Noosa Cultural Plan 2019-2023 Implementation Update · Report

SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING                                       10 SEPTEMBER 2024



REPORT
The purpose of this report is to provide Council with an update on the progress of Noosa's Cultural
Plan.

The Cultural Plan 2019-2023 spanned a period of unprecedented change and challenge, both within
the Noosa region and across the globe. Natural disasters together with the global pandemic of
COVID-19 not only required Council to quickly re-assess priorities but also presented significant
unforeseen costs.

During this time of shared stress and uncertainty within our community, the purpose of Noosa
Council’s Cultural Plan was stark; to recognise the value of arts, culture and heritage in fostering a
healthy, resilient and cohesive community. At no other time has cultural activity played such an
important role in helping people make sense of and process an ever-changing world. Noosa
Council’s commitment to implementing the Cultural Plan resulted in a range of outcomes that
inspired our community, reduced social isolation, and facilitated community and civic participation.

At the conclusion of 2023, the final year of the Cultural Plan, over 92% of Plan actions were either
completed or underway. This is a major achievement for Council’s Arts & Cultural team, the many
volunteers that assist Council’s arts and cultural services and the community groups that partner
with Council to provide access to cultural experiences. The summary report (refer Attachment 1)
provides details on the work undertaken through the Cultural Plan.

Link to Corporate Plan
Theme No 1 - Environment
Focus areas include the natural environment, built environment, waterways and coasts and conservation
and heritage.
1.4 Discover, respect, conserve and celebrate Noosa's unique heritage values in all forms, for current
and future generations.

Theme No. 2 - Liveability
Liveability encompasses housing, facilities and services, transport, health and wellbeing to enable an
inclusive, connected and vibrant community.
2.3 Nurture arts and culture to enrich the identity and vibrancy of communities, highlight local talent,
celebrate First Nations culture and encourage creative participation and expression.
2.6 facilitate strong, vibrant and inclusive communities where people have a sense of belonging and are
active participants in a rich community life.

Theme No. 3 - Prosperity
Focus areas include economic development, local business, innovation, arts and culture, waste and a
circular economy.
3.6 Grow and enhance the cultural and creative economy through partnerships and delivery of programs,
events and the development of a signature regional art gallery.

Theme No. 4 - Future
This theme is focused on our future, strengthening our relationship with First Nations peoples and to
ensure our community is prepared and resilient to change. A focus on youth, climate resilience and
adaptation, sense of place and destination management.
4.3 Improve opportunities for increased inclusion of young people in community engagement and
decision-making to provide relevant services, activities and opportunities.

Theme No. 5 - Excellence
This theme focuses on customer experience, financial sustainability, innovation and technology, levels of
service, governance, our employees and volunteers, funding streams and asset management practices.
5.9 Ensure that all residents located throughout the Shire, both hinterland and coastal areas, have
equitable access to the provision of quality assets, facilities and services.