Regional towns across Victoria are set to host more live performances and creative workshops under a new round of state funding aimed at strengthening local arts activity.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks has announced that 13 community groups and not-for-profit organisations will receive support through the latest round of the Small Regional Presenters Program. The initiative is designed to attract established artists to regional venues while building skills within local communities.
“Victoria’s creative spirit thrives in every part of our state, and programs like Small Regional Presenters ensure that regional communities have access to high-quality performances and experiences close to home,” Mr Brooks said.
Among the recipients is St Arnaud Arts Council, which will stage a three-day residency with actor and comedian Damian Callinan. The project will gather stories from local residents before culminating in an evening of storytelling alongside a performance by the St Arnaud Citizens Band.
Eildon Events, a first-time grant recipient, will bring musical comedy duo David Cosma and Charles Jenkins to the region. The pair will lead a workshop with local residents, resulting in the creation of a song unique to the town.
In the north-east, King Valley Arts will present three live performances and a series of hands-on workshops in the lead up to the annual King Valley Arts Show in November. In Creswick, the popular CresFest music festival will expand its year-round presence, presenting three events across 2026 in partnership with local community groups.
Colin Brooks MP
“Victoria’s creative spirit thrives in every part of our state, and programs like Small Regional Presenters ensure that regional communities have access to high-quality performances and experiences close to home”
Local councils are also among those receiving support. Indigo Shire Council will deliver a creative program for primary-aged children in some of the shire’s most geographically isolated areas. Across The Arts Yarrawonga-Mulwala will broaden its range of performances throughout the community, while Moorabool Shire Council will host music and literature events across Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Blackwood, pairing local artists with visiting talent.
Beyond live events, three projects in South Gippsland, Nathalia and Blackwood will work with Regional Arts Victoria partner Songlines Aboriginal Music Cooperation. The collaboration aims to strengthen engagement and programming for local First Peoples communities.
“These grants empower local presenters to bring music, theatre, and cultural events to life, strengthening community connections and celebrating the diversity of our creative talent,” Mr Brooks said.
The Small Regional Presenters Program is delivered by Regional Arts Victoria and supports organisations that might otherwise struggle to attract touring artists or run workshops in smaller centres. By focusing on partnerships and skill development, the program seeks to build capacity within regional communities rather than fund one-off performances alone.
For many towns, local halls, community centres and small theatres serve as cultural meeting points. Funding of this kind can help organisers take on projects that would otherwise sit beyond their financial reach, whether through artist fees, production costs or workshop facilitation.
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13 Victorian community grps will share funding to bring live performances & creative workshops to regional towns. The program aims to strengthen local arts, build skills & connect communities wt visiting artists through hands-on projects. #TheIndianSun
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