Arts grants create opportunities to bring big ideas to life

Published on 03 December 2025

Nine Scenic Rim individuals and groups will share in a total of $52,000 in grant funding for a range of creative projects that will enrich the Scenic Rim community.

Endorsed at this week's Ordinary Meeting of Council, the Big Ideas Grants will be allocated through the Regional Development Arts Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Scenic Rim Regional Council.

Scenic Rim's Community, Arts and Culture Portfolio Councillor Kerri Cryer said the grants will provide funding for short-term, one-off projects offering professional arts, cultural and heritage opportunities for members of the creative community.

"Delivering a total value of more than $221,000, these projects represent an excellent return on investment for the community, Council and Arts Queensland," she said.
"These arts programs, and support of these artists in our region, are extremely worthwhile.

"Not only do they provide a way forward for our creatives, they also provide economic value to the Scenic Rim."

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) has an impressive track record of supporting local arts and cultural programs across Queensland communities.

“The Crisafulli Government’s multi-year RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Each year, RADF programs reach more than one million people across Queensland, securing local arts experiences and cultural tourism opportunities in regional areas, as well as supporting local artists in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“For 34 years, Arts Queensland has partnered with regional councils to co-invest in local arts initiatives that generate jobs, community engagement and help boost local economies. The Crisafulli Government will continue to support these vital collaborations.”

The successful applicants and their projects are as follows:

Scenic Rim singer/songwriter Lyric, for participation in Spilt Milk 2025, a national tour recognised for presenting the world’s leading artists to Australian audiences, placing the Scenic Rim on the national stage.
The 4275 Collective Inc 4275, Art for all the Community, offering low-cost workshops, including children's workshops, for the local community while employing local artists to share their knowledge and skills.
Kuweni Dias Mendis, for mentorships by two of Australia’s leading artists, both Queensland based and recognised nationally and internationally for their expertise in their respective fields.
Haystack Mountain Hermits, for The Southern Sky, the creation of Blood Harmony, the debut original album by this Scenic Rim family band.
Boonah Arts Society Inc, for The Boonah in Bloom Cafe Canvas Residency, with artists creating artworks - floral, landscape and still-life - in local businesses.
Estelle Synnott, for the recording and release of her debut EP, showcasing her work to a wider audience, strengthening her career and contributing to the visibility of local music.
GTM Music Studios, for the presentation of Youth on Show, a trio of exciting youth events at Davidson Park, Beaudesert.
Celia Broadhurst for the development of her Shaped by Waves, Forged in Fire explorative jewellery collection, combining naturally tumbled antique sea glass with sand-cast metals, and
Jen Robson for the development of a new body of artwork inspired by the Scenic Rim's natural environment, forming the foundation of a wholesale art and textile product range with a focus on endangered native plants to help raise environmental awareness.

"All of these projects illustrate the wealth of creativity within the Scenic Rim and are well worthy of support," Cr Cryer said.