THE HON KRISTY MCBAIN MP
MEMBER FOR EDEN-MONARO

The Albanese Government is supporting arts and culture across Eden-Monaro with new funding for projects in Tathra and Goulburn.

We are providing $23,886 for South East Arts to present On Track at the Headland Writers Festival in Tathra.
On Track is an innovative multimedia performance featuring acclaimed Australian author John Blay alongside Yuin cultural practitioner Warren Foster. It explores the Bundian Way, the ancient Aboriginal pathway linking Mount Kosciuszko to Twofold Bay near Eden.

We’re also providing $10,540 for the Goulburn SteamWorks Creative Program at SteamWorks, a retro futuristic event bringing together fashion, art and music. The Creative Program will deliver a series of arts workshops during the festival. Visitors are invited to dress in steampunk outfits and explore a blend of Victorian era and early industrial innovation.

These projects are funded through the latest round of the Albanese Labor Government’s Festivals Australia program.

The program provides funding to projects giving people in regional and remote Australia the opportunity to experience arts and culture in their local community.

Quotes attributable to Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke:

“Arts festivals are an important part of regional and remote communities; they bring people together and showcase talented local artists.”

“This funding keeps the lifeblood flowing throughout community festivals across Australia.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain:

“The Headland Writers Festival and SteamWorks Goulburn are much-loved community events that bring people together, celebrate local creativity and showcase the unique character of our region.”

“This funding will help talented artists, writers and creatives across south-east NSW share their work with more people, strengthen community connections and enrich the cultural life of our towns.”

Quotes attributable to Goulburn Mulwaree Council Events Team Leader, Angela Remington

“The Festivals Australia funding allows Goulburn Mulwaree Council to deliver the SteamWorks Creative Program, as part of Steampunk Goulburn, featuring a full schedule of bookable and drop-in workshops and activities, led by predominantly local artists, all included with event entry at no additional cost.”

“As the event expands to two days in 2026, this support helps Goulburn Mulwaree Council create a richer, more accessible experience while also showcasing local talent and supporting our regional creative community.”

Quotes attributable to Executive Director of South East Arts, Kate Bradbury

“We’re thrilled to receive Festivals Australia funding for On Track, a major new work to be presented at the 2026 Headland Writers Festival.”

“This investment will bring together exceptional artists to share the story of the Bundian Way through literature, music and First Nations storytelling, showcasing the creative strength and cultural richness of the Far South Coast to local audiences and visitors alike.”

Photo: Kate Bradbury, Executive Director of South East Arts, with Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain