THE Bank Art Museum Moree has confirmed it was unsuccessful in the most recent Create NSW funding round.
As an independent regional gallery, the decision has a significant impact at a time when the gallery is expanding its cultural offer for locals as well as visitors and tourists to Moree.
Board chair, Annabelle Simpson, said BAMM plays a vital role in community life and delivers exhibitions, education programs, and cultural experiences that build pride, connection and identity.
“BAMM is proudly independent. That independence allows us to respond directly to our community, but it also means the impact of missing out on this funding is keenly felt,” Mrs Simpson said.
“We remain committed to delivering quality exhibitions and programs and will continue seeking support to ensure they thrive.”
Moree Plains Sire mayor, Susannah Pearse, emphasised the gallery’s importance to the town’s identity.
“BAMM is a massive asset to Moree and the region. It is a gallery that punches well above its weight and delivers so much to our community,” Cr Pearse said.
“As such, in June this year, Moree Plains Shire Council resolved to enter into another five-year agreement to support BAMM.
“The reduction in NSW Government funding is a huge blow. It will result in a drop in what BAMM can provide to our community,” she said.
BAMM director, Rosie Dennis, said the outcome will not slow momentum. Since Ms Dennis began in the role of director last September, BAMM has attracted nearly 10,000 visitors.
“Our 2025 program has featured local, national and international exhibitions and a world-class concert series featuring Simon Tedeschi, Claire Edwards and William Barton,” Ms Dennis said.
“Investment from the State Government is critical to ensure access and equity to high quality art and culture experience remains available to all Australians, regardless of your postcode.”
Local Member for Northern Tablelands, Brendan Moylan, voiced his frustration.
“The Bank Art Museum Moree plays an important role in preserving the region’s cultural history and what they were asking for is a drop in the ocean in the grand scheme of things,” Mr Moylan said.
Despite the setback, BAMM will continue delivering programs while actively seeking alternative funding to ensure the gallery continues to deliver a high calibre cultural programs for the region.
