Council News

Central Coast Council is pleased to announce that the Creative Journey open studio Art Trail is set to return over June long weekend, with expressions of interest (EOI) now open for local artists, makers and creative collectives.Led by Council, Creative Journey is an initiative that celebrates the region’s diverse and vibrant creative community by inviting the public into the working spaces of local creatives.Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said the return of the Creative Journey Art Trail reflects the strength and momentum of the region’s creative sector.“The Creative Journey Art Trail event is a wonderful celebration of the artistic talent that thrives across our region,” Mayor McKinna said.“Opening studios to the public not only showcases the incredible work of our artists but also strengthens community connection and supports the growth of our cultural economy.

The Creative Journey Art Trail is back for 2026! Expressions of Interest are now open for Creative Journey Art Trail 2026, a Council-led open studio art trail celebrating the diverse and vibrant creative community on the Coast.Following a successful inaugural year, Creative Journey returns in 2026, inviting local artists, makers and creative collectives to open their studios and creative spaces to the public and showcase their work as part of a region wide cultural experience.The Creative Journey trail will take place across the Central Coast from Saturday 6 - Monday 8 June 2026.About Creative JourneyCreative Journey is an initiative of Central Coast Council that supports local visual artists and makers by providing a platform to:Showcase their work and creative spacesConnect with visitors and the local communityIncrease visibility and professional opportunitiesContribute to a growing regional cultural programThe open studio trail encourages residents and visitors to explore the Central Coast, discover local creativity and engage directly with artists in their working environments.Who Can ApplyExpressions of Interest are open to:Visual artistsDesignersMakersCreative collectivesApplicants must have a studio or creative space located on the Central Coast and be available to participate during the Creative Journey trail dates.Both emerging and established creatives are encouraged to apply.What Participation InvolvesSuccessful applicants will be invited to:Open their studio or creative space to the public during the trailBe included in Council led marketing and promotional activityFeature on the Creative Journey trail map and digital platformsCouncil will support the program through coordinated promotion across Council and Love Central Coast channels.How to ApplyTo apply, please:Review the eligibility criteria and program informationComplete the online Expression of Interest formKey DatesEOI applications open:

I believe that developing strong partnerships is crucial for enabling growth and prosperity.Since I became Mayor, we’ve partnered with the NSW Government to secure funding for even more community-building projects.And I’m proud of our new partnership with Lake Macquarie City Council that will strengthen both our voices for regional growth. Recently, Council supported Lake Macquarie’s motion that calls on the Australian Government to progress the Newcastle to Sydney High Speed Rail route.

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, Central Coast Council gives notice that it proposes to lease out part of 10B Russell Drysdale Street, EAST GOSFORD for the purpose of operating a community-based handweaving, spinning and textile arts guild.The land will be leased to Central Coast Handweavers Spinners and Textile Arts Guild Inc for a period of five (5) years.Written submissions may be made to Central Coast Council. In your submission, please quote the following reference – F2020/00356 You can send your submission via email to ask@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.