Photo caption: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton met with Barbara Moritz from the Lightning Ridge Historical Society to find out how the CHART grant will help promote the Heritage Walk at Lightning Ridge.

The Coalition Government continues to deliver record support to the creative and cultural sector, with three projects in the Parkes electorate sharing in close to $9,000 under the Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) program.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton congratulated Gilgandra Shire Council, Connective Indigenous Corporation and the Lightning Ridge Historical Society on receiving grants from the $3 million CHART program, which will assist these organisations to re-emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Offering appealing cultural tourism experiences in our regional communities is more important than ever following two years of disruption, which is why the Australian Government continues to lend a helping hand in the recovery of community-run arts and cultural organisations,” Mr Coulton said.

“I’m pleased to announce that Gilgandra Shire Council has received $3,000 to protect the NSW State Heritage-listed Corduroy Road Ruins archaeological site by constructing a fence around the perimeter to ensure the site is not disturbed by surrounding land use.

“Connective Indigenous Corporation in Dubbo has also been awarded $3,000 to upgrade its multimedia equipment so that the organisation can continue to record stories of Aboriginal people through photography and video to keep country and culture alive.

“Meanwhile, the Lightning Ridge Historical Society will benefit from a $2,980 grant to upgrade its office equipment to improve its promotion of the Heritage Walk at Lightning Ridge.

“Each of these projects will enhance local culture and heritage, adding to the tourism opportunities these communities have to offer.

“I encourage other arts, cultural and heritage organisations in the Parkes electorate to apply for a CHART program grant today, which will support the rebuilding of local economies and preserve Australia’s cultural heritage in regional areas.”

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said these grants will support activities that encourage cultural tourism in regional, rural and remote Australia.

“The CHART program promotes participation in, and access to, Australia’s arts and culture through developing and supporting cultural expression and sharing stories of community and historical significance,” Minister Fletcher said.

“We’re pleased to have delivered more than $500,000 for 178 projects across the country, supporting the reactivation and ongoing sustainability of these successful applicants, each playing an integral role in telling the stories of their local communities and preserving Australia’s cultural heritage.”

The CHART program is administered by the Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) on behalf of the Government. Applications are open until 29 April 2022, or until funding is allocated, whichever comes first.