170630 Media Release Goldfields- final Board
Media Release
The possible closure of the Goldfields Arts Centre in Kalgoorlie highlights the risk to arts and culture experiences for the bush.
“We, like so many in the arts community, were relieved to see the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder negotiated a three-month extension of the current lease arrangement which would have ended this week,” Circuitwest Director Ryan Taaffe said.
“However, it does beg the question, how did it come to this for a venue that has spent two decades as the only multi-functional arts venue in the Goldfields and is one of only three A Class Art Galleries in regional Western Australia?”
There are a number of booked touring shows that may now be cancelled because of uncertainty about the future of the venue. The regional touring circuit in WA could be very negatively impacted because shows that lose a Kalgoorlie booking may not stop at towns in that part of the state.
“Arts and culture venues are as crucial a part of a region’s infrastructure as its sport and recreation facilities.” Mr Taaffe said. “You wouldn’t close the city’s swimming pool or the library because they are not profitable because they for part of the fabric of a society. This is also true of its arts facilities.”
Mr Taaffe said it was not uncommon in many Local Government Authorities for the City to be responsible for the local arts venue.
“Whatever the funding arrangements for the future, it is essential that the Goldfields retains a significant arts venue and that it has an effective management model that guarantees its future.”
“There would be great benefit in ensuring the venue is integrated across the council’s portfolios to provide the best outcome for the people of the region who deserve to enjoy arts experiences.”
“The Goldfields has such a proud history of arts and culture experiences for its residents and they have every reason to expect as much going forward.”
ENDS
Please contact Sam Lynch Circuitwest for more information (pm@circuitwest.com.au 0419971713).
CircuitWest exists to build an effective and inclusive network that connects members and stakeholders involved in the business of performing arts presenting.