Following months of community consultation, Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) will be placing its Cultural Plan on public exhibition, from Monday 18 May, 2020. The plan outlines a five-year framework, highlighting key projects and initiatives to help support the growth of our economic development and destination ambitions.
DRC’s Cultural Development Coordinator Jessica Moore says that she received several bright ideas during the initial consultation phase, and now it’s time for the community to have their say on those results.
“The Cultural Plan is based on six key values for cultural growth and recognition. These values are: Discovery, Growth, Immersion, Distinction, Accessibility and Communal. These are the cultural values we hold not only now, but what we want our region to be known for,” Ms Moore said.
The document, titled ‘SPARC’ for Shaping Plans to Advance Regional Culture, shines a light on how Council can commit to policy-making based on a solid foundation, development with, and responding to community and stakeholder feedback, with transparent processes for reporting, monitoring and review.
“SPARC also has plans to allow improvements to current programs and support the development of future programs and services in response to community needs. The plan will champion the role that culture plays in region-building, activating, celebrating and promoting the uniqueness of our community,” Ms Moore said.
During the consultation to develop the plan, some feedback DRC received includes a desire to bring light to all the amazing small, creative and cultural not-for-profit groups that make Dubbo such an interesting place. It was also highlighted that the region has important Indigenous communities with artistic, cultural and political presence and creativity.
“It was noted that engagement for a strong Indigenous art and cultural presence is a move for a stronger future for all. So we’ve addressed this in the plan,” she said.
The plan is part of the 2040 Community Strategic Plan (CSP), and addresses many of the key areas of growth highlighted in the CSP. It aims to make our region a lively and welcoming place to participate in arts and culture, and an established centre for the emerging and professional creative sector.
The community is invited to view the Cultural Plan and provide feedback, when it goes on public exhibition for no less than 28 days from Monday 18 May. To view the plan, visit Council’s website.
Source: DRC