Arts on the Sunshine Coast: Here's What The Sunshine Coast Councillor Candidates Think

All

25 Mar

Ahead of this weekend's election, we asked Noosa and Sunshine Coast Mayor and Councillor candidates for their thoughts on the arts, including their commitment to the Sunshine Coast Arts Plan, what policy actions they would support new funding for and other strategies to support the arts and creative sector.Questions were sent to all candidates, however we only have some responses, as we receive more we will update this document.

Mayor

Mark Jamieson Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?We are just getting the Arts Plan off the ground, so our priority will be funding that.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Given the COVID-19 impacts all elements of Council funding and what the community considers reasonable will need to be addressed. The Creative sector may be a big winner as people reset their life priorities.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?As the incumbent Mayor and a financial contributor to the arts myself, you can be confident of my continued support.

Division 1

Mark DavisI fully support the arts on the sunshine coast and will into the future.

Division 2

Shane Scriggins Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?In response, I wish to advise that my family and I have lived and worked in Caloundra for over 57 years collectively. We like many Caloundra residents are avid supporters of the arts. We are also history buffs and my particular passion is archeology.Which policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?As a standing candidate for Division 2, I have grave concerns for our local economy and small business. The $440M debt accumulated by Council in recent times concerns me, it concerns me a lot. Then there is the COVID-19 pandemic and how it will affect not just our community but the entire country. The consequences of COVID-19 and the economic down term is frightening and I believe that all grants and funding requests will have to be considered very carefully by the new Council.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?I think it would be prudent for me right now not to answer any questions regarding funding (from any community organisation) until such time as the new Council is sworn in and Councillors allowed to consider and reflect on: -

the National, State, Regional and Local economies;
Council's budget commitments for this financial year;
Interest payable on any outstanding loans;
COVID-19 pandemic; and
Planning for next financial years budget.

What other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?At the moment our financial future is uncertain. I believe that when deliberating its budget for the 2020/2021 financial period Council and Councillors will have to make some hard decisions.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?In closing, I once again reiterate that I support the arts and creative enterprise. I wish I could paint a better picture and commit to all funding requests that come into Council, but right now, it is not the time for making false promises. Brady Sullivan Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?With the quickly evolving social and economic situation surrounding COVID 19 we face a number of hardships and decisions in our community. What I value and will support will be actions that are financially and socially resposible to support the arts and the many valuable outcomes it provides us as individuals and as a community. I will support actions that showcase the value of the arts sector to the community, celebrate local artists and content and create dedicated spaces and networks for cultural and social development.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?The reason that I will not support an additional levy upon our ratepayers in the current period is due to the economic hardship our community are facing in these unprecedented times. We will need to sensibly address the financial stress facing our land and business owners in the face of this health pandemic. In future times I would be happy to explore further mechanisms through our rates or other means to financially boost support to the arts sector but in current times all areas will need to be prudently looked at to support our community.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?I am passionate about seeing our council deliver a gallery of regional significance in our community. I wholly support the endorsed plans for the Caloundra Precinct Activation Project that will deliver a community and creative hub to support our local community and enhance our region's cultural offerings to the broader community. In uncertain times, with the current health pandemic we have a fiduciary responsibility to make decisions that support the health, well-being and economic prosperity of our region. In light of the current situation commitments to any project funding are impossible without better understanding current situations and the evolution of the issues facing us. Terry LandsbergWill you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Promoting our indigenous art genres.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Involving businesses, our State Government and our Federal Government.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?My gift to the arts would be my ability to collaborate with others to make things happen.

Division 3

Stan NawrockiWill you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Need time to considerDo you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Redirect existing funds Pamela MarikozI hope to respond on your form before the elections; I am trying to keep up with everything at the moment. I just wanted you to know, that as an author myself, the Arts are or paramount importance and would be something I would have a position on - continuing arts funding and promotion. I hope to answer more fully in time.

Division 4

Mark WadesonI’m Standing for those that can’t stand up for themselves against council.Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?Yes.Art is important but so is human rights on the Coast. People like .... and .... were laughing at coronavirus how would they be like in Council if elected. They re-used their how to vote cards like .... after a coronavirus warning continued to do it also! They are now dumping them in letter box drops! ... is like a fairy princess no commonsense and winged for hours they couldn’t use the toilet at the booth and had to walk a few extra meters. How bad will they be if elected. They can’t talk to the poor they are beneath them! Imagine toilets being locked all night with nowhere to go, this happens to homeless. I couldn’t believe them winging for a few metres! Julian PorterWill you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?1.2.2 – Mentorships and Residencies – both with established local artists and artists from elsewhere.1.4.4 – Arts Incubator2.1.1 – Horizon should get a big boost in my opinion.2.1.2 – Regional Galleries – we need something in Division 4 immediately – can’t we grab a floor or two of city hall and bring people into the CBD for something other than business.2.1.5 – Calendar of Events – putting particular focus on holiday periods to complement our tourist offering and expose our creatives to broader audiences who are relaxed and receptive.5.5.2 – Affordable artist opportunities – need to minimise red-tape and regulation and encourage art outside of traditional spaces.4.2.2 – Artist in Residence programs

and 2 – First Nations arts organisation and strategy.

Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?YesWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?The beginnings of the Creative Spaces program seems really encouraging, and repurposed spaces can certainly have a lot more character and be a lot more fun than new ones. The money saved here can be spent on facilities which need to be purpose-built.Our climate can suit outdoor spaces and lightweight structures and we can probably tick a lot more boxes on the performance space list in the short-term if we don’t wait to build the Taj Mahal. I think of the temporary venues in the gardens at Adelaide Fringe and how well they work. I thought the Met and surrounds worked well at Horizon and perhaps we can build more short-term facilities in the CBD to make it more of a destination while there is nothing else there.But we really do have to get some ‘proper’ arts facilities befitting of a modern city – a theatre and gallery at minimum - into the CBD and we need to start budgeting for it. I would love to see it fast-tracked as I think the people of Division 4 need to see some benefit from the development, not just detriment, but I expect the new Council is going to find the cupboard fairly bare from the current big projects. Clearly we will need to partner with State and Federal government and take advantage of any COVID stimulus grants and possibly even the Olympics.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?I really love the notion of Art in non-traditional spaces as exemplified by the Anywhere Festival. I think Council can very easily up the Region’s arts ecology by taking an encouraging role with regard to initiatives in public and regulated spaces, not just helping with the red-tape, questioning the need for a lot of it.The amount of money Council spends on Horizon is ridiculously low when compared to some of the money handed over for sporting events and commercial musical performers. This is already an impressive event that draws significant attention, with a bit more money to play with it can be a real drawcard for the region, a showcase for our creatives and a place for them to interact with artists from further afield.I think the First Nations art organisation and strategy is really important to our region and our understanding of Australian history through art. I would like to see this feed into our tourism offering and enrich the experience of visitors as well. Todd ForrestWill you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?I would need further consultation on this area to make the best decision.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?YesWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Review of expensesAny other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?I think its a vital part of the community, however we need to look close @ expenses & wasted rate payers money Joe NatoliI am a big supporter of the arts and during my previous terms as a councillor and mayor have demonstrated commitment to this sector.

Division 5

Alison Barry-Jones I share a long history in initiating and driving many projects which support the arts. It remains a vital component of a community's identity and expression. I support the program for the delivery of arts for the region and am extremely disappointed that the current council have removed the performing Arts component from the Maroochydore Entertainment centre project. I believe both Joe Natoli and I will be your strongest allies for the arts in or out of Council. Clive Waring Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?There is a new group Sunshine Coast Arts foundation which is philanthropic in nature. There are actually new collaborations taking place to advance the arts through private benefactors and can then be supplemented with SCC grants. As editor of the Silvershotz arts magazine I have spent 19 years promoting artists in 47 countries which gives me unique insights into the challenges faced by artistsDo you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Negotiation with other Council members to support a yes Vote- we need six votes to get this approved. See my answer about Policy actions so you can view my extensive experience.With 19 years as editor of the Silvershotz magazine based in London I have interviewed and helped promote nearly 800 photography artists in 47 countries. The time is right if I am elected Councillor to collaborate with artist groups and provide a new vision, plan, cost, budget and execute those collective ideas. Hope this helps. View my profile on LinkedIn. Kiti Bruinsma I love the arts. The arts plays a vital role in the community, with the functions of giving character to a community, encouraging creativity and thought, generates positivity and fun and puts a spotlight on who we are as a community and how we can do better. Seriously, I can’t imagine a community that does not participate in and encourage the arts. It would be a dull and stagnant place. I am personally involved in the BATS drama group and have enjoyed bringing some culture and entertainment to people, challenging audiences, and also noted the development of my own confidence and social circle. Funding for arts projects is always a challenge and even more particularly during times of economic uncertainty as we are experiencing today. I am very much aware of the dramatic drop in financial support for the arts and artists as a result of the coronavirus uncertainty. As an elected councillor, I will vow to consider supporting any projects and funding mechanisms that I believe will benefit the arts and is affordable for the community. An arts levy is a good idea that I support very strongly in principle and am happy to discuss further when elected and when I have better understanding of the inner operations of council. One of my policy ideas is to help Sunshine Coast Council support and develop more arts events for the Division 5 area that I hope to be representing.

Division 6

Siobhan Gosper Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Encourage local art content and celebrate it, support local networks and spaces, support local businesses, sole traders and eventsDo you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Working with the community and ensuring that they have their input in the arts sector. Council offer a range of funding for all sorts of group, associations and clubs - including the arts. If elected in the new Council I want to have myself and other Councillors to fix debt have spend more sustainably. We need to allocate more funds for the arts as it is not receiving the support it needs from Federal or State governments. I will only support such a levy if the community does or if the advise of Council agrees with it for the best interest of a important sector of our economy and culture.

Division 7

Ted Hungerford Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Funding will depend on budget parametres at the time due to the uncertainty of COVD-19. All levels of government will most likely have to reduce expenditures so that we can maintain most of our current services and support our workforce who rely on us for income. These are unprecedented times.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Delivery of RAIF and any other program will depend on the financial realities that eventuate from this pandemic. Small and large business will also face challenging times. Council with business, together will have to work together in partnership to bring about the best outcomes for RAIF.What other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?We will need team work to ensure our Arts Sector survives this unprecedented event. Unemployment is becoming a huge threat across all sectors. Personally, my eldest daughter, who is a logistics producer in London has just had 2 major contracts cancelled. We need new strategies to support our artistic workers.

Division 8

Kathryn Hyman Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?"Coordinated policy actions I would support (but are not limited to) new funding for include: he provision of specialised buildings and similar infrastructure developments designed to create hubs together with improving existing facilities in libraries.

Increasing the number of council funded grants of Arts projects and groups.
Projects focussed on developing the business skills and entrepreneurship of participants in the local Arts community.
Recognition and promotion of local Indigenous cultural and artists. And
Programmes designed to showcase and celebrate the wide diversity of creative skills within the Sunshine Coast region to the State, Nation and the world."

Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?YesWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Implementation of the framework depends on the priority and commitment SCC accords it. I consider RAIF a high implementation priority

Funding will be crucial for the success of the Frameworks implementation.
Continued community engagement throughout the Frameworks life

"SCC spends considerable sums of ratepayer monies on the development of policies and frameworks across a number of activities. When a plan or framework for development is approved it needs to be followed and adapted over time with a commitment by council to follow through on the expectations it generates within the community.What other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?I would do my very best to ensure all Sunshine Coast Councillors recognise that and vote accordingly. Transparency in and honesty in dealing with ratepayers needs must prevail.Without close adoption of the Sunshine Coast Action Plan and RAIF nothing will change and existing facilities and infrastructure will remain inadequate."

Division 9

Daren Edwards Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?The four goals are interwoven so if I am addressing this properly I would suggest investment in the four goal areas appropriately or stages which reflect how to progress each area whcih will also assist in creating long term jobs and increased technology opportunities.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?YesWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?We have certainly promoted our beach areas and sports opportunities well, but there are a lot of young people who are more arts focused and they should have the same opportunities as the other areas the coast is renowned for. We have a rich talented arts community as well as our own local cultural groups. This is another opportunity for the coast to stand out and work with schools and SCU to educate the community and for investment especially by local philanthropists.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?Making sure the community is aware of the Arts Plan and the RAIF, as I am sure the bulk of the community may not be aware of them and the planned goals and opportunities. Angela DunbavanWill you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?There are too many to list here. I would support any community endorsed action that sees our arts community thrive.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?I did not answer Yes/No above given the current uncertainty within our community regarding COVID -19 and its impact. I am conscious there are many un-answered questions regarding Council finances at this time, that people are losing their jobs by the hour and many are uncertain as to how they will pay their household bills. I am not against the idea of an arts levy but I don't believe it would be responsible to commit at this time without fully assessing the needs of our community during this crisis.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?In a matter of days, I have watched the cancellation of every festival, concert and event across the country as COVID-19 spread forces governments and event organisers to protect their patrons and workers. This is having a major impact on our independent artists and performing arts industry with all income for the foreseeable future literally disappearing before their eyes.Division 9 is home to a significant population who work in the “gig- economy” – individual contractors and freelancers who do not get paid if their event is cancelled and who don’t have sick or holiday leave entitlements to fall back on.Our musicians, dancers, actors and many of those in the tourism trade have legitimate fears about their immediate future. These professionals contribute so much to our community and we have to look at ways to support them.I have been actively participating in industry forums and discussions to tackle the impact on the industry. We’re putting our creative minds to the task of reducing the impact on our community - everything from live streaming performances into people’s living rooms, seeking short term alternative employment opportunities and lobbying government to ensure our gig economy workers are not overlooked when government stimulus packages are introduced. Daniel Bryar Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Like Maker Spaces, I really like the idea of creating a dedicated collaboration space for the arts and artists, with a focus on developing new and upcoming development through council supported initiatives and eventsDo you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?The current budget for the Arts is disproportionately allocated however people despise new taxes and levies, and it would not be politically prudent to quarantine a set proportion of rates to the Arts, unless it is offset by a reduction in the general rate.As a politically active community member I am aware that a huge chunk of the current arts budget allocations are decided by a very small (and potentially biased) board/panel. In order to fund more of the initiatives, we need to be more equitable and sensible with funding decisions, and not focused on disproportionate allocations to 'headline' events that only support a small number of people and businesses. We can fully or partially fund a lot more initiatives if we distribute the money more evenly across the available projects, through a larger number of teams/channels.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?Given the COVID19 pandemic, the Creative Arts industry is in big trouble if left to the market to decide the outcome of artists. The Greens have called for a $500 million dollar injection to save an industry that employs 600,000 Australians and generates $100 billion in annual revenue. Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has called for an urgent, significant rescue package to make sure the arts industry and workers can get through the next 12 months. I would support any number of measured aimed at keeping our arts sector alive and ready to return to business once we are through this trying time. Maria Suarez Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Action 2 - 8Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?I'd support a levy if it can be clearly communicated how this funding is fairly spread across the community. Division 9 in particular feel as if they pay the same rates and levies as the wider Sunshine Coast yet receive little return in the way of services and infrastructure as the majority of projects are planned in and for the southern communities.More involvement from the community to assist with funding of strategies by encouraging businesses to see the benefits of financially supporting initiatives involved with the implementation of the Arts Plan.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?Integrate arts with other infrastructure projects to bring arts to residents and visitor's daily life and activities e.g. Tasmania's Three Capes Walk, where artists contributed to 'story seats' which involved functional sculptures and story telling.

Division 10

Courtney Claridge Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?I would like to see Council look more holistically at actions they are taking and how they can incorporate local artists into already existing plans (eg.streetscapes). I think the policy within the Sunshine Coast Arts Plan directly reflects the direction Nambour is taking, so again supporting the implementation of all goals into Nambour's existing Activation Plan.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?The main policy for my campaign is to support community groups and organisations because I understand the massive impact they have on the communities health, wellbeing and identity. I appreciate that the arts play a passive part in not just the lives of people in our community, but our communities identity as a whole and I look forward to working towards implementation of the framework once elected. The main policy for my campaign is to support community groups and organisations because I understand the massive impact they have on the communities health, wellbeing and identity. I appreciate that the arts play a passive part in not just the lives of people in our community, but our communities identity as a whole and I look forward to working towards implementation of the framework once elected. Matthew Filippi Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Development of local artists and opportunities for participation.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?NoWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Grass roots events and ways to showcase talents such as using the vacant shop windows in Nambour to display art. Sue Etheridge Will you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Like Maker-Spaces, I really like the idea of creating a dedicated collaboration space for the arts and artists, with a focus on developing new and upcoming development through council supported initiatives and events.Do you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?YesWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?The current budget for the Arts is disproportionately allocated, however people despise new taxes and levies (although I personally support the 'idea' of an Arts Levy) , and it would not be politically prudent to quarantine a set proportion of rates to the Arts, unless it is offset by a reduction in the general rate.As a politically active community member, I am aware that a huge chunk of the budget allocations are decided by a very small and potentially biased board/panel. In order to fund more of the initiatives, we need to be more equitable and sensible with funding decisions, and not focused on disproportionate allocations to 'headline' events that only support a small number of people and businesses. We can fully or partially fund a lot more initiatives if we distribute the money more evenly across the available projects.Any other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?Given the COVID-19 pandemic, the Creative Arts industry is in big trouble if left to the market to decide the outcome of artists. The Greens have called for a $500 million dollar injection to save an industry that employs 600,000 Australians and generates $100 billion in annual revenue. Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has called for an urgent, significant rescue package to make sure the arts industry and workers can get through the next 12 months. Keith CampbellWill you commit to implementation of this plan and related budget bids to support related initiatives?YesWhich policy ‘actions’ would you support new funding for?Upskilling and workshop programmes to develop local artists - providing suitable, functional exhibition venues across the SC (and funding assistance for emerging artists holding exhibitions) - supporting inclusive and accessible participation for both artists and their audiencesDo you support the idea of a new ‘arts levy’ on ratepayers to fund the future delivery of arts infrastructure?YesWhat other suggestions would you have for ensuring the implementation of this framework?Meaningful funding + adequate access to public venues + strong promotionAny other comments about key actions and strategies you would lead or commit to regarding support for the arts and creative sector in the region?Promoting arts diversity and facilitating access to audiences (new and existing)