The Minister for Creative Industries, Danny Pearson MP, was the special guest of honour at an on-line Creative Arts Forum organised by Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale.
The event was held on the evening of Monday 9 November and brought together local artists and community group representatives who had an opportunity to engage with the State Government on the issues most affecting them, especially the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Creative industries have been one of the hardest hit sections of our community as their profession often relies on audiences, close contact during performances and indoor rehearsals.
All these activities are of concern to the health authorities in regards to spreading the coronavirus.
The Minister acknowledged the impact of the health advice on creative activities and assured the forum attendees that he will continue to raise the issues of artists and groups with health officials while requesting any possible options for further creative activities to be undertaken in a safe manner.
The evening also featured musical performances from Berwick local Andrew Swift, whose recent album debuted at number one on the ARIA Australian Country Charts; popular Afghan artist and Cranbourne resident Taqi Khan Azra; as well as young and upcoming vocalist, Luro.
The State Government has announced $90 million to support the creative sector through the coronavirus pandemic including $19 million for the music industry, $48 million for State-owned creative and cultural institutions and $13 million for non-government arts and cultural organisations.
Further information is available at:
www.creative.vic.gov.au/coronavirus/creative-industries-q-and-as
