2. Supporting the ARTS in Rural Communities

3. Why are the Arts so Important to Rural Communities Bringing communities and people together – Social Isolation, all ages participate, learn together, skills transfer Encouraging Creativity – Can do attitudes, self esteem Social and Economic Benefits – Micro-business Incubator, Tourism/Festivals/Retail Tyranny of Distance from Major Art Centres

4. Events supported by MNDCF Mirboo North Art Show Mirboo North Arty Gras Mirboo North Art Space Boolarra Festival Boolarra Youth Theatre Fiddlehead Festival Yinnar

5. Mirboo North Art Show Annual Art Show – Mothers Day Weekend – Run by Primary School Parents – Over 4,000 visitors – Generates around $20,000 for Primary School Major Event for Gippsland Auction of Primary School Students Artwork Youth involved in Event Management Iphoneography – Youth Engagement

7. Mirboo North Arty Gras Celebration of Community Annual Event linked to Art Show Street Parade, 700 participants, 60 Community Groups – Floats, Bands, Horses, Mums on Mowers, Kids and Child Care Major Country Market Side Shows and Musical Events Youth Workshops – Music and Theatre Great fun for all Age groups

9. Mirboo North Art Space Strategic Grant – 3 Year Seed funding Community Owned Art Space Major Social and Economic Benefits – Retail Store – Artists Display for Sale – Micro-business Incubator Workshops – Art, Music, Creative Crafting. Link to Art Show and Arty Gras

11. Conclusion/Future Potential Need for support in Rural Communities Need Seed Funding not just one-offs The Arts are Vital for Rural communities Wellbeing Future Potential Italian FESTA – Food, market, musical events, side shows – Religious festival. Mass in the Park Health & Wellbeing Theatre – Local Gippsland group staging – Depression and Mental Health.