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As 2025 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary journey I’ve had with Arts Northern Rivers. This message is a little different from those I’ve written in the past, it will be my final end-of-year note as Executive Director. After much thought and with a full heart, I’ve made the decision to step down from the role in February. It’s never easy to say goodbye to something you love, but I feel incredibly fortunate to be leaving at a time when the organisation is strong, vibrant, and ready for its next chapter.

Arts Northern Rivers is delighted to announce the appointment of Rosie Dennis as its new Executive Director. Rosie brings more than two decades of leadership experience within Australia’s cultural sector. Read more about Rosie.

As the rain poured down at Bangalow A&I Hall, arts leaders gathered to reflect on funding outcomes and imagine new ways to work together. Storm season feels symbolic of our times; uncertainty, shifting winds, and yet signs of growth beneath the surface. From shared spaces to cross-sector partnerships and new collaborations, green shoots are emerging across our creative ecosystem. Read Tandi’s full reflection on the challenges, opportunities, and what we can nurture together.

Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali has received the prestigious IMAGinE Award for Exhibition Projects – Galleries (Medium), honouring its profound impact on cultural reclamation and community connection. This landmark exhibition returned ancestral woven objects to Bundjalung Country for the first time in over a century, sparking a revival of weaving traditions across the Northern Rivers. Explore how regional galleries, First Nations artists, and communities came together to weave stories of resilience, memory, and cultural continuity.

We’re proud to share that Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali has been nominated for the 2025 IMAGinE Awards, recognising the strength, creativity, and cultural continuity of Bundjalung weavers across our region.

Jane announced her departure as CEO of Arts Northern Rivers in early 2026, after leading the organisation since 2021 through major milestones including flood recovery efforts, national partnerships, and the landmark Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali project. Read her statement where she reflects on these achievements and thanks the sector for its collaboration and support.

softwash launches as part of Arts Northern Rivers’ Tweed Spaces program with Full Foam Rinse and Spin, a free afternoon of live art and performance at the Tweed Regional Museum Learning Site.

After moving audiences in Grafton and Tweed Heads, the celebrated touring exhibition Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali Exhibition opens its final season at Lismore Regional Gallery from 13 September to 9 November 2025.