The Orbost Arts Centre (OAC) is making an urgent appeal to the community for help in securing its future as the East Gippsland Shire Council prepares its 2026-27 annual budget.
With the council’s budget response deadline fast approaching on Monday, March 9, the centre’s committee is urging residents, visitors and art lovers to submit letters of support to the shire, advocating for the recurrent funding necessary to maintain its essential staff.
Last year, the OAC was provided a one-off grant of $45,000, which funded two vital part-time positions: a 10-hour-per-week coordinator and a 10-hour-per-week administrator.
While the committee originally requested $70,000 in recurrent (ongoing) funding
to provide long-term operational stability, that request was unsuccessful, leaving the centre to rely on temporary grants and
volunteer power.
Despite operating with a skeleton staff, the OAC has delivered a vibrant and diverse program over the 2025–26 period, including performing arts, exhibitions, workshops, forums and community meetings.
The committee credits the dedication of its volunteers – who manage everything from reception and sales to cleaning – for keeping the facility a welcoming space for the region.
These volunteers serve as ambassadors
for the town seven days a week, from
10am to 3pm.
“The work of our staff and our volunteers is essential to keeping the Orbost Arts Centre operational,” the committee stated.
“It is a fabulous community service that fosters friendships and common goals for our town and the wider region.”
The OAC is calling on anyone who has enjoyed an exhibition or event to ask the shire to recognise the merit of the facility and fund it accordingly.
Specifically, they are asking for the shire to consider a recurrent funding model rather than one-off grants to ensure the centre’s doors remain open.
Community members can support the cause by emailing a letter to the East Gippsland Shire and copying the arts centre committee.
Support letter templates are available at the centre’s front desk for those who need assistance drafting their message.
