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Arts + Culture Update
November 2025
Griffith l Leeton l Murrumbidgee l Narrandera
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Murrumbidgee Short Story Competition 2025 Winners
Western Riverina Arts extends warm congratulations to the winners of the Murrumbidgee Short Story Competition 2025, announced at the Narrandera Arts and Community Centre. The event was a resounding success, drawing a wonderful turnout from across the region to celebrate creativity, storytelling, and community spirit.
This year’s entries reflected a rich diversity of voices and styles, showcasing the incredible literary talent found throughout the Western Riverina.
Categories and Winners
Open Category
Winner: Andrew Alchin for his story “Once in a Once Out”
Runner-up: Cai Holroyd for his story “The Crushing Inevitability of 4”
Highly Commended: Cai Holroyd for his story “Housekeeping"
Under 18s
Winner: Daniel Bridge for his story “Inching Apart”
Runner-up: Maddison Weir for her story “Where the Light Falls”
Highly Commended: Daniel Bridge for his story “Bubble Popping”
Highly Commended: Mackenzie Lee for her story “Sydney New Year’s Eve”
Under 12s
Winner: Odette McGuinness for her story “The Kangaroo Friends”
Western Riverina Arts congratulates all the winners and entrants for sharing their fantastic stories and looks forward to the 2026 competition.
Image courtesy of Western Riverina Arts.
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Winhanganha-yahni - We Remember
‘Winhanganha-yanhi – We Remember’ Exhibition at Narrandera Arts Centre, Tuesday 11th November 2025 – Sunday 7th December 2025.
Indigenous war veterans, even after many years in the public eye, still have not been fully and rightfully honoured across the nation. A new exhibition, Winhanganha-yahni – We Remember, brings awareness to Indigenous veterans in the Western Riverina through artistic expression, depth and significance.
The opening on Remembrance Day at 11am, begun with a ceremony in the Bolton Room at the Narrandera Ex-Servicemen’s Club, commemorating all veterans with Welcome to Country and a didgeridoo performance by Micheal Lyons Snr followed by a reading from Bernard Higgins.
Following on from the Ex-servicemen's club ceremony, the group formed a procession down to the Narrandera Arts and Community Centre for the exhibition opening with Catering provided by Micheal Lyons with a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country from Neville Bamblett.
The event was well received with a strong feeling of reflection, respect and conversation. The event could be described as a great coming together of everyone to remember and pay respect to all servicemen who fought side by side, regardless of who they were and where they came from.
The project is a collaboration between Wiradjuri artists Leila Constable and Bernard Higgins. A major three-panel visual artwork by Leila expresses the national story of Indigenous veterans fighting to protect unceded sacred lands and their enormous contributions during the World Wars.
Bernard Higgins has captured this story through a series of projected and animated poems that express the contrariety, rejection and disloyalty of a nation against its own people who were sent to combat in other countries.
The poems also explore the return from war to a life of suffering, incarceration and land loss, as well as fortitude and unending love of Country.
Image Courtesy - Jay Korhonen - Left - Leila Constable, Right - Bernard Higgins
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Plaque Unveiled Honouring the Life and Legacy of Local Artist
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following article contains names of people who have died.
On the 15th of September, a plaque was unveiled by the Charles family, together with Griffith City Council Mayor Doug Curran, commemorating the life and achievements of the late Veronica Collins (1962–2022).
It was a historic occasion, immortalising Ms Collins’ esteemed place within the Griffith community and recognising the lasting impact of her work nationally.
Ms Collins was a driving force in the cultural art scene. She was a co-exhibitor with renowned artists Sally Morgan and Bronwyn Bancroft in a touring exhibition that travelled throughout New South Wales.
In 2007, she presented a solo exhibition titled “Our Miah Clarkus”, which she described as one of the highlights of her career.
Collins’ unique voice for change continued throughout her life. In later years, she travelled to Canberra to the Tent Embassy, and even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she led a group of Griffith and greater Riverina locals in a major cultural repatriation project that returned a rare bark painting of a creation figure to its home on Groote Eylandt, Anindilyakwa Country.
The plaque is located outside the Griffith Regional Theatre, alongside the large mural artwork Charcoal Reign. It stands as both a symbol of recognition for Veronica Collins’ remarkable achievements and a lasting tribute to her generous spirit of cultural knowledge sharing.
The unveiling also coincided with the opening of the exhibition Reflection, a retrospective look at Ms Collin’s artistic journey through the years which was on display at the Griffith Regional Theatre from 15 September to 3 October 2025.
Image courtesy of the Charles family, Photographer: Ginette Guidolin, Left to Right - Michael Charles, Rebecca Charles, Wayne Charles.
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WRA Christmas Party and Networking Event
Friday 5th December 6:30pm
What a year it has been with WRA and the region in full swing with events galore and so many opportunities to help and connect all of our local artists and creatives.
Join us to celebrate the year and connect with creatives from across our wonderful region.
This year’s event will be held at Sandhills Artefacts Gallery with Micheal Lyons for a night of celebration and connection.
Keep an eye out for the offical invitation invites coming toi your inbox soon!
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Beginners Stained Glass Workshop at Mon Repos
A beginners stained glass workshop will be held at Mon Repos in Narrandera, offering participants the chance to learn the fundamental techniques of stained glass creation. The class will cover cutting and grinding glass, and using the copper foil method to produce a decorative sun catcher from coloured and clear glass.
Lunch is included in the workshop cost, with participants encouraged to advise of any dietary requirements.
Tickets are currently available at half the full class fee, with the remaining balance due by the day of the workshop. Invoices with payment details will be provided, or payments can be made in store via cash or EFTPOS on the day.
Next Session: Sat, 13 Dec, 10am - 4pm
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Create and connect with Narrandera arts 2025.
Grab your paints, stitching, mosaic, tools or whatever you are working on and join other creatives at our railway workshop for a day of Art, Conversation, Laughter and Sharing.
Tea and coffee are available, but you're welcome to bring some delightful treats to share.
$5 per session.
No commitment, just good company and fun.
If you have any questions, please call Julie on 0427 985 297
Upcoming dates can be viewed via the What's on Narrandera Shire Council Website
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Leeton ICIP Workshops
Join Create NSW to discuss Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) at our Leeton Gathering event.
Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) includes all aspects of cultural practices, traditional knowledge, resources and knowledge systems developed by Indigenous people as part of their Indigenous identity.
Create NSW First Nations team is travelling around NSW to meet with First Nations artistic & cultural communities about what ICIP means for you.
First Nations community members and allies are invited to join us for a briefing on what is happening in this space locally and federally, as well as a broad ranging discussion on the ICIP issues that directly affect your communities and cultural practices.
These discussions will contribute to our larger work with Terri Janke Company to develop and provide resources for communities to help protect ICIP in First Nations arts and cultural practice.
Where: Leeton Museum Art Gallery
27-33 Chelmsford Place, Leeton NSW 2705
When: Tuesday 2nd December 2025
11am - 2pm
Image: Arts Northern Rivers, Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Weaving Workshop, Evans Head, Photograph by Kate Holmes
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The Shadow and The Maker
The Shadow and the Maker brings together Egyptian khayamiya, shadow puppetry inspired by the medieval tradition of khayal al-zill, and linoprints by Dr Sam Bowker to explore how heritage and imagination continue to shape one another.
From Cairo’s Tentmakers to Leeton, these works bridge centuries of tradition and storytelling. Each stitch, shadow, silhouette, and print honours the makers. From the hand-sewn shadow screen of Essam Ali to the intricate linoprints created by Dr. Bowker, The Shadow and the Maker reveals the living dialogue between artist and artisan, tradition and innovation.
As the Grand Egyptian Museum opens its doors, this exhibition reminds us that Egypt’s centuries-old traditions continue to evolve and resonate across the world.
The Exhibition runs from 7th November 2025 till the 5th January 2026
Details are below:
Leeton Museum Art Gallery
27-33 Chelmsford Pl, Leeton NSW 2705
Hours Monday to Saturday 10am - 3pm (Except public holidays and scheduled closure periods)
Phone
0269530993
Email
lmag@leeton.nsw.gov.au
Social media
https://www.facebook.com/LeetonMuseum/
https://www.instagram.com/leetonmag/
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Light up Leeton 2025
A Christmas Extravaganza at Mountford Park:
As the first Sunday in December rolls around, Mountford Park comes alive with the sights and sounds of the holiday season. The Community Christmas carnival and concert offer a delightful experience for people of all ages. With a wide array of family-friendly activities, delicious food vendors, and live performances, the park is transformed into a joyful wonderland, making it the perfect place to kickstart your Christmas celebrations.
A Dazzling Drive to Remember:
The festivities at Mountford Park are only the beginning! Once the sun sets and darkness blankets the town, prepare to be mesmerised by the brilliance of Light Up Leeton. Over 200 homes and businesses come together to illuminate the town with dazzling Christmas lights, creating a captivating spectacle for everyone to enjoy.
Embrace the Spirit of Community:
Light Up Leeton is not just a beautiful sight to behold; it’s a celebration of community spirit and togetherness. Witness the magic of neighbours joining in to spread joy and cheer through their spectacular light displays. The event fosters a sense of unity and community among the residents and visitors alike.
December 7, 2025
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Yanco Powerhouse Museum Open Day and Yanco Miniature Trains
On the last Sunday of every month at the Yanco Powerhouse Museum you’re invited to experience the magic of the Miniature Train rides. Nestled in picturesque Yanco, this family-friendly attraction promises a delightful journey through time and the region’s rich history. Join in and explore the enchanting world of these miniature locomotives and what makes this experience an unmissable adventure.
Make a day of it and discover Yanco Markets – a diverse treasure trove with fresh produce, unique handcrafted gifts, captivating reads, and more. Explore long-time favourites and exciting new stalls for delightful surprises while supporting local businesses. Satisfy your taste buds with tempting hot food and drinks. Join us at Yanco Town Hall, Main Avenue, Yanco, on the last Sunday of every month.
Sunday 30th November
Markets - Yanco Hall
9am - 1pm
Miniature Trains - Yanco Powerhouse Museum
10am-2pm
$2/rider
Enclosed footwear required.
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Primavera – The Art of Spring Community Exhibition
ARTSPACE – Griffith Regional Theatre
October 10 – 19 December
Griffith Regional Art Gallery proudly presents Primavera – The Art of Spring Community Exhibition bringing the lively theme to the Griffith Regional Theatre – ARTSPACE.
Local artists are called to submit work that explores flora, fauna and our natural world for the exhibition through 2D medium expressive forms. These include; painting, drawing, digital print media, photography, mixed media and printmaking. The exhibition offers locals the opportunity to participate in an exhibition that will coincide with Griffith’s celebrated Spring Fest.
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National Gallery of Australia: Sharing the Collection
The Gallery is delighted to be hosting work from the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, as part of its Sharing the National Collection initiative. This program will see precious artworks from the NGA being loaned to regional galleries all over Australia.
Griffith is hosting Treasure Trove – 50 years of Jewellery from The National Gallery of Australia. This collection features key pieces of contemporary jewellery from the NGA Collection and shares an overview of creative trends in the development of Australian contemporary jewellery over the past four to five decades.
Opening Hours:
Wednesday to Friday: 10am – 5pm
Weekends: 11am – 2pm
Please note: the Gallery is closed between exhibitions for changeover. Please check our exhibition dates or call the Gallery on 6962 8338 for more information.
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Griffith Regional Art Gallery Workshops
Date: December 4th, 2025Time: 11:00am – 1:30pm
Where: Griffith Regional Art Gallery
Who: 18 Years and over
Cost: Free
The Griffith Regional Art Gallery is opening its courtyard for artists to come in and enjoy a collaborative art space. Have you got an art project or artwork you have been working on at home that you just can’t get finished? Book a place at the GRAG Open Studio and join other local creatives for ideas, encouragement and inspiration.
Materials & Equipment
Bring along any of your projects, materials and equipment. Gallery easels are available for use.
Please note: we are unable to facilitate any equipment that needs a power source eg. Sewing machines, Pyrography pens, power tools etc.
Open Studio Sessions are facilitated by GRAG Public Programs Officer Isis-Rae Ronan and are available to those 18 years and over.
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JamFactory ICON Julie Blyfield: Chasing a Passion @ Griffith Regional Art Gallery
One of Australia’s most revered contemporary craft practitioners, Blyfield is highly skilled in the traditional metalsmithing technique of chasing and repoussé. These techniques are central to the creation of her delicate and ornately patterned works, which are primarily constructed of sterling silver and bi-metal.
These works are inspired by her experience visiting the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
JamFactory ICON Julie Blyfield: Chasing a Passion is on display from Saturday, 8 November, until Sunday, 18 January with the opening event on the 14th of November at 6pm at the Griffith Regional Art Gallery.
JamFactory ICON Julie Blyfield: Chasing a Passion is a JamFactory touring exhibition. Julie Blyfield, Corallium brooches #1–19, 2024, patinated bi-metal: copper, sterling silver,oxidised sterling silver, enamel paint, wax, largest: 90 x 113 x 15 mm.
photographer: Grant Hancock
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Ugly Things’ - free art exhibition and workshops
All welcome! Explore artworks inspired by The Cape at Jerilderie.
📅 Exhibition: 3 Nov to 1 Dec 2025
📍 Jerilderie Library, 41–43 Jerilderie Street
Watercolour Workshops (15 spots only!)
* Workshop Sun 30 Nov | 9:30 am to 1:30 pm | The Cape - Bookings essential!
📱 Book: 0427 275 886 | ros.lockhart@outlook.com | or at the Library
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M.A.K.E - Murrumbidgee Arts Kinship Enterprise
Each week at the Kerri Weymouth Art Gallery and Studio in Coleambally, MAKE provides a space for art-making and community-centred projects that enhance well-being and foster personal growth.
MAKE is more than an art workshop; it is a social enterprise committed to supporting regional women, breaking down barriers, and building stronger, more resilient communities through the power of creativity.
The MAKE group has become something truly special—a space where women come together to find strength, voice, and connection through the transformative power of art.
Call Kerri for inquiries – 0407233240
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Jerilderie Library Seniors Movie
Looking for a chance to sit back, relax and watch a movie with friends?
pop into jerilderie library as movies are hosted on the first Friday of each month (exlcuding public holidays)
Next Session:
Friday, 05 December 2025 | 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Jerilderie Library
45 Jerilderie Street.
For more details, contact the library on: (03) 5886 1868
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COMMUNITY CATCHUP: A NEW SPIRIT FM RADIO SHOW!
Join Spirit FM 91.1 (Narrandera) on a Thursday or Friday morning 9-11 a.m.
Do you, or your organisation/group/club, want to let people know about events, functions, news? The Spirit FM team would love to hear from you.
Book your spot by contacting Sue via Spirit FM 91.1 messenger, email or by contacting the Station Manager.
A wonderful way to catch up on what’s happening across our community and to enjoy some of our favourite tunes together.
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Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP)
Supporting arts and culture in NSW
The Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) is one of our main funding programs supporting a range of artforms to foster innovation, vibrancy, creativity and sustainability within the sector.
Find funding, resources and information for individual artists, arts and cultural workers, and organisations (including Local Government Authorities).
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Arts Hub
Launched in 2001, Artshub is part of the Creative Hubs Group network. The Creative Hubs Group is a network of award-winning digital media destinations including ArtsHub, ScreenHub, and GamesHub and ArtsHub UK, attracting a global audience interested in the arts, events, culture, entertainment and gaming.
ArtsHub is Australia’s leading destination for the Arts Industry, artists and arts and entertainment lovers. Industry news, reviews, events, jobs, courses, grants and opportunities.
Head to their website for news, opportunities, events and more!
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RANSW Quick Response Grants
Quick Response Grants are available on a monthly basis from February to November, with all applications being competitively assessed at the end of each month. The grant amounts vary, with individuals able to apply for up to $3000 and organisations up to $5000, though there is no minimum grant amount. It’s important to note that there is a limited funding pool, so accurate budgeting is crucial to ensure you are only applying for the amount you truly need.
These grants are designed to assist with urgent needs that may arise unexpectedly and are not covered by other funding rounds. This includes opportunities such as professional development, skills development, and small projects that require immediate attention.
Projects funded by the Quick Response Grants must begin within 2–12 weeks of the closing date of the round in which the application is made. Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their applications no later than 5 business days after the end of each month’s assessment.
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Practice in Community Grants
Regional Arts Australia, with support from Minderoo Foundation, has just launched "Practice in Community", which is a new national funding program offering multi-year grants of $160,000 to support independent artists living and working in regional areas.
Practice in Community focuses on artists working with their local communities through Community Arts and Cultural Development (CACD), and values process just as much as outcomes.
Expressions of Interest open October 2025, with five artists to begin their projects in 2026 and six more in 2027.
Find out more via Regional Arts Australia and start preparing your application.
https://regionalarts.com.au/pic
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25/26 Createability Internship
Key information
Grant amount: If successful, applicants will not receive any direct funding from Create NSW. Instead, they will be employed and paid by the Host Organisations for up to four weeks (20 days or 160 hours) or eight weeks (40 days or 320 hours).
Application opened: 3 November 2025
Application closes: 15 December 2025, 2:00 pm
Program Objective:
To support arts, cultural, sound, screen and creative industry organisations to be diverse and inclusive and develop career pathways for people with disability.
To create new opportunities for artists and arts workers with disability.
To remove barriers to employment and provide training, mentoring and support for emerging creatives.
Program Overview:
The Createability Internship Program supports up to 16 participants who are placed with up to 16 NSW organisations across the arts, cultural, sound, screen and creative industry sectors.
The program provides customised training for the host organisation followed by paid internships.
The desired outcomes of the program include increased skills development for and growth in participation of people with disability, leading to more people with disability contracted and employed by arts, cultural, sound, screen and creative industry organisations across NSW.
The Createability Internship Program is a partnership between Create NSW, Screen NSW, Sound NSW and Accessible Arts NSW and a range of NSW-based arts, cultural, sound, screen and creative industry organisations.
For more information, visit the NSW Grants and Opptunities page.
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