General News
13 April, 2023
On the Tiny Town trail
Throughout the goldfields region, artists, gallery owners and shop keepers are preparing for an influx of visitors over the Anzac weekend (April 22-24) when the Tiny Towns Arts Trail once again showcases the creativity of central Victoria. Judy...
Throughout the goldfields region, artists, gallery owners and shop keepers are preparing for an influx of visitors over the Anzac weekend (April 22-24) when the Tiny Towns Arts Trail once again showcases the creativity of central Victoria.
Judy Meldrum is one of the organisers of the trail. She has been involved since it was first discussed as an idea at a meeting of like-minded locals more than seven years ago.
“I was part of the northern goldfields tourism group that was looking at things to help promote smaller communities and the activities of artists and creatives in our corner of the world,” Judy said.
“(Dunolly artist) John Moir was a pivotal part of the trail at the beginning, he hatched the idea.
“It has grown over the years. We received a community grant for the Central Goldfields Shire that allowed as to build a web page which we have invested in as a central part of the information about the trail.
“Then mid-last-year our name was put forward for a tourism development grant through Regional Arts Victoria and the Australian Governments Regional Arts Fund. We were one of 21 small to medium creative businesses that received funding as well as mentoring from marketing people in Melbourne.
“That is what has given us a big spur on this year and the ability to expand the webpage and create a better marketing and tourism strategy.”
With a background in the arts and theatre production, Judy is thrilled at the continued growth of the arts trail, which has become a popular event on the calendar for locals and visitors alike.
As she explained, no two trails are ever the same — with new artists coming on board and others moving away, even regular trail visitors will discover something new.
“As well as discovering our beautiful part of the world, this year visitors will have the chance to win great prizes with the Adventure Rewards Card,” Judy said.
“Just pick up a card at one of the exhibitions, visit at least one exhibit in a minimum of six towns on the trail and go into the draw.”
This year the trail covers nearly 250 kilometres and takes in the towns of Newstead, Clunes, Talbot, Maryborough, Adelaide Lead, Avoca, Dunolly, Tarnagulla, Laanecoorie, Eddington, Bealiba and St Arnaud.
There is still time for artists to enter their work for consideration for the art prize, with two categories, one judged by a panel of experts and the other — The People’s Choice Award — voted by the public.
Entries close this Sunday, April 16.
To plan your journey or enter an artwork visit www.tinytownsartstrail.com.au