Strategic plan to enhance arts, culture, and heritage in South Burnett

The South Burnett Regional Council has agreed on a special five-year strategy focusing on arts, culture and heritage opportunities throughout the area.

ART BUSTERS: South Burnett councillor Danita Potter and Discover South Burnett volunteer David Gifkins get to know the new statues in Kingaroy.

In an historic move, the South Burnett Regional Council adopted the region’s first arts, culture and heritage strategy during its meeting last month.

The comprehensive five-year plan is designed to grow the creative sector and engage communities in artistic and cultural opportunities.

Wondai Regional Art Gallery.

The strategy prioritises initiatives identified by South Burnett communities and aims to provide direction to the council in facilitating community-driven programs and projects, within the scope of available resources.

The council has committed to measures including co-ordinating local arts, culture, and heritage activities and managing and displaying the council’s art and heritage collections across its facilities.

Objectives include building a competitive advantage for the region, integrating arts and cultural expressions into tourism, addressing skill development needs, promoting place-based projects, and ensuring access to arts, cultural and heritage activities through council-owned infrastructure.

Artwork by Gunggari, Kabi Kabi man Kane Brunjes from Murgon.

Councillor Danita Potter, chairwoman of the Arts, Culture, and Heritage advisory committee, said participating and connecting to arts and heritage had “never been so important”.

“This strategy will support initiatives that will not only strengthen our communities but also our region’s economic growth, community resilience, and the overall wellbeing of our region,” Ms Potter said.

South Burnett councillor Danita Potter and Discover South Burnett volunteer David Gifkins.

Mayor Kathy Duff said the region’s identity was “deeply intertwined with the expression of arts”.

“As mayor, I am proud to lead a council committed to championing these aspects that define us,” Ms Duff said.

“Our local stories, history, cultural heritage, and creativity are fundamental strengths that continue to attract visitors and enrich the lives of those who call this region home.

“By recognising and celebrating these assets, we ensure that the South Burnett remains a vibrant and sought-after destination.”

Originally published as Strategic plan to enhance arts, culture, and heritage in South Burnett