On the eve of its annual blockbuster event “The Plunge Festival” the Clarence Valley Cultural Committee will this week host three public meetings to discuss establishing a cultural foundation to ensure its survival.

The committee chair Marea Buist said “the purpose of setting up a foundation was to build on and celebrate Clarence Valley culture while supporting what is already happening in our region.

If the proposal gets up The Clarence Valley Cultural Foundation will encourage a broader conversation across the valley and seek independent sources for funding. 

This will enable tax deduction for donors while at the same time connect and strengthen our historical and heritage connections” Mrs Buist said.

 The current group is a Clarence Valley Council (CVC) 355 Committee and under councils funding agreements, 355 committees can not accept money.

Mrs Buist said “funds raised through the foundation will support annual scholarships, mentorships/networking and advocate with a broader and inclusive voice. 

Foundation programs will also facilitate cultural development and be an outreach for major festivals”.

A motion to establish the Clarence Valley Cultural Foundation will be presented at each of the meetings along with a guest speaker.

Everyone who has an interest in culture is warmly invited to attend.

Meeting venues for the public meetings:

Tuesday March 3: (Yamba) 5:30 – 6:30pm Yamba Artspace;

Wednesday March 4: (South Grafton) 5 – 6pm Clarence Kitchen Collective;

Thursday March 5: (Maclean) 5 – 6pm Ferry Park Gallery.