Mid West organisations secure funding under Aboriginal Business Development and Capacity Building program

Two local organisations will share in $60,000 to boost their development in the regional Aboriginal arts and cultural sector.

Across WA, from the Kimberley to the South West, eights arts groups were awarded almost $240,000 as part of the Aboriginal Business Development and Capacity Building program.

The scheme offers grants of up to $30,000 to provide business development support for planning and skill development and comes under the McGowan Government’s $20 million Regional Arts and Cultural Investment Program.

Funding can be used for costs associated with training, professional development, consultation, publishing, promotion and research.

Geraldton-based Yamaji Art (Mara Arts Aboriginal Corporation) was awarded $30,000 for its strategy entitled ‘What’s ya policy on that? Moving forward with confidence’.

Also receiving a $30,000 grant is the Northampton Old School Community Initiative for its Ku’arlu Mangga Good Nest Gallery Cultural Tourism Strategy and Succession Plan.

Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said this funding was a great investment in the Mid West and shows the government’s commitment to building capacity in the Aboriginal arts industry.

Yamaji Art manager Roni Kerley said the grant would allow them to review all current policies and procedures and community protocol processes.

“This support will ensure we remain compliant with industry standards and best practices within the National Aboriginal visual arts sector as we continue to build and support Aboriginal artists in the Mid West,” she said.

Meanwhile, local events have benefitted from up to $1.15m of funding shared across 65 events in WA.

The latest recipients in the Tourism Western Australia’s annual Regional Events Scheme include Geraldton’s Iwarra Wilungga — Spring by the Sea festival, Gascoyne Food Festival, Backroads Gravel — Fields of Gold in Nabawa, 2023 Denison Foreshore Sprint and Mid West Show N Shine, Re-Imagining Three Springs, GAMEX 2024 in Exmouth, Kickstarters Gascoyne Dash and Mullewa Muster and Rodeo.

Tourism Minister said regional events showcased our wonderful regions as well as stimulating economies and adding vibrancy to our communities.