Yes, it was hot but that’s not all that was cooking in Cooktown. Over two days the cultural and community heroes of the region come out in numbers to participate in grant writing and project management workshops. It was wonderful to experience Cooktown again after five years (QMF@Cooktown – see pic) and a great pleasure to spend  quality time with such a hardy, committed  enthusiastic  group. Still one of my favourite places.

Happily spent another 24 hrs in Quilpie working with the local cultural champions on the review and development of the RADF program. Loads of great passion and enthusiasm for keeping the culture vital. With the Arts and Cultural Plan just about in place, local priorities will be at the forefront of future projects and activities. A cultural oasis.

Post Script: Woohoo – the Arts & Cultural Plan was passed by Council and we’re on our way.

No dragons in St George, just a wonderful group of enthusiastic artists, artisans and artworkers keen to learn more about how to go about setting up a professional business. This is the first of a series of 3 workshops on how to develop your arts business idea and to get your wares or services to market. A great couple of days. Thanks St George Arts Council; look forward to my return soon.  I’ll bring some more rain!

Happy to return to Gladstone for what was a suite of workshops for local artists and arts workers. This time it was the How To of: grant writing; project planning and management; and one of my favourites, writing about, documenting and presenting your art. Three great days with some wonderful people, all most efficiently coordinated by the ubiquitous and thoroughly delightful Di Paddick. Thanks for a great trip (once again ably facilitated by Flying Arts).