Wollongong’s Culture Mix returns in September. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
Wollongong’s annual festival of multiculturalism will return for its fourth year, organisers have confirmed.
Culture Mix Festival will once more transform the CBD on Saturday 26 September into a vibrant celebration of the city’s diversity.
Visitors to the CBD can expect all the hallmarks of the event, including traditional music, dance, art and cuisine of the many different cultures that call Wollongong home.
Individuals and groups in the Wollongong Local Government Area wishing to be part of the celebration can now submit an expression of interest or development grant application for one-off funding of up to $3000 to develop festival content.
They will become part of a curated program of events that last year attracted more than 20,000 visitors.
“What really stands out is the opportunity the festival offers for attendees to not only see and hear what’s on offer, but to actually participate through the dance, music and art workshops,” Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown said.
Councillor Brown said the appeal of Culture Mix had only grown as performers, stallholders and organisers found new and innovative ways to contribute authentic and unique cultural experiences to the program.
“I encourage all interested individuals or groups to submit an EOI, particularly those that may not have participated in the festival before and feel they bring something new and exciting,” she said.
“It’s what makes Culture Mix great and, whether you head out for the first time or the fourth time this September, I’m certain you will see something new and exciting and experience something memorable.”
This means close collaboration with the community has always been a cornerstone of the festival, driving its success but also ensuring it’s a true reflection of Wollongong.
“It’s a celebration of the community, by the community,” Cr Brown said.
Interested people or groups can perform, present a workshop or hold a food or cultural stall, though performance and workshop spaces are limited.
All EOIs will be assessed against the outlined selection criteria and in the context of a diverse and balanced cultural offering that reflects the wide range of cultures.
Assessment for grant funding will prioritise innovative projects that encourage involvement of new participants, demonstrate a sharing of culture across different groups, and help build capacity and experience within community groups and organisations.
Funding can be used for things like workshops and project development sessions, engagement of a creative mentor, rehearsal space hire, costumes and props, equipment and materials, as well as travel and performance costs.
Expressions of interest and development grant applications will close at midnight on Wednesday 27 May, and applicants will be notified in June.
For more information, visit Culture Mix.
