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Cultural Activities Gaining Momentum
5 August 2006
Since the University opened it has directly and indirectly injected hundreds of millions of dollars into the regional economy. Increasing numbers of students from every shire benefit from their local University, and we are totally committed to further catalysing economic development that will benefit all shires. We are currently quantifying more precisely economic impact, but it will certainly indicate that the University is one of the greatest economic generators the Coast would have attracted.
That economic dimension is, of course, only one facet of our contribution in addition to our academic programs.
Another dimension of our regional contribution is cultural.
Earlier this week the Australian String Quartet performed to over 200 people. It was the fifth of their annual appearances here, and they attract as large an audience here as they do even in major cities, indicating clearly the need for dedicated concert venues for the Coast's growing, and increasingly discerning population.
The demand for cultural interest is also reflected in attendances at the Art Gallery Exhibitions. The growing numbers of visitors make it one of Queensland's pre-eminent regional galleries.
I have also received the most recent evaluation for the youth literature festival, 'Voices on the Coast', which 4500 students eagerly await annually, and over 600 community members attend. It is now in its eleventh year.
There are, of course, many other cultural activities that the University also supports, such as the multi-cultural festival 'Festuri'.
All of these activities are supported strongly by an increasingly helpful and enthusiastic range of supporters. Organisations such as Immanuel College started 'Voices on the Coast' and we now partner with them. Coastline BMW supports the Gallery. Noosa Blue Resort supports the concerts. Individuals, too many to mention, have also provided invaluable support.
With the thousands of supporters and volunteers we now have, the momentum for further success is impressive. Success is building more success and support from a community that acknowledges the value of their local University.
Professor Paul Thomas is Vice-Chancellor of University of the Sunshine Coast