The Victorian Government is backing arts and culture in regional Victoria – with new grants to support more live performances and creative workshops in local venues.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks has announced 13 community groups and not-for-profit organisations are being supported through the latest round of the Small Regional Presenters Program.
“Victoria’s creative spirit thrives in every part of our state, and programs like Small Regional Presenters ensure that regional communities have access to high-quality performances and experiences close to home,” said Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks.
“These grants empower local presenters to bring music, theatre, and cultural events to life, strengthening community connections and celebrating the diversity of our creative talent.”
The program helps to attract high quality artists to regional venues while building local skills and growing creative talent.
The grants will support recipients such as St Arnaud Arts Council which will present a three-day residency with actor and comedian Damian Callinan – gathering local stories and culminating in an evening of storytelling with a performance by the St Arnaud Citizens Band.
First-time grant recipient, Eildon Events, will bring the musical comedy duo David Cosma and Charles Jenkins to the region for a workshop with local residents that will lead to the creation of a unique song for the town.
King Valley Arts will stage three live performances and hands-on creative workshops in the lead up to the annual King Valley Arts Show in November, while popular music festival CresFest in Creswick will expand its offering year- round by presenting three events across 2026 in partnership with local community groups.
Indigo Shire Council will present a creative program for primary aged children at locations in the shire’s most geographically isolated areas, and Across The Arts Yarrawonga-Mulwala will expand its repertoire of shows throughout the community.
Moorabool Shire Council will host music and literature events across Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Blackwood that will pair local artists and visiting talent.
The Small Regional Presenters program is a Victorian Government initiative delivered by Regional Arts Victoria.
Beyond presenting shows and events, three supported projects in South Gippsland, Nathalia and Blackwood will work with RAV partner Songlines Aboriginal Music Cooperation to strengthen engagement and programming for local First Peoples communities.
For more information about the Small Regional Presenters Program and to see the full list of the latest recipients, visit: www.creative.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Casting off by A Good Catch Circus at Strzelecki Hall, 2024 – photo by Karli Duckett (courtesy of Regional Arts Victoria)