Creative Development Grant program
The Creative Development Grant supports Surf Coast Shire artists and creatives (individuals and groups) to explore new ideas, grow their practice, and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive arts and cultural landscape.
Applications are now closed for 2026.
2026–27 Creative Development Grant Recipients
Congratulations to the recipients of the 2026–27 Creative Development Grant. This year, nine projects have been funded, supporting local artists and creatives to develop new work, build skills and explore new ideas.
- The Pilgrim: Part Two – Creative Development, Astrid Mendez
Research, testing and redevelopment of 'The Pilgrim: Part Two' in response to the artist's current physical capacity.
- Self Editing Debut Novel, Nicole Langtip
Final editing of a debut novel with support from a writing mentor.
- Moderwarre Bluestone School Writer in Residence: Slow Writing Pilot, Nicole Mitchell
A 12-month Writer in Residence program at Modewarre Bluestone School, including writing workshops and a public outcome.
- Martians Interdisciplinary Creative Series, Martians Saloon
A six-month program of artist-led workshops in Deans Marsh, encouraging community participation across different art forms.
- Adult Art Class, Penny Hale
Art workshops in Winchelsea focused on creative expression and sustainable practices, including printing, dyeing and upcycling.
- Hanni & The Mermaid, Hightide Production Co.
Development of a children's television pilot, including a community table read and concept trailer.
- From Non-Fiction to Fiction, Cherie Gilmour
Mentoring to support the development of a debut fiction manuscript.
- Corella's, Coastlines and Country, Britt Silvester
Development of new feather flower and textile works inspired by the Surf Coast landscape, with plans for an exhibition and workshops.
- Winchelsea Music Season, Zinaida Campion
Business mentoring to support a classical music series in Winchelsea and strengthen community participation.
Stay up to date with these projects as they develop over the coming year by following the Arts Development Team on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribing to the Arts Development Monthly eNewsletter.
About Creative Development Grants program
The program provides funding to seed ideas, build skills and support career progression to strengthen the creative industries across the region to thrive.
While exhibitions, performances or public events may be part of a project, they are not essential to its completion.
Applicants are encouraged to meaningfully engage the community during the creative development process or through the outcome to demonstrate a broader impact across the Shire.
Projects should demonstrate clear benefits aligned with the program’s goals and demonstrate benefits consistent with Council’s strategic direction, including:
- Supporting local creative industries to thrive by supporting the development of new skills of capability.
- Support community art and culture, including opportunities for cultural celebration and community events.
- Strengthening the local economy by supporting sustainable and diverse employment, promoting collaboration, and enhancing wellbeing through connection within the local arts and culture ecosystem.
- Creating opportunities and addressing barriers to support innovation, economic growth, and job creation, with attention to the distinct needs of coastal and hinterland communities.
- Improving mental health and social connection by fostering participation, building strong networks.
For full details and eligibility, please read the2026-2027 Creative Development Grant Guidelines(PDF, 1MB).
Interested in applying?
The next round of the Creative Development Grant is expected to open in February 2027. Keep an eye on the Creative Development Grant page for updates.
More information
For more information, please contact the Surf Coast Shire Arts Development Team: