The council has received funding from the Department of Industry through the Future Towns Project, and is seeking expressions of interest for collaborative projects of activation, and street art and murals.

The Vibrant Precincts Project aims to foster connections, which strengthen cultural identity and connection to place, to create a positive and prosperous community, and increase the economic success of Gunnedah.

The council’s arts and cultural officer, Lauren Mackley, said the council partnered with People, Place and Partnerships in May to consult with the community.

“Throughout our consultations with Gunnedah’s local businesses and community groups some wonderful ideas were put forward and this subsidy will enable opportunities to build strong partnerships within our community and see some of these ideas become a reality,” she said.

Ms Mackley said applications were welcome from individuals, artist collectives, groups, schools and community groups.

“We’re looking for people who have projects that will reflect Gunnedah’s culture, is really what we want to do,” she said.

“We don’t want to just throw paint on the wall. We want something that really does explain Gunnedah and capture Gunnedah for us.”

The council has allocated more than $10,000 has been allocated to two projects - the Community CBD Activation Project and the Street Art/Mural Project.

Under the Community CBD Activation Project, nine subsidies of $500 will be offered to community groups, arts and crafts groups, sporting groups and local businesses to collaborate and deliver projects within the CBD that will increase foot traffic and enable people to explore the CBD.

The council has allocated $6000 to the Street Art/ Murals Project for murals to be created at three proposed sites within the Gunnedah CBD, including the Gunnedah Cultural Precinct Building and the alleyway joining Conadilly Street and Little Conadilly Street. 

Application forms are available at the council office in Elgin Street, Gunnedah Visitor information Centre and online at www.infogunnedah.com.au

All applications must be submitted by email to council@infogunnedah.com.au by 5pm on July 31, 2017. All submissions will be considered and selected by a panel. Successful applicants will be notified on August 3.  All projects must be delivered and completed by August, 30.

For more information, contact Lauren Mackley on 67 402 100 or email council@infogunnedah.com.au