Artists from the Yarra Ranges and beyond can pitch for cash for Black Saturday bushfire-related projects.
The State Government’s 2009 Bushfires Community Arts Grants Program is open for applications.
Regional Arts Victoria is distributing up to $8000 for each of the 21 municipalities the bushfires directly affected.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Len Cox encouraged local artists and groups to think about the impact the fires had on their community and to make an application.
“Black Saturday was one of the most devastating events to occur in the Yarra Ranges and around the state,” he said.
“In many ways, it has shaped our lives and the way council works in the last nine years.”
Cr Cox said the State Government announced funding for Black Saturday commemorative events, memorial restoration or community development activities earlier this year.
“This round of funding is about helping artists to create work that reflects the experience of their community,” he said.
“It would be great to see our vibrant and diverse artistic community use this opportunity to tell the stories of the Yarra Ranges’ experience, 10 years on.
“I would also encourage our artists to look at other grants funding to help secure their project, such as council’s monthly small grants program.”
Individuals applying for funding must have an ABN or an auspice organisation to manage their grant.
Grants will be assessed at multiple dates between the funding round’s opening on Monday 22 October and 31 January.
“This means the $8000 for each municipality may be allocated before the closing date,” Cr Cox said.
“If you’ve got a great idea for an art project, I urge you to get your application in quickly.”
Visit rav.net.au or contact Regional Arts Victoria’s grants project manager Amanda Gibson on 0431 795 099 or agibson@rav.net.au.
For more information about the council’s small grants, visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/smallgrants.
