Foundation and South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/185778

 

Department:       Arts & Culture

Approver:           Kevin Norwood, Manager - Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness 

Attachments:     1.  Shoalhaven Arts Foundation Funding Needs and Way Forward - Ordinary Meeting - 26 April 2022

2.  South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation - Update & Request To Council - Ordinary Meeting 26 April 2022   

Reason for Report

To inform the Arts Board of the decision made by Shoalhaven City Council regarding funding for the Arts Foundation and the Regional Arts Development Organisation (RADO).

 

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report be received for information.

 

 

Options

1.    Accept the recommendation.

Implications: All members of the Arts Board are informed about the decision of Council

 

2.    Amend the recommendation.

Implications: Unknown

 

Background

At Council’s Ordinary Meeting held on 26 April 2022, Shoalhaven City Council received reports with requests for funding to support the Shoalhaven Arts Foundation and the South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation.  The reports are attached. 

As per MIN22.302 and MIN22.301 presented below, Council voted in favour of funding both of these initiatives to the full value requested.

RESOLVED (Clr Ell / Clr White)                                                                         MIN22.302

That Council:

1.    As part of the 2022/23 budget preparations, allocate funding for the establishment of the Shoalhaven Arts Foundation for three years. Funding amounts to be:

a)   $150,000 in the 2022/23 Financial year

b)   $150,000 in the 2023/24 Financial year

c)   $100,000 in the 2024/25 Financial year

2.    Progress the formal establishment of the Shoalhaven Arts Foundation as a legal entity.

For:     Clr Findley, Clr Kotlash, Clr Norris, Clr Butler, Clr D'Ath, Clr Ell, Clr Christen, Clr White, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Gray

Against:    Nil

CARRIED

 

RESOLVED (Clr Butler / Clr D'Ath)                                                                    MIN22.301

That Council:

1.    Support the continued development and establishment of the South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation;

2.    Nominate Councillor Tonia Gray to represent Shoalhaven City Council on the Board of the South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation with an appropriate staff member as support person and proxy;

3.    Allocate $38,825 from the general funds in the 2022/23 FY budget as Council’s financial contribution and recurrent funding + 3.5% increase year on year thereafter.

4.    Approve under delegation that the Chief Executive Officer (Director City Lifestyles) enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with South Coast Regional Arts Development Organisation which will also detail the provision of in-kind support to be provided by Council.

For:     Clr Findley, Clr Kotlash, Clr Norris, Clr Butler, Clr D'Ath, Clr Ell, Clr Christen, Clr White, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Gray

Against:    Nil

CARRIED

 

Funding for these projects has been included in the Draft Budget. The Budget will be adopted following the exhibition period for the Delivery Program and Operational Plan at the end of June 2022. 

 

Community Engagement

The RADO and the Arts Foundation are being established as independent, Not-for-Profit organisations. Council will maintain a relationship with the Boards of the organisations and may undertake community engagement with the organisations as appropriate. 

 

Policy Implications

With the establishment of the Shoalhaven Arts Foundation, the Arts Board may wish to consider adjusting their terms of reference to provide membership to a representative from the Foundation on the Board. This change will be considered at a suitable time in the establishment process of the Foundation. 

 

Financial Implications

The RADO will seek annual funding from Council in line with Create NSW’s recommended annual increase. This funding will be negotiated each year by the Board of the RADO and Council. 

The Shoalhaven Arts Foundation should be self-sufficient after three years and no further funding requests are anticipated from that organisation.

   


 

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AB22.27     Variation Request - Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/185881

 

Department:       Arts & Culture

Approver:           Kevin Norwood, Manager - Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness 

Attachments:     1.  Grant Variation Request - Alaska Turner   

Reason for Report

To inform the Shoalhaven Arts Board of variation requests received by recipients of the 2020/21 and 2021/22 Arts Board Grants Programs.

 

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That, under the Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Guidelines:

1.    Approval to vary project activities be given to Alaska Turner and Joanna Thomas.

2.    Approval for a time variation be given to for Alaska Turner.

 

 

Options

1.    Accept the recommendation

Implications: The grant recipients will be able to carry out the new program of activities and meet the intended outcomes of their Professional Development Grant.

 

2.    Amend the recommendation

Implications: Unknown.

 

3.    Reject the recommendation

Implications: The grant recipients will be asked to return the awarded funds to Council.  The funds will be returned to the General Fund and will not be available for additional Professional Development Projects. 

 

Background

Alaska Turner was awarded a Professional Development grant under the 2020/21 Arts Board Grants program for travel to the United State to undertake a program of activities as part of the Aussie All Stars – American Junior Theatre Festival Tour.  Due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions, this event was postponed and Alaska has recently been informed of program changes which mean she is no longer able to attend.  Alaska has sourced alternate opportunities which provide her with the same level of professional development she would have achieved on the original tour and asks for approval to vary her program and timeline for delivery. Attachment 1 refers to the alternate program.

Joanna Thomas was awarded a Professional Development Grant under the 2021/22 Arts Board Grants Program to undertake a short course with the Botanical Artists’ Society of QLD in the use of colour pencils in Botanical Art.  This course is no longer being offered by the Society as they have entered caretaker mode.

Joanna has researched alternate opportunities to develop these skills and has received a positive response from the artist Melinda Exstein for a program of individual tutoring in Sydney. Melinda Edstein has recently been awarded the Silver Gilt Award for Botanical Art at the RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show and also exhibits at the Saatchi Gallery, London. Joanna asks for approval to vary her program of activities and undertake this alternate avenue for achieving the increased skills in Botanical Art. 

 

Community Engagement

The Professional Development Grants supports Shoalhaven artists to increase their skill set and career opportunities, supporting a more diverse arts eco-system across the Shoalhaven and enhancing artists’ ability to give back to the community through their chosen field. 

 

Financial Implications

The funding for these grants has already been allocated in the current and previous budgets.  If the program variations are not approved, the grant recipients will be required to return any funding received to date which will be returned to Council’s General Fund. 

 


 

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AB22.28     Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Update

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/196794

 

Department:       Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

Approver:           Kevin Norwood, Manager - Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness  

Reason for Report

To inform Shoalhaven Arts Board of recent and future programming, events and community engagement activities at Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.

 

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Sholhaven Arts Board receives the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Update report for information.

 

 

Options

1.   Receive the report for information

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board members are kept updated and apprised of programming, events and community engagement activities at Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

 

2.   Request for more information

Implications: Unknown

 

Background

Following long periods of closure due to COVID-19 during 2020 and 2021, the Centre was also closed for essential maintenance works from December 2021 until April 2022. The installation of a fire suppression system throughout the venue was undertaken during this most recent shut-down period. The Centre re-opened on Monday, 11 April 2022, after a huge effort from staff to reinstate the kitchens, café, foyer and rehang every theatrical fixture in both performance spaces.

In the first 28 days of operation, more than 5,000 people have attended 21 ticketed performances at the Centre. Venue hires for performances have included an international comedy act and a junior community theatre production. There have also been a variety of business events including meetings, presentations and a jobs fair with more than 30 stallholders.

 

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Viva Italia!

Within 24 hours of opening, the venue bumped in its first two (2) productions. ‘Viva Italia!’ a Morning Matinee, starring Jane Rutter, was a popular success with patrons on 12 April 2022, almost 400 patrons enjoyed the complimentary morning tea and gave positive reviews of the performance.

 

Culture Counts Social Impact Survey Results:

·    Cultural Contribution 88%

·    Access: 91%

·    Presentation: 88%

·    Local Impact: 94%

 

Miss Rutter emailed a post-show thank-you:

“It was gratifying to be your very first concert in 2022 – nice to see such a big crowd in spite of COVID!

The musicians and I were very pleased to be playing in such a marvellous concert hall: great venue with fabulous staff and facilities.

Would you please pass on my warmest regards and congratulations especially to your technical crew who did an exemplary job - just fantastic…

Technicians like those at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre make our performance work much easier.  Please thank them again for us.

(As a musician I should add that the new sound system is wonderful…)

Thanks again, very best regards, Jane Rutter”

 

 

 

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Alphabet of Awesome Science:

The second 2022 Season production ‘Alphabet of Awesome Science’ was performed twice on 12 April 2022 in the Studio theatre.  Children, parents and grandparents enjoyed the scientific race through the alphabet which featured explosive science experiments.  The shows were five (5) sales short of a double sell-out.

 

Culture Counts Social Impact Survey Results:

·    Cultural Contribution 81%

·    Access: 72%

·    Presentation: 89%

·    Local Impact: 90%

 

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Jane Eyre

Queensland based thatre company shake + stir remounted their production of ‘Jane Eyre’ in the Auditorium in the first week of May in preparation for a 40 venue tour across Australia.  The performances on 7 & 8 May 2022 were well received.

The community engagement offered in connection with this production included a literary discussion with direction Michael Futcher and the company’s co-director Nelle Lee who adapted the classic for the stage and also plays the lead role.

The literary discussion, which was free to members and ticketholders, was held on 3 May 2022 in The Studio and was attended by 37 people including high school students right through to lifelong Charlotte Brőnte fans in their eighties.

As a professional development opportunity, Shoalhaven community theatre companies and high schools offering drama were invited to attend an open dress rehearsal of ‘Jane Eyre’.  This was attended by 31 people.

 

Culture Counts Social Impact Survey Results:

·    Cultural Contribution 85%

·    Access: 82%

·    Presentation: 92%

·    Local Impact: 92%

 

Lloyd Webber and Friends – Morning Matinee

More than 500 people attended ‘Lloyd Webber and Friends’ performed by musical theatre star Ian Stenlake, Michelle Fitmzmaurice and musical dirctor Andrew Worboys on 12 May 2022   At the time of finalising this report, the Culture Counts survey had not been completed.

 

The Rivoli

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre offered its first outreach programming in March with the Rivoli, a work by Dance Makers Collective which was a celebration of social life before social media. Two (2) performances were offered at Kangaroo Valley Hall and two (2) performances were offered at Ulladulla Civic Centre.

The Collective worked with up to eight (8) teenage dancers from dance schools in Milton and Nowra.  In additon to the workshops and rehearsals, the community dancers performed with the company.  All four (4) performances were accompanied by a five (5) piece Shoalhaven band.  Audience members were encouraged to dance with the cast prior to and following each performance.

Collective members conducted interviews with community members in Kangaroo Valley, Shoalhaven Heads and Ulladulla to capture their memories of dance hall days.  These recordings, which included stories of racing from the hall to the pub in between band sets at Kangaroo Valley Hall in the 1960’s, were woven into the soundscape of the performances adding local resonance to the production.

 

Professional Affiliations and Professional Development

Council’s Shoalhaven Entertianment Centre Manager continues as Arts on Tour Deputy Chair; and continues as an executive member of the NSW and ACT Performing Arts Centres Association.

In February, Council’s Shoalhaven Entertianment Centre Manager was invited to the Adelaide Fringe, as a HoneyPot Delegate to preview comedy, cabaret, physical and family theatre productions.  The Fringe assisted with the cost of flights and covered accommodation costs.

 

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Arty Farty Party

The Shoalhaven’s first children’s festival, The Arty Farty Party, a joint collaboration of Shoalhaven Regional Gallery, Shoalhaven Libraries and the Entertainment Centre will be held on Saturday, 2 July 2022.

The program of visual, literary and performing arts, will be staged in both theatres and on the Centre’s forecourt.  The forecourt activation is funded by a Festivals Australia grant.

On the Centre’s stages, there will be two performancs each of Circa’s Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus (pictured) and Asking for Trouble’s FoRT.  The forecourt program will include roving acts, dance performances by Shaun Parker Company, storytime and Arena Theatre Company’s Hidden Creatures Gallery.

Details are available at www.shoalhavenentertainment.com.au

 


 

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AB22.29     Cultural and Creative Industries Strategy & Planning

 

HPERM Ref:       D22/163142

 

Select:                Frank Howarth  

 

Recommendation

That Council provide an update to the Shoalhaven Arts Board on any cultural and creative industries strategy and planning that is underway or proposed.

 

 

Details

A well planned approach to fostering cultural development and creative industries in the Shoalhaven is important to the future of arts, culture and creative industries in our LGA.