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A local woman’s dream of a vibrant creative space for artists to utilise in the Mackay region has been brought to fruition thanks to funding from the Regional Arts and Development Fund (RADF).

Margaret Burgess received funding last year as part of Round 1 in the 2011/12 budget for RADF.

RADF committee Vice-Chair and Rural Communities portfolio councillor Wendy Cameron said the RADF is a partnership between Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland to support local arts and culture.

From its beginnings in 1991, RADF now supports more than 3000 arts and cultural projects each year in communities across Queensland.

“Margaret was awarded $2520 in Round 1 to assist with the cost of wages for concept development for her project, Paxton’s Creative Space and Upstairs Gallery,” Cr Cameron said.

“Since opening late last year, the venue located in the historical Paxton’s building on 10 River Street has already held a variety of events and exhibitions including an art exhibition as part of the 2011 River 2 Reef Festival,” she said.

RADF recipient and local artist, Margaret Burgess said the idea originated when she realised that she wanted to create a space for the development and promotion of art and artists to reflect our diverse creative community.

“Having been a resident of the region for all of my life, I felt that this was the missing link that could help create a bridge for local artists and art works to develop from amateur to emerging professional, as well as develop a market for their work,” she said.

Margaret is in the final stages of officially opening the last segment of Paxton’s Creative Space and Upstairs Gallery on January 25. To make contact with Margaret in regards to utilising the venue for corporate functions, workshops and exhibitions phone 0401 834 829 or email robandmarg7@bigpond.com.

Cr Cameron said council is currently calling for Round 3 applications for the 2011/12 RADF budget set to close next month on Wednesday, February 22 at 4.30pm.

The upcoming round is for projects commencing after Monday, March 26, 2012.  

“The process to some may seem overwhelming; however, it doesn’t have to be that way. Council has two Arts Development Officers who are here to assist with residents in regards to completing all the required paperwork in order to apply for RADF money.”

All documents for RADF grants are available for download at council’s website.

Those wishing to seek additional help in regards to completing an application can make an appointment with an Arts Development Officer by phoning council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

Contact: Mackay Regional Council

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)