In the film ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’, the City of Broken Hill in western New South Wales was depicted in a whimsical light, remote from the fashions and trends of life in Sydney with all the stereotypes of an outback industrial town – old fashioned, good hearted and a bit rough around the edges.
In reality, Broken Hill has a rich community of talented artists and a strong cultural history dating back to its establishment. The Broken Hill Art Gallery, one of the earliest established in the outback, boasts an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture, and photographs. Broken Hill City Council actively encourages its vibrant arts community.
For its efforts, Council won a Commendation in the National Awards for Innovation in Local Government in the Arts and Cultural Development category. The Judges noted the significant contribution Council has made to the development of Cultural Tourism as an important component of the economic and cultural viability of the City of Broken Hill. The Award was won for the Living Desert and Heritage Art Trails which have given local artists the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing cultural development of the City.
The Living Desert Art Trail was opened in 1994. It has attracted over 3,800 visitors who have had the opportunity to walk the trail and discuss major works with the artists prior to them being housed permanently in the City Art Gallery.
The Heritage Trail was opened last December by the Mayor, Cr Peter Black. He described this as a major development of the City’s infrastructure, an example of the City’s ability to promote its cultural heritage and attract tourists.
For further information contact Gary Corbett, telephone (080) 889 252.
