About ANW
Arts North West facilitates the development of arts and cultural projects and initiatives across the New England North West of New South Wales.
Arts North West
Our Vision is for a rich, diverse cultural landscape.
Our Mission is to expand creative opportunities in our region.
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Arts North West facilitates the development of arts and cultural projects and initiatives across the whole region, building a rich cultural landscape in the New England North West and increasing participation in arts and cultural activities. We build cultural community capacity through advice and advocacy, professional development provision and forging key partnerships and networks throughout the region. Our core business is providing quality advice, information and professional support to artists and organisations. Arts North West is committed to the development and delivery of services that foster opportunities for development, collaboration, facilitation and experiences in the arts, that support and respond to our diverse creative and cultural ecology.
Arts North West is a lead organisation of arts and cultural development across the New England North West. In 2021, Arts North West celebrated 25 years of service delivery. Arts North West facilitates the development of arts and cultural projects and initiatives across the New England North West of New South Wales. We have a service area of over 93,000 km2 and population of over 183,000 people. ANW has been true to its core purpose of regional arts development while also being responsive and agile through the myriad of changes and hardships faced both globally and locally. ANW is proud of our strong community engagement and has established a robust reputation locally, as the peak advisory body for arts in the region.
The arts have the power to connect people beyond geographic, social and cultural borders and play a pivotal role in education, health, wellbeing, identity and inclusion in regional areas. Creating partnerships is central to our service provision. We work with other organisations both in and outside the sector, leveraging strategic partnerships to strengthen our creative landscape, and diversifying income for our regional economies. The arts is intrinsic to an engaged, responsive, and resilient society.
REGION
Arts North West recognises the support of Create NSW and the following local government bodies in the New England North West
The Mehi, Gwydir, Barwon and Macintyre Rivers flow through the Shire of Moree Plains and the bore water of the Great Artesian Basin is a major tourist attraction. Moree is the Shire’s largest centre and villages include Ashley, Biniguy, Boggabilla, Boomi, Bullarah, Garah, Gurley, Mungindi, Pallamallawa, Terry Hie Hie and Weemelah
Armidale Regional Council is in the New England region of NSW extending primarily eastward from the city through farming districts to the gorges and escarpments that mark the edge of the Northern Tablelands. In addition to the university city of Armidale and the town of Guyra, the villages include Ben Lomond, Black Mountain, Dangarsleigh, Ebor, Hillgrove, Kellys Plains, Llangothlin, and Wollomombi.
Glen Innes Severn Council covers an area of 5,487 sq. km, and is located in the beautiful New England area of NSW, servicing the town of Glen Innes and villages of Deepwater, Emmaville, Glencoe and Red Range.
Tenterfield Shire straddles the Queensland/NSW border in the north and is across the range from the northern rivers in the east. In addition to the town of Tenterfield, the Shire is also home to the villages of Urbenville, Drake, Jennings, Legume, Liston, Torrington and Mingoola.
Walcha is located half way between Sydney and Brisbane on the crossroads of the Oxley Highway and Thunderbolts Way. Arriving via Thunderbolts Way through Gloucester from Sydney is only 410km and 496km via Tamworth on the New England Highway.
Gwydir Shire Council incorporates an area of 9,122 sq. km, extending from the Nandewar Range in the south and close to the NSW-Queensland border in the north. The Shire has two small towns Bingara and Warialda, as well as the rural villages of North Star, Croppa Creek, Coolatai, Gravesend and Upper Horton.
Gunnedah Shire is surrounded by the expansive Liverpool Plains and framed by the Nandewar Ranges. Gunnedah is a commodity hub and major destination on the intersection of the Kamilaroi Highway Touring Route and Oxley Highway. It includes the town of Gunnedah and surrounding villages of Curlewis, Breeza, Carroll, Mullaley, Emerald Hill, Tambar Springs and Kelvin.
Narrabri Shire is located in the north-west of NSW, in the Namoi Valley. Covering an area of approximately 13,000 sq. km, the Shire includes the key towns of Narrabri, Boggabri and Wee Waa and the villages of Baan Baa, Bellata, Edgeroi, Gwabegar and Pilliga.
The Liverpool Plains is a diverse and resourceful region spanning just over 5,000 sq. km. The population centres of Quirindi and Werris Creek are located at the heart of the Shire and are supported by several smaller villages and hamlets including Blackville, Caroona, Currabubula, Pine Ridge, Premer, Spring Ridge, Wallabadah and Willow Tree.
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Tamworth Regional Council is one of the biggest councils in inland NSW, with a prosperous economy based on building, retail, industry, hospitality and agriculture. The area includes the city of Tamworth and the towns and villages of Attunga, Barraba, Bendemeer, Dungowan, Duri, Kootingal, Limbri, Manilla, Moonbi, Niangala, Nundle, Ogunbil, Somerton, Upper Manilla and Woolbrook.
Uralla Shire is a medium sized NSW rural Council with an area of 3,215 sq. km. The main township is Uralla which is 22km south of Armidale and 89km north of Tamworth.
Objectives
Connections
Forge strong partnerships and networks across the region.
Creativity
Develop and broaden diverse audiences and their participation in arts and cultural activities.
Communities
Grow and support community cultural capacity.
Governance
Ensure a sustainable organisation through sound leadership and accountability.
Statements
Cultural Inclusion Statement
Arts North West is committed to fostering a culturally inclusive environment that celebrates the rich diversity of the New England North West region.
Our approach to cultural inclusion is grounded in respect, equity, and accessibility.
ANW is dedicated to ensuring that there is safe and nurturing spaces for culture to be practiced, shared and celebrated. This not only contributes to the diversity of the arts in the region but also fosters a deeper connection between communities.
At ANW, cultural inclusion is not just a goal but a guiding principle that shapes everything we do. We are dedicated to building a future where all voices are heard, all stories are told, and everyone has the opportunity to participate in the rich cultural life of our region.
Together, we can create a more inclusive, vibrant, and culturally rich New England North West.
Disability, Inclusion, and Access Statement
Arts North West is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible cultural landscape in the New England North West region.
As an organisation, ANW firmly believes that the arts should be accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, and we strive to create an environment where all individuals can engage, participate, and thrive within the arts. Through our ongoing efforts, ANW aims to lead by example, demonstrating that the arts are a pivotal to creating inclusive cultural ecology.
ANW is dedicated to creating an arts environment where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to participate and succeed. The organisation will continue to lead by example, championing the rights of people with disabilities and ensuring that the arts remain a space for all.
Environmental Impact Statement
As an organisation deeply rooted in the New England North West region, Arts North West (ANW) is committed to minimising its environmental footprint while promoting sustainable creative practices.
Recognising the critical intersection between environmental stewardship and cultural development, ANW integrates environmentally conscious strategies across all its operations, programs, and projects. When delivering arts and cultural programs, ANW is mindful of its environmental responsibilities.
ANW recognises the connection between environmental health and cultural vitality, reinforcing the idea that protecting the environment is integral to preserving cultural heritage.
ANW is committed to continuous improvement in environmental practices, recognising that the health of the environment is essential to the cultural and economic wellbeing of the communities we serve.
Through our ongoing efforts, ANW aims to lead by example, demonstrating that the arts can be a powerful force for environmental stewardship.
team
Growing up in Manilla, Lauren has worked and lived throughout the New England North West region and joins the Arts North West team from Gunnedah, where she previously worked as the Cultural Precinct Team Leader and Arts and Cultural Officer for Gunnedah Shire Council.Lauren has a Degree in Contemporary Arts and Education (Secondary) and is currently enrolled in a Graduate Certificate of Urban and Regional Planning at UNE.Lauren has been nominated for the NSW Premier’s Youth Award for her dedication to the arts and is the recipient of the Leo Kelly Local Government Arts Awards for her innovative consultation with First Nations communities. Many of her projects and collaborations have won national and regional recognition for their contribution to the arts sector, tourism and economic benefits to regional communities.In a previous life, Lauren painted, created artist books, assemblage installations and participated in performance arts; embracing any arts practice to enrich wellbeing and contribute to collective creativity.Lauren has also been a valuable member of the Arts North West Board for over 5 years.
Leah is an experienced arts administrator and governance professional, currently serving as Administration Officer at Arts North West, where she plays a vital role in supporting the delivery of arts and cultural programs across the New England North West region of New South Wales. With a background spanning regional and metropolitan Australia, Leah brings a broad perspective and a strong understanding of community contexts to her work.Now based in Glen Innes on a rural property, she maintains a deep connection to place, which informs her commitment to supporting vibrant and sustainable regional arts communities. At Arts North West, Leah underpins the organisation’s operations through her expertise in financial management, governance, compliance, and organisational systems. She is responsible for maintaining robust administrative processes, including financial oversight, reporting, and data management. Her work ensures that programs are delivered with accountability, transparency, and alignment to funding requirements. Leah has developed and strengthened systems for data collection, analysis, and reporting, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement across the organisation. She also supports risk management, policy development, and governance processes, enabling Arts North West to deliver complex, multi-partner initiatives with efficiency and integrity. In addition to her operational strengths, Leah brings a thoughtful and community-focused approach to her role. She is passionate about the role of the arts in supporting wellbeing, connection, and resilience in regional communities, and contributes to creating an environment where artists and organisations can thrive. Inspired by her rural surroundings, Leah maintains an ongoing interest in creative practice, balancing analytical expertise with a genuine appreciation for the arts. Through her work, she plays an integral role in strengthening the capacity and sustainability of the regional arts sector.
Hester Fraser AKA Goldheist, is an Australian artist whose music is a rich blend of storytelling and classical influences, deeply rooted in the Australian landscape, drawing listeners into vivid narratives of Australian life from the bush and beyond.Hester has earned accolades in songwriting competitions, affirming her skill as a lyricist, performer and composer. Her albums REALM and EYES OF LOVE showcase her musical journey, devolving from electronic to acoustic sounds, and addressing themes of love, loss, and the beauty of imperfection.Beyond entertainment, Hester uses her platform for social causes such as drought relief and support for people seeking asylum, demonstrating her commitment to community and social justice. Her innovative performances, including collaborations with visual artists and the integration of Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN) for VIVID Festival highlight her dedication to making art accessible and impactful across diverse communities.
Robert Hartigan is an emerging music composer with interests spanning film, games, and commercial projects. He completed his Bachelor in Music Composition and Production in May 2024 after building a solid foundation in music through lessons at both the Tamworth and Sydney Conservatorium of Music. This educational background has provided him with a broad understanding of music theory and production, enabling him to compose scores that connect with a variety of audiences.Furthermore, Rob's degree also explored arts business and management. He also studied multimedia creation—including film, video game development, and art installations—equipping him with a holistic view of the creative industries. As a Gamilaroi man, he brings a unique cultural perspective to his work, with connections to his local community and a drive to authentically share First Nations culture, history, and stories. Through his academic and personal endeavours, Rob is dedicated to creating spaces and platforms that promote indigenous voices and narratives, showcasing the richness of First Nations heritage.Rob’s technical skills include proficiency with digital audio workstations and notation software, alongside an understanding of orchestration and sound design. His versatility in adapting to different musical styles, combined with an appreciation for the emotive power of music, positions him as a promising talent. As he looks to the future, Rob is eager to contribute to creative projects that benefit from his unique musical perspective and cultural insights.
Dzintra brings a wealth of experience in regional arts engagement, communications, marketing, graphic design, community programming, and project delivery. She has worked extensively with museums, galleries, festivals, artists, schools, and community organisations, most recently as Public Programs Coordinator with Moveable Type Studio. Her background in creative communications, stakeholder engagement, photography, digital content creation, and community arts development makes her a fantastic addition to our team.Dzintra works across our programs, projects, communications, and regional engagement activities, helping strengthen connections with artists, communities, cultural organisations, and local government partners throughout the New England North West.
Local Government Partners
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