What is the Ulumbarra Foundation?
The Ulumbarra Foundation has been established to realise our vision for Greater Bendigo as regional Australia’s most vibrant performing arts community. A strong and growing performing arts sector will enhance the region’s overall quality of life and culture. Together, with your support, we are attracting more visitors, improving social connection, benefiting local businesses and providing employment opportunities for a diverse array of creative professionals.
Named to recognise Bendigo’s world-class performance theatre, The Ulumbarra Foundation is the only charity in Central Victoria devoted to performing arts.
You can read more about our strategy and objectives.
Why was the Ulumbarra Foundation established?
Despite Bendigo’s rich cultural heritage, wonderful theatres and performing arts groups, funding constraints and fewer opportunities in regional Australia hinder the growth and vibrancy of the performing arts. To overcome this, the Founding 50 raised $100,000 in 2016 to establish the Ulumbarra Foundation, and create vital opportunities for performing arts organisations, artists, and audiences in our region. With your continued support, our programs continue to help realise our vision for Greater Bendigo as regional Australia’s most vibrant performing arts community.
What can I achieve by giving?
When the opportunity arose to contribute to the conversion of Bendigo’s Sandhurst Gaol into a magnificent theatre, retired judge Howard Nathan wanted to contribute to his community. The gaol had been decommissioned and the city council took a visionary approach to developing its arts precinct. The theatre’s beautiful foyer is named in Nathan’s honour.
“I was knocked sideways by the Ulumbarra project. It has lifted the spirit of Bendigo,” he said.
Nathan also kicked off fundraising for the Ulumbarra Foundation with a generous donation.
“And now with the Ulumbarra Foundation we are on to the next exciting stage of boosting our performing arts right across central Victoria. The Foundation provides the vehicle for exploring new artistic endeavours…. it brings heart and soul to the place!” he added.
Nathan notes philanthropy is partly a Jewish obligation, but really, he says with a chuckle, religion has little to do with it: “My moral imperative in life is to die destitute.”
How can I support the Ulumbarra Foundation?
Make a donation
From opera to ballet, plays, musicals and orchestras, philanthropy is the lifeblood of performing arts institutions around the world. It is only with the support of individuals, trusts, foundations and bequests that established performing arts communities are able to survive and produce world class artistry. With more than 5,000 Australian philanthropic organisations distributing some $50 million annually, it is vital that Central Victoria’s performing arts community positions itself to benefit from this generosity. Bendigo has a thriving performing arts community that is as deserving of philanthropic support as its metropolitan counterparts. A donation of any amount can be made here and donations over $2 are tax deductible.
Bequests
Leave a lasting legacy for the performing arts in Greater Bendigo by naming the Ulumbarra Foundation in your will, If you would also like to have a confidential discussion with someone from the Ulumbarra Foundation about your plans for leaving a remembrance, or to discuss how your gift might be used, email info@ulumbarrafoundation.org.au
What are the Ulumbarra Foundation’s programs?
The Ulumbarra Foundation supports the performing arts community in Greater Bendigo through its programs.
Performing Arts Power-Up
The Ulumbarra Foundation’s Performing Arts Power-up grants program has been created to support the City of Greater Bendigo’s performing arts organisations, through two rounds of funding of up to $5000 per round. Applications must be prepared in accordance with these Application Guidelines and only online applications will be accepted.
Mentor Program
The Performing Arts Mentor Program assists people in the community who are interested in pursuing a career or deepening their passion for the performing arts. The program connects successful candidates with experienced industry professionals, offering insights into the practicalities of building a career and guidance in navigating potential challenges.
Community Connections
The Community Connections program provides a quality performing arts experience to individuals who may not have otherwise been able to attend a performance, due to social or economic disadvantage, or distance.
Holsworth Creative Arts Bursary
The Ulumbarra Foundation has established a scholarship opportunity for students attending the Academy of Creative Arts, thanks to the generous support of the Holsworth Family. The Holsworth Creative Arts Bursary provides financial support to students seeking assistance in developing their artistry and career in the creative arts.
Venue Capability Grants
Through our strategic partnerships with performing arts venues, the Ulumbarra Foundation understands the needs of venues and helps secure funding for projects which enhance venue capability and improve the audience experience.