Tamworth’s Vision is “to be seen as the leading region in rural Australia because it is the perfect place to live, invest, visit and work”. The Cultural Plan will make a significant contribution towards realising this vision.
The Tamworth Regional Council Cultural Plan 2010 – 2015 celebrates the achievements of the previous Tamworth City Council Cultural Plan and provides guidance for a way forward for the next five years. It illustrates the complexity, diversity and richness of the cultural life across the Tamworth region, and in doing so, highlights the key trends and challenges faced in the provision of cultural services and facilities.
In addition to the professional services provided by the Council, educational bodies and the private sector, an enormous contribution is made by volunteers across the region. In all, the Plan lists approximately 109 volunteer organisations that engage members of the community in the provision of a wealth of ctivities and cultural events. “Making our own fun” is an important aspect of life, particularly in the smaller communities where the arts, cultural and heritage calendars abound with interesting and vibrant activities.
It is well know that a robust cultural life is important to the health and wellbeing of any community, including the role it plays in attracting and retaining residents. A key role for Council, identified in the Cultural Plan, is one of provision of facilities and some services, and the generation of support and maintenance of social capital, which is essential to the sustainability of our community life. Collaboration and partnership with volunteers and community organisations in the not for profit sector is outlined in the Plan as a key way of communities working together to meet common needs and aspirations.