Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) for 2026 grant applications are now open for 2026, with Round One closing on 27th September 2026. This funding is a partnership between Queensland Government (through Arts Queensland) and Hinchinbrook Shire Council, designed to support and grow arts, culture and heritage in our Shire.
RADF empowers communities by investing in locally driven creative projects that reflect our unique identity and priorities. It is a flexible funding program that allows Council to tailor support to meet the needs of our community.
Council welcomes creative applications from local artists, community groups or anyone with a colourful vision for our Shire.
One very recent example of RADF funded project, that is nearing completion, is the first stage mural artwork that has been installed on the western wall of the laneway between Hinchinbrook Shire Council building and the neighbouring property. This vibrant and modern artwork has been a collaboration between the property owner, local business owner, secondary school and artist.
Project leads, Amber Pollock and Kristina Fontana, have conceived and managed the delivery of this lively and colourful project and I commend them for their vision. This mural has transformed one wall of the laneway, into a vibrant depiction of our Hinchinbrook lifestyle.
The students and staff from Gilroy Santa Maria College, who have worked with Kristina on this project and were excited to contribute to the creative design and delivery of this mural. The ladies acknowledged delivery of this project would not have been possible, without the assistance of the RADF grant and expressed their gratitude to all involved to achieve this outcome.
Whilst the first stage is nearing completion, the ladies have a broader vision to bring the remainder of the laneway to life, by delivering additional artworks and other features that will activate the space and enhance the appeal of the area.
Early planning has now begun for the next stage artworks, where it is intended to invite students from other local schools to participate and contribute to the creative makeover of the CBD.
On behalf of Council and local residents, I would like to express our appreciation to all involved for their commitment, artistic talents and vision, to bring this project to fruition for the community to enjoy.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
