Picton, NSW — The magnificent new Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre was abuzz with conversation as guests gathered for Southern Tablelands Arts’ (STA) 2025 Annual General Meeting. With morning tea setting the scene for connection, the formal proceedings that followed celebrated a year of bold creative achievement and strong community leadership.

The AGM, opened officially by STA President Louise Wakefield at 11:00am, moved through the agenda; from the adoption of minutes from last years AGM to the presentation and acceptance of the President’s Report, Financial Statements, and Annual Report, the meeting reflected a strong and successful year for the organisation.

Treasurer Joanne McCauley reported a sound financial position, underpinned by a year of energetic programming and artistic partnerships. President Wakefield reflected on highlights from the year, with a particular emphasis on the growing reach of STA’s regional programs and the strength of community support.

A highlight of the meeting was the premiere screening of The STA Story, a new short film produced by Reload Productions, which captured the diverse ways STA supports the Creative Sector and wider community across the STA Region.

The President’s Awards for Creative Merit were presented to three exceptional contributors to regional arts:

• Sue Wallace and Steve Coupe, the powerhouse duo behind ImaginArta Australian Puppet Centre, were honoured for over a decade of puppetry excellence and community engagement. Their work was recently showcased in a retrospective exhibition at Connect@Gunning Station and Moss Vale’s Atrium Gallery. As they prepare for their final ImaginArta performance on Sunday 1 June, STA celebrates their legacy and looks forward to their next creative chapter.
• Carol Divall, curator and textile artist at Goulburn’s Gallery on Track, was also recognised for her tireless work programming monthly exhibitions and supporting emerging artists. Her commitment to the arts has made the gallery a much-loved hub for local talent.

The event concluded with a heartfelt thank you and renewed energy for the creative year ahead. The newly elected STA board was announced, featuring:

• President – Louise Wakefield
• Vice President – Mark Bradbury
• Treasurer – Joanne McCauley
• Secretary & Public Officer – Mandy McDonald
• Ordinary Members – Cecilia McKenzie, Cath Brennan, Robyn Skyes, Garth Prentice

A huge acknowledgment goes out to two retiring Board members who left the Board at the AGM.

After a years’ service Patrick Nellestein steps away from his role on the Board to concentrate on this Music and cultural hub in Tahmoor and Moss Vale. We thank Pat for his energy and creative contribution.

Rob Moran also left the Board at the AGM after ten years of service. Rob was the Vice Chair for many years and in many ways helped shape the organisation STA is today. Rob continues to be involved through his role at Wollondilly Shire Council. Rob was responsible for many amazing developments at STA but perhaps the one with the strongest legacy is the ongoing Wollondilly Waste to Art Prize. A magnificent project that grows each year and supports the creation of sustainable works using waste materials. It will take a bit of getting used to not having Rob on the Board after such a long dedicated service.

With the new Board at the helm, Southern Tablelands Arts will continue to lead with passion, creativity and a commitment to building an inclusive cultural landscape.

All official documents, including the Agenda, Minutes, Annual Report, and Audited Financial Statements, are available at www.southerntablelandsarts.com.au.

Following the formal business of the AGM the new board and STA Delegates were treated to their first training session with a performance of “Stages of Empathy” by Rebus Theatre.

This interactive production engaged the audience in a meaningful exploration of accessibility and inclusion through real-life scenarios drawn from community consultations. Performed by Rebus’ talented and diverse ensemble, the session invited attendees to step into others’ shoes—literally and metaphorically—and consider practical strategies to make workplaces and communities more inclusive for people with disability.

STA will be working with Rebus over the coming months to offer Stages of Empathy performative training sessions in other locations across the STA region.