The notion that, fostering creativity in our own regional people has real and long lasting merit, is irresistible. Mid Western Regional Council had the prescience to recognise many years ago that to accelerate the skills and sustain the passion for sports in our up-and-coming sports men and women, we needed to create the physical environment to help them achieve their full potential. Glen Willow has opened up extraordinary possibilities and opportunities as a result.

The argument for establishing a regional arts facility is little different. 

A regional art gallery and cultural centre will provide another rich layer of experience for those visiting our region. Mudgee needs to foster and provide a showcase space for our people irrespective of their age or artistic inclination. Painting, photography, sculpture, digital media, performance, film... the possibilities are as exciting as they are endless.

There’s a sound economic rationale behind investing in a regional gallery. 

A well managed space will attract exhibitions from around the country and dare I say, from around the world. An international exhibition on its trans-Australian tour will draw visitors to our region as will any home grown inventive offering that breaks parity with other displays around New South Wales.

For me, the best reason to push ahead with a gallery and cultural centre is this. 

A Regional Gallery based in Mudgee might just prove to be the jewel in the crown of what most outsiders see as one of the most cosmopolitan towns in the country.