A new set of interactive online maps that pulls together all of the amazing arts and cultural experiences in Central NSW was launched last week at centralnsw.com.
Culture Maps Central NSW uses maps and pop-up images to pinpoint museums, heritage sites and trails; galleries and artist studios; places to shop for handmade things; Aboriginal cultural places and experiences, and for the first time – a comprehensive regional map of public art.
CEO of the Central NSW Joint Organisation of Councils, Jenny Bennett, said art and culture are rated as the top things for visitors to see and do when travelling throughout regional NSW.
“The maps reveal the diversity of these experiences available in our own backyard,” said Ms Bennett. “It’s a great resource for locals to familiarise themselves; ready for when their visitors can safely return or for exploring places close to home.”
There’s more than 100 places in the Cabonne Shire to be found on Culture Maps Central NSW. There’s so much to explore on the maps and in person, from the popular Animals on Bikes and Eugowra Murals artworks, to bushranger stories, museums and craft shops stretching from Yeoval to Canowindra.
RDA Central West CEO, Sam Harma explained that Culture Maps Central NSW will also play an important role for the local tourism economy in a post-Covid recovery.
“This is a region that is full of art, culture and history; but those assets are not just fascinating to explore, they are a really important part of the regional economy,” said Mr Harma.
Culture Maps Central NSW was produced by regional arts development organisation Arts OutWest in partnership with the Central NSW Joint Organisation of Councils, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Central West and the tourism teams at the 11 local councils in the region.
The project cost approximately $20,000 to develop, largely in staff time, research and web development. Website design and development was by Orange-based Sauce Design.
Arts OutWest also welcomes additions or updates to listings on Culture Maps Central NSW. Email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au.