Bringing local creatives together, sparking new connections and creating opportunities for collaboration.
In July 2026, Regional Arts Victoria brought 39 creatives, artists, organisations and community members together for a Creative Exchange in Victoria’s South West.
Held in a relaxed and welcoming environment, the event was designed to make space for something that can be difficult to find in regional communities: time to connect, share ideas, exchange knowledge and discover what others are doing locally.
And the connections made on the day are already making a difference.
Making connections that continue beyond the event
For many participants, Creative Exchange was an opportunity to meet people they may not otherwise have crossed paths with – from artists and performers to local government, TAFE, NDIS providers, community organisations and event organisers.
100% of survey respondents made a new connection and grew their professional networks.
The event also generated 29 ‘offers’ and ‘asks’ through the Creative Exchange wall, creating a snapshot of the skills, ideas, resources and opportunities already available within the local creative community.
For Emma, attending an event on her own can be challenging, but Creative Exchange gave her the confidence and motivation to take that step. She left planning to connect with a TAFE representative about a potential collaboration and said she felt “more motivated after attending.”
For Helen Bunyon, the event resulted in new contacts, a connection with a young DJ for future opportunities, and several follow-up actions to support other creatives in the community.
And for Jack Cooling, new relationships made on the day have already opened up potential future DJ opportunities.
Sharing knowledge and discovering opportunities
Creative Exchange wasn’t just about meeting people – it was also about sharing the knowledge and resources that can help regional creatives build their practices.
92% of respondents gained new information and knowledge, while the same percentage said they increased their awareness of local creatives, organisations and available support.
Participants shared practical advice about everything from technology and professional development to grants, business support and local opportunities.
Martin Sullivan, for example, received practical IT advice from fellow participant Gareth Colliton and left with “some useful follow ups.” Jenna Winnen discovered a grant opportunity that could support her professional development through a conversation with another participant.
The event also helped connect people with broader regional initiatives, with almost a third of respondents saying they had not previously heard of the South West Creative Industries Strategy.
From conversations to collaboration
Perhaps most importantly, 85% of respondents identified a new project or collaboration opportunity as a result of attending.
These opportunities crossed disciplines, organisations and generations – demonstrating the value of creating spaces where people can discover what others are working on and consider what might be possible together.
Rory Batten connected with an NDIS provider who may be able to support future events and said he now feels more confident reaching out to people he met if he needs additional help.
Gus Franklin registered with Moyne’s Creative Directory and is exploring establishing a non-profit entity, while also considering becoming a RAV Member. He described leaving the event feeling “inspired and heartened that there is a groundswell of action and group activity coming together in this community.”
For Gareth Colliton, the small and intimate format was particularly valuable, providing space for meaningful conversations and helping strengthen local relationships.
“It was a small and intimate event, which facilitated meaningful conversations and valuable connections. It’s important to have a mix of big gigs and little catchups.”
A stronger, more connected creative community
The response to Creative Exchange was overwhelmingly positive, with 100% of respondents rating the event Very Good or Excellent.
But perhaps the clearest measure of its impact is how participants described feeling afterwards: more connected, supported and motivated.
One participant called it “a great opportunity to have like-minded creatives in a space together”, while another valued the chance to collaborate in a relaxed atmosphere, with making connections the primary focus.
For Sylvia Convey, simply bringing creative people together made a difference. She left feeling “motivated”.
Creative Exchange demonstrated that strengthening a regional creative ecosystem doesn’t always require a big stage or a major event. Sometimes, it starts with bringing the right people into the same room, creating space for conversation, and giving them the opportunity to discover what they can offer one another.
The conversations, follow-ups and collaborations sparked in July will continue well beyond the event – helping build a more connected, supported and active creative community across the South West.
Images: Attendees at Creative Exchange in July 2026, photograph: André Elhay, courtesy of Warrnambool City Council
This micro-event was held by Regional Arts Victoria in partnership with Neil Porter Legacy, thanks to funding from the Fletcher Jones Family Foundations and support from Warrnambool City Council/Lighthouse Theatre.
It’s part of regional efforts to support and connect the region’s creative sector through the South West Creative Industries Strategy and through each partner’s efforts to support their local creatives.
