The largest regional arts conference in Australia will be held in Mackay, Queensland from 14 to 17 September 2006. Some 750 delegates are expected to attend. The Pacific Edge is the title and theme of the 2006 Regional Arts Australia’s fifth National Conference.
It will build on the artistic and cultural connections between Australia and the Pacific region in Mackay. Mackay is home to the largest Australian South Sea Islander community in Australia with strong historical connections to the wider region. Part conference, part festival, the Pacific Edge will be a heady mix of outstanding Australian performing and visual arts, new ideas, real world experience and open dialogue among delegates from across Australia and throughout the world.
Featuring a wealth of local arts and cultural activities, it will provide debate and discussion on the current concerns of arts in regional communities, showcase and celebrate the achievements of artists involved in regional arts practice, and provide the opportunity to become immersed in the best of the arts from across Australia.
The program will bring together hundreds of people from the regional arts community nationwide and from around the globe. Valued at over $2 million to the region’s economy, the conference will provide benefits for local businesses including tourism accommodation, hospitality and retail outlets, restaurants, education groups, transport and bus companies, entertainment and other services.
The Pacific Edge is hosted by Queensland Arts Council on behalf of Regional Arts Australia and in partnership with Mackay City Council.
For further information contact Rebecca Atkinson, Conference Coordinator, on (07) 3004 7561 or visit www.qac.org.au
