The draft Cultural Plan has been developed by the Heritage, Arts and Culture Priorities Advisory Group (HACPAG), with support from Arts Mid North Coast and looks at the strategies for cultural development within the Port Macquarie-Hastings region over the 2016 - 2019 periods.

It sets the direction for putting culture at the heart of our community, and will provide council with the foundation to assist in supporting a viable and sustainable cultural industry and identify key grant and partnership opportunities, said council director Tricia Bulic.

“We are extremely lucky to live in an area that offers such cultural diversity, and council is committed to ensuring arts, heritage and culture play a strong role in the development of our region’s future,” the director said.

“We have seen many wonderful recent examples of successful cultural events across our region including the Heritage Festival, Portraits of Memory Exhibition, Artwalk, Creative Ageing Festival, and Youth Week. The Glasshouse has also presented an impressive array of cultural experiences for people of all ages to enjoy.”

Developed over a two year period under the direction of HACPAG and Arts Mid North Coast, over 1200 community members, stakeholders and industry participants have contributed to the draft plans development through a series of workshops, one on one meetings, surveys and events.

“Having an inclusive cultural plan will assist in opening up opportunities when competing for grants, and in showcasing our talents through cultural tourism,” said Ms Bulic.

“Council strongly encourages the community to ‘have your say’ and be involved in helping shape our region’s cultural future.”

The draft Cultural Plan is on public exhibition until Thursday July 14, and can be viewed at pmhclistening.com.au/culturalplan2016 or through Council Customer Service Centres and Libraries in Laurieton, Wauchope and Port Macquarie.