| Western Riverina Arts Newsletter April 2026| Leeton Shire | Narrandera Shire | Murrumbidgee Shire | Griffith City | |
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Important Announcement : Change to Create NSW Project Funding Round 2026 |
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| Image credit: Henry Simmons. Saplings, Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP), Image Credit: Clare Hawley. |
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This year Create NSW will offer one project funding round. The round opened Monday 13 April 2026 and closes 25 May 2026. There are Four Project Funding programs: Creative Nations, Creative Steps – New Work, Professional Development – Next Steps, and Cultural Access – Priority Area. This funding round covers all projects commencing between 1 September 2026 and 31 December 2027. Create NSW Executive Director, Kerri Glasscock said: “Experiencing and expressing culture is a fundamental right for everyone. The Regional Arts Touring and four ACFP Project Funding programs within Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program aim to deliver far-reaching outcomes felt in every corner of NSW.” Glasscock announced the change saying: “We recognise that this change will require applicants to make careful decisions about timing, readiness and the scale of their proposal.” Applicants will need to plan 18 months ahead and are only able to apply in this round in 2026. This is a change from two rounds per year offered previously. “We also know the broader changes to the Arts and Cultural Funding Program have been significant for the sector. An independent review of the program is currently underway” said Glasscock. However, the total funding pool remains the same at $4.28 million to “support local artists and organisations, spanning all artforms.” |
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| Penny Paniz Aquisitive Art Prize 2026 |
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| The Penny Paniz Acquisitive Arts Exhibition has returned to Leeton Museum and Art Gallery for 2026, once again bringing together a diverse collection of works from across the region’s creative community.
Presented annually by the Leeton Art Society, this much-anticipated exhibition has grown steadily since its inception in 2013 and remains a highlight of the local arts calendar. With more than 160 artworks on display and available for purchase, the exhibition showcases a rich mix of styles, stories and perspectives.
The exhibition officially opened on Friday, 27 March, welcoming hundreds of visitors for an evening that celebrated the depth of artistic talent across the Leeton Shire. This year’s theme, My Country, invited artists to reflect on place, identity and connection, resulting in a thoughtful and varied body of work.
2026 Prize Winners
2026 Acquisitive winner, Ayla Young ‘The Golden Fleece’ 2026 Champion Exhibit, Barbara O’Leary ‘The Water Flows’ 2026 Flora / Botanical Winner, Kathy Little ‘Tender Majesty’ 2026 Animals Winner, Donna Brown ‘Maverick’ 2026 Birds Winner, Kathy Little ‘Flying Really is Easier’ 2026 Still Life Winner, Ann-Maree Thompson ‘My Work Here is Done’ 2026 Landscapes Winner, Michelle Fletcher ‘My Jarrah Forest’ 2026 Portraits Winner, Zoe Hayward ‘R&R On The Goldfields’ 2026 Abstract Winner, Kathy Little ‘More Than We Can Imagine’ 2026 Digital Artwork Winner, Glenn Saddler ‘Digit’ 2026 Indigenous Artwork Winner, Jack Caley ‘Meeting Under The Stars’ 2026 Photography Winner, Mary-Anne Lattimore ‘Ancient Trees’ 2026 Youth Art Winner, Taylah Curry ‘Gone Quackers’ 2026 Youth Art Encouragement, Fred Furore ‘Alain Lewis’ 2026 Highly Commended, Jan Thompson ‘Flower Arrangement’ 2026 Encouragement Winner, Rocco Furore ‘Frenzy’ 2026 Encouragement Winner, Tinyka Tabain ‘Dindima Miimi (Star Sisters)’ 2026 Hangers Prize Winner, Vita Vitelli ‘Thinking Flow’ The exhibition runs for six weeks, offering plenty of opportunity to experience the works and discover new artists.
Western Riverina Arts congratulates all the entrants and winners. WRA’s sponsored prize went to Barbara O’Leary. A big thank you to this year’s judges Lindee Russell and Camille Whitehead. |
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| Photo Credit: Lindee Russell, Camille Whitehead, Barbara O’Leary, photo courtesy - Aanya Whitehead |
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| Photo Credit: Penny Paniz Aquisitive Winner - Ayla Young - The Golden Fleece |
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Nganhayung Galingabangbur (Our Children) |
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Miil Miil Productions is this month filming their short film Nganhayung Galingabangbur (Our Children) in and around Leeton.
The film, written by Bernard Higgins, Elijah Ingram and Letetia Harris, is a short drama about a trio of Wiradyuri men at the wake of their Uncle’s funeral. It explores grief and their place in the world through the lens of Wiradyuri Language.
Writer/Producer Bernard Higgins spent years leading the team in developing the script. Bernard’s work as a creative exploring Wiradyuri cultural expression through the contemporary and digital arts has been showcased at the local, state and national level.
Director/Producer/Writer, Elijah Ingram, says: “From my understanding this is the first time Wiradyuri Language has been used so deeply in dialogue in film. It’s a testament to all those who have sustained and protected the language for our people, and we hope that their legacy gets to live on the big screen in a meaningful way.”
The film is created and produced by Miil Miil Productions and the Leeton & District Local Aboriginal Land Council with funding support from the Aboriginal Languages Trust and partnered support from Western Riverina Arts and Leeton Shire Council. |
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Songmakers come to Griffith |
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WRA got to drop into the Songmakers session at Griffith Regional Theatre on Thursday, 9th April to witness our region’s next-gen creating their own music in an inspiring and supportive atmosphere.
The workshops were partnered with ArtFarm, a regional not-for-profit arts organisation based in the Riverina that is dedicated to the development of sustainable arts and cultural programs (www.artfarm.org.au).
Songmakers NSW Manager Reginald Harris was highly impressed with the young workshop participants saying: “We'd love to come back to the region at some point later this year”. If any High Schools, Arts Centres or other organisations want to collaborate, get in touch!” Mentoring and workshops sessions can be arranged by visiting their website: www.songmakers.com.au |
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The Joyce Spencer Textile Awards 2026 |
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The Joyce Spencer Textile Awards are opening for 2026!
The Joyce Spencer Textile Awards are offered annually to support regional NSW textile artists or collectives to deliver new artworks or exhibitions.
Named after the late textile artist Joyce Spencer (1928 – 2019), the awards are made possible with funds from the Spencer family and Western Riverina Arts in partnership with the Cad Factory.
This year, there are three prizes on offer:
$4000 Fellowship $1500 Highly Commended $600 Prize
Round 6 applications will open on Monday, 27 April 2026.
Applications will close on Friday, 19 June 2026, at midnight AEST.
All applicants will be contacted regarding the success of their applications on Friday, 10 July 2026.
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| Image credit: Amy Hammond, Round 5 Highly Commended Award Recipient. Photo courtesy of Jacquie Manning for the Sydney Opera House Uncovered program. |
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| Opening this month is a new exhibition in Griffith that explores creativity as it moves between mediums and around the world. The ‘Stay Cool’ project encompasses writing workshops, Japanese-style short-form poetry and contemporary music composition, as well as photography and is a collaboration between Riverina's Red Earth Ecology and Italian record label Naviar. It builds on previous exhibitions, such as 'Crossing Streams' in Narrandera in 2017. Curator Jason Richardson has been a contributor to Naviar Records' weekly haiku challenges for over a decade and recorded nearly 300 compositions as a result. Stay Cool will exhibit from 25 April to 31 May at Griffith Regional Theatre. This project has been supported by Griffith City Council through their Regional Art Gallery, as well as financial assistance from the NSW Government through Western Riverina Arts and Create NSW. |
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| | | Creative Riverina Directory |
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| | Western Riverina Arts Contact Page |
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| | | | | | | | | Leeton Art Society Casual Tuesdays |
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These in-person events are on every Tuesday, and are a supportive and friendly learning environment where you can experiment and learn new techniques to your art.
Please bring all your supplies.
Tuesday Morning Casual Art group
9.30am – 2.00pm Tuesday Evening Casual Art group
6.30pm – 8.30pm
For more information, contact: Vita Vitelli via LASI email $5 members, $10 non-members.
Tea and coffee are provided. Location: Gordon Hall, Leeton Multipurpose Community Centre, 3-5 Wade Avenue, Leeton |
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| Image credit: Leeton Roxy Community Theatre |
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Swingin' Blues Bros. Saturday 9th May 6:30pm | $30 Adults | Table of 10 $25pp Groove Inc. are suiting up and putting on the shades to bring you the iconic sound of The Blues Brothers!
Get swept into the world of rhythm, blues, and punchy brass as Groove Inc. fires up the classics that made Jake and Elwood famous with their unmistakeable black-suit magic. With special guest Lachlan McIntyre!
The Ukulele Man 16th May 2026 | 2:00pm | $18 - $28 The Ukulele Man is the true story of wartime comedian and ukulele legend George Formby! From the music halls of Blackpool to the battlefields of Europe, this is the untold history of Britain's greatest entertainer! Join Marcel Cole and his real-life mother Katie at the Leeton Roxy Theatre for an unforgettable afternoon of music, laughs,
Britishmania 30th May 2026 | 7:30pm | $59.90 - $69.90 Get ready to twist and shout as Britishmania - storms the stage for an unforgettable night of classic hits that shaped music history! Britishmania celebrates the timeless music of legendary artists, featuring internationally acclaimed entertainer Glenn Starr and his live band. |
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| | | | Join in and sing up a storm at the Narrandera Arts Centre every Tuesday night (unless advised otherwise) at 6:30 pm.
Everyone is welcome and free to sing in a safe and caring environment and together, we can change the world, one voice at a time. |
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| Image credit: With one voice riverina community choir at the Narrandera CRC Theatre |
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| | Brush Group @ The ArtsHub |
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| Every Wednesday night from 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Do you enjoy painting, drawing, creating? Join in each week, come for an hour, come for longer - we're here until 8pm so drop in, have a cuppa and pick up a brush if you feel inclined.
ArtsHub @ Narrandera Railway Station
Cost: Premium members - FREE General member - $5 Non-member - $10 |
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| Image credit: supplied - NACNET |
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| | Creative Textile Group @ The ArtsHub |
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Join in on the creative textile group with Lindee Russell with the 2026 theme “womanhood”.
Take the opportunity to combine talents, share interpretations of the theme and create both individual and collaborative works that push the boundary and reflect the thoughtfulness and awe of womanhood.
ArtsHub @ Narrandera Railway Station
Cost: Premium members - FREE General member - $5 Non-member - $10
For more information contact Lindee on 0411277368 or email nacnet@hotmail.com |
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| Image credit: Supplied - NACNET |
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ARTIST ESSENTIALS:
Beginners Watercolour with Karly Sivewright |
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Discover the beauty of watercolour in this beginner‑friendly workshop with Karly Sivewright.
Over two evenings, participants will explore essential watercolour techniques, while also gaining an understanding of the colour wheel. Building on these techniques, the workshop will also cover composition, layering, and developing depth and texture through thoughtful washes and built‑up layers. By the end, participants will have the confidence to apply their new skills and take home a completed artwork. All materials are provided with take home notes and step by step guide.
About Karly
Karly Sivewright is a local artist whose practice is driven by a love of storytelling through texture, atmosphere and diverse artistic mediums. Her work spans a wide creative spectrum from delicate, emotive watercolour to bold, large‑scale murals that enliven public spaces. Karly’s versatility and curiosity as an artist underpin her approach, allowing her to move fluidly between fine detail and expansive form while maintaining a strong sense of narrative throughout her work. Please Note: This workshop takes place over two Thursdays (23 & 30 April). We do not offer refunds or exchanges as a result of a change in your personal circumstances, including illness or change of mind.
Who: Ages 18+
Where: Griffith Regional Art Gallery
When: Thursday 23 & 30 April, 6pm – 8pm
Cost: $70
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Image: credit: Griffith Regional Art Gallery |
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Community Exhibition: Roots & Reflections |
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Griffith Regional Art Gallery (GRAG) is proud to present the 2026 community exhibition Roots and Reflections.
Local artists have contributed artworks interpreting the theme of the exhibition and showcasing the talent of artists within Griffith and the surrounding areas.
There are two parts to this exhibition, the first is artworks that showcases 2D and 3D pieces with a range of art practices explored including, painting, drawing, mix-media, sculpture and photography.
The second section within this exhibition required artists to use a size specific surface for their artwork. All artworks within this section are unlabelled and for sale, once the exhibition period is completed, only then will the artists name and artwork title be revealed to the purchaser.
Exhibition Details: Saturday 28 March – Sunday 3 May |
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Image credit: Karly Sivewright, Fresh figs and spritz (detail), Aerosol & oil on canvas |
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Every Saturday Night From 8pm at The Griffith Exies Club! May Line-up
2nd May – Duble 9th May – The Mighty Yak 16th May – Casual Sax 23rd May – Alex Pietro 30th May – John Martin Make a night of it — enjoy a meal at the Bistro, grab a drink and settle in for a great night of live music. |
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| Image credit: Sourced - Visit Griffith |
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Griffith Regional Art Gallery Open Studio |
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| 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.
Open Studio Sessions are facilitated by GRAG Public Programs Officer, Isis-Rae Ronan.
MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT
Bring along 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.
Date: April 30th, 2026 10:00am - 12:30pm |
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SmARTy Kids Junior
School Year 1 - 3 |
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| Looking for an educational and fun extracurricular activity?
Then you need our ever-popular SmARTy Kids afterschool art classes! Drop off the kids for an hour of artistic exploration, creativity, and learning.
This term, students will explore the world of colour using a variety of materials, including acrylic paint, watercolour, and pastels.
All materials supplied.
Where: Griffith Regional Art Gallery
When: Thursdays 4pm-5pm, 30 April and 7, 14, 21 May
Cost: $40 for whole term (4 Sessions) |
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| Image credit: Griffith Regional Art Gallery |
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| | | Toganmain Wool Shed Precinct Open Day |
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If you have ever wanted to experience the wonder of Toganmain first-hand and see the restoration work in progress, we’d love for you to join in at one of our upcoming Open Days!
Please keep in mind that Toganmain is a work in progress, and facilities on-site are extremely limited.
We recommend coming prepared for a rustic experience as we continue working to restore this historic precinct.
We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the history, progress, and future vision of Toganmain! Please ensure to visit the Toganmain website to book for our Open Day.
Next Open Day - 9th May 2026
Exciting news — we're also running an additional Open Day on Saturday 9th May 2026 as part of the Australian Heritage Festival! Join us from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM to explore the woolshed precinct, historical displays and market stalls, with knowledgeable volunteers on hand throughout the day.
Tickets are $20 per adult or $50 for a family pass (2 adults + children). Don't miss this extra opportunity! |
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| Image credit: Murrumbidgee Shire Council & Toganmain Wool Shed Precinct |
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| Jerilderie Library Knitting Club |
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Knitting Club hosted on Thursdays, excluding public holidays, at the Jerilderie Library. All are welcome to attend.
Next date: Thursday, 23 April 2026 | 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM When Thursday, 23 April 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Thursday, 30 April 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Thursday, 07 May 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Thursday, 14 May 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Thursday, 21 May 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Show all dates Location Jerilderie Library, 45 Jerilderie St, Jerilderie, New South Wales, Australia, 2716, View Map |
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| Image sourced - Canva stock images. |
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Stories Matter: A Writing and Literature Strategy for NSW |
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NSW authors, playwrights, illustrators and other literature creatives are invited to submit Expressions of Interest to take up 12 or 24 months subsidised tenancies within heritage houses in the heart of Sydney. An initiative of the recently launched Stories Matter: A Writing and Literature Strategy for NSW, The Rocks Creative Terraces repurposes a row of four historic terraces into affordable living spaces exclusively for NSW writers and literature creatives. Open now, eligible NSW writers and literature creatives are invited to submit an Expression of Interest before 2pm Thursday 23 April 2026, with rental agreements commencing from June 2026. For further details and to submit an EOI, visit 25/26 The Rocks Creative Terraces EOI | NSW Government. |
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AI is Here to Stay. Learn Where to Begin |
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If you run a non-profit it is important to learn all about the impacts of AI and how it can work impact your outcomes. You can join a free online session to begin understanding this complex new reality. 2pm 28th April 2026 – Register here https://communities.infoxchange.org/events/10116 |
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Open Now Create NSW Arts and Cultural Funding Program |
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This year, four Project Funding programs (Creative Nations, Creative Steps – New Work, Professional Development – Next Steps and Cultural Access – Priority Area) are available for one round in 2026. Applications are open until 25 May 2026. Eligible applications are competitively and independently assessed by Artform Boards. Visit create.nsw.gov.au for guidelines, support resources and application details. |
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| Griffith City Council Community Grants |
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Round 2 Open – 1 March, Closes – 30 April |
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Casual Theatre Technician - Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre
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ArtsHub
Check out all the latest listings, opportunities, events, news and more on ArtsHub
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