Lauren Mackley

Executive Director
rado@artsnw.com.au or 0493 316 463

Growing up in Manilla, Lauren has lived and worked extensively across the New England North West region and is now based in Tamworth. Lauren brings extensive expertise in project management, stakeholder engagement, and community consultation, with a strong track record of working collaboratively across local government, arts organisations, and diverse communities to deliver impactful cultural outcomes. Her work includes supporting artists and organisations through funding, strategic planning, and capacity building across the region.

Lauren holds a degree in Contemporary Arts and Secondary Education, and is currently studying a Masters of Museums and Collections at Deakin University. Prior to her current role, Lauren worked with Gunnedah Shire Council as Cultural Precinct Team Leader and Arts and Cultural Officer, and has a deep understanding of regional arts practice, governance, and community-led development. Lauren has also been a valued member of the Arts North West Board for over five years, bringing both governance experience and a long-standing commitment to the cultural life of the region..

She has been nominated for the NSW Premier’s Youth Award in recognition of her dedication to the arts and is a recipient of the Leo Kelly Local Government Arts Award for her innovative consultation with First Nations communities. Many of her projects and collaborations have received national and regional recognition for their contribution to the arts sector, as well as for strengthening tourism and delivering economic benefits to regional communities.

In her earlier creative practice, Lauren worked across painting, artist books, assemblage installations, and performance art—embracing diverse forms to foster wellbeing and contribute to collective creativity.

Leah fontyn

Administration Officer
office@artsnw.com.au

Leah Fontyn grew up in country NSW and has spent much of her life living and travelling across both regional and metropolitan Australia. She is now based in Glen Innes, where she lives on a rural property and balances family life with a strong commitment to meaningful, community-focused work.

Leah is a key member of the Arts North West team, bringing extensive expertise in financial controls, data management, governance, and compliance. Her work underpins the organisation’s capacity to deliver complex initiatives with rigour, accountability, and alignment to funding and reporting requirements.

She has designed and implemented robust systems for data collection, analysis, and reporting, ensuring that insights are effectively applied to inform programming and strategic decision-making.

Leah plays a critical role in strengthening Arts North West’s internal processes, contributing to risk management, policy development, reporting, and organisational accountability. Her expertise ensures that major initiatives are methodologically robust, evidence-based, and compliant.

Alongside her technical strengths, Leah brings a strong commitment to the development of arts and wellbeing initiatives within local communities. She draws ongoing inspiration from the natural environment and maintains an active interest in creative practice, grounding her work in both analytical rigour and a deep connection to place.

Hester Fraser

Arts North West On Tour Officer
ontour@artsnw.com.au

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

Aboriginal Arts Officer

admin@artsnw.com.au or 0492 942 860

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.