A renewed vision and fresh energy were on full display at Friday night’s Greater Lithgow Arts Council Gala, with a vibrant evening at the Gang Gang Gallery showcasing both local talent and the organisation’s recent transformation.
Established in 1997 by Mrs Rae Burton, long-time Director of the Lithgow Musical Society, the Greater Lithgow Arts Council has long been at the heart of recognising and celebrating creative achievement across the region. The organisation’s recent refresh builds on that strong foundation, with a renewed direction that honours and reinforces Mrs Burton’s legacy of supporting and championing local artists.
In recent months, led by President Dianne O’Sullivan, the Council has broadened its scope, strengthened connections and opened its doors to greater community involvement — and the success of the Gala reflected this shift. The evening brought together artists, community members, councillors and supporters of the arts in a celebration of creativity, collaboration and community spirit.
A key part of the organisation’s evolution has been a focus on accessibility and participation. Membership is now open to practising artists and creatives — individuals or groups — for just $10 per year, creating new opportunities for people to connect and contribute.
The Gala highlighted this inclusive approach, recognising nominees across performing arts, visual arts and creative arts and crafts, with a strong focus on amateur artists of all ages. Importantly, artists are nominated by the public and can be put forward at any time throughout the year, with a QR code linking directly to an easy-to-use online nomination form. Nominations are then assessed by a panel of independent judges, ensuring a fair and credible process that reflects the quality and diversity of local talent.
The structured program combined performances, presentations and awards, creating a polished and engaging event that reflects a more contemporary and outward-looking organisation.
Award winners on the night included Jackson Simons (Junior Individual Performing Arts), Sam Williams, known as Sam Bucca (Adult Individual Performing Arts), Brooke Hennesy (Adult Individual Arts & Craft), and joint winners Brad Sullivan and Lily Sheather (Adult Individual Visual Arts). The major award for Adult Group Performing Arts went to Ross Yates and the Lithgow Radio Players, recognised for their contribution to inclusive and accessible community theatre.
The evening was enriched by strong local partnerships. The Gang Gang Gallery provided an ideal setting, while students from Lithgow High School’s Food Technology department impressed guests with high-quality canapés. Local musicians Brian Kinney and Peter Avery added to the atmosphere, and support from Arts OutWest and the Mayor of Lithgow, Cassandra Coleman, highlighted growing collaboration across the sector.
With strong community backing and a clear direction, the Greater Lithgow Arts Council is entering an exciting new phase — one that builds on its proud history while creating new opportunities to support, connect and celebrate the region’s creative talent.
