Applications are now open for organisations to apply for funding for significant art or cultural projects in Rodney.
The projects will be funded through Auckland Regional Services Trust (ARST) funding.
This funding has been held in trust by Rodney District Council since the Auckland Regional Services Trust was disbanded in 1998. The funds were invested by Rodney District Council and each year the Council calls for applications to fund projects from the income earned from this investment.
The fund is specifically designated to be used to support significant art or cultural projects in Rodney. Applications are being sought for projects with a budget of over $5,000.
Earlier this year ARST funding was used to fund Rock Camp Rodney – an innovative musical training programme for young people aged between 8 and 18 years. The camp culminated in the musicians demonstrating their skills through a series of live shows at various locations throughout Rodney.
ARST funding has previously funded a wide variety of other projects such as the refurbishment of the Estuary Arts Centre and to support performance art events.
“Auckland Regional Services Trust funding has been used to support some fantastic local projects, such as Rock Camp Rodney,” says Paul Green, the Council’s Community Development Manager.
“This year we are looking forward to receiving applications for some exciting creative projects which will benefit our community,” he says.
Mr Green adds that the Council is very pleased to be able to support arts projects without this having any impact on rates.
Applications for funding close on Thursday 22 October 2009 with all applicants notified of the outcome during December. More information about funding criteria and how to make an application is available online at www.rodney.govt.nz.