ArtsNational Narrabri held its AGM and Christmas celebrations together with a launch of the 2026 program at the home of John and Joan Melbourne on Sunday, November 30.
Chair Fiona Groeneveld thanked her committee for their continued hard work and support throughout the year.
Outgoing committee members Jenny Falkiner, Nanette Watson, Joan Longworth and Barb Francis were presented with gifts and thanked for their invaluable contributions to the organisation.
Jenny Falkiner has served on the committee for 18 years, including four years as secretary, four years as chair, and one year as vice chair.
Incoming members Louise Gett and Graeme Compton were welcomed into the committee.
The arts talks, live presentations held in cinema one at The Crossing Theatre, have once again been a highlight, featuring engaging topics and high-calibre lecturers who bring inspiration and insight to members and visitors alike.
Ms Groeneveld expressed thanks to the Narrabri Shire Council for their grant issued in 2025, which helped cover lecturer fees for the 2024–2025 financial year.
The 2025 ArtsNational Narrabri Young Arts donation was awarded to Graeme Compton, a local visual artist known for his work in portraiture, fantasy and graphic art, as well as an illustrator and writer.
The funds supported a unique initiative led by Graeme to organise and host a two-day workshop titled ‘Literally Illustrating’ designed for Year 12 HSC art students from Narrabri High School.
The workshop offered a rare and enriching opportunity for young aspiring artists to step into the shoes of professional illustrators, nurturing their artistic ambition and strengthening their creative futures.
The annually presented Young Arts award would not be possible without the generous donations from the ArtsNational Narrabri community towards the cause.
Home hosting visiting lecturers, some travelling to Australia from the UK, remains an important part expression of the organisation’s commitment to community spirit and hospitality.
The non-profit organisation, operated entirely by dedicated volunteers is committed to fostering the ongoing growth and strength of the arts community. Its central aim is to ensure that the arts remain a dynamic and thriving presence within the region.
In 2026 the committee are introducing new Young Arts Application and Nomination forms, available both through a QR-code link and in paper format.
These forms will give potential recipients, as well as individuals who wish to nominate a candidate, the opportunity to provide the information needed for Young Arts award consideration.
Each year ArtsNational Narrabri select a school or arts related student group or individual student to receive this award across the district, targeting schools, local bands, and arts groups.
All aspects of the arts are covered – music, dance, theatre, photography, filmmaking, artwork, wood/metalwork, sculpture, literature, textiles and design.
Maximum age for applications for the award is 22 years.
