Monthly column for March 2026 by Janelle Saffin MP, Member for Lismore
THIS year is shaping up to be a big one for arts and entertainment in the Northern Rivers. The standout news on the music front is that Groovin the Moo is back—and coming to Lismore for a one-off‑ event in May
I’m always pushing for events in our region, so I’m delighted that the NSW Government, through Destination NSW, is providing major support to bring this much-loved festival back.
The lineup hasn’t dropped yet, but Groovin the Moo is known for delivering big-‑name acts, so expectations are high. I’ve put in my request to include a local band.
Supporting regional arts, culture and creative industries
The Minns Government has also launched HEARTLAND: A Plan for Regional NSW Arts, Culture and Creative Industries—the first strategy of its kind—backed by $5.2 million. It’s the result of extensive consultation around the state, including communities in the Lismore electorate.
One of the exciting parts of the plan is a $2 million Regional Night-Time Economy pilot, supporting ten regional town business collectives to build stronger, more vibrant night‑time economies.
Regional communities repeatedly emphasised how important arts and culture are for bringing people together, keeping young people connected to their towns, and helping communities recover from disasters like floods, fires and droughts.
The plan is designed to give local creatives better support, more opportunities, and a stronger platform to tell local stories and contribute to local economies.
Around $3.2 million is being invested to build partnerships, strengthen investment and expand creative opportunities, and some funding applications are already open.
Eligible organisations can now apply for the Regional NSW Strategic Partnerships Program. This offers grants of up to $150,000 to deliver programs that strengthen the arts, culture and creative industries in the focus areas of skills development, organisational capacity building, development of partnerships, investment sourcing, audience development, and creative activation of spaces. Applications close on 31 March 2026 at 2pm.
Caption: Janelle Saffin MP at the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre
