Ipswich venue Banshees Bar and Artspace has received much-needed funding through Arts Queensland’s Live Music Support Program.

The much-loved local venue received $43,113 to support operations through the challenges of COVID-19.

The Live Music Support Program is part of the Queensland Government's Arts and Cultural Recovery Package of $22.5 million over two years to stabilise Queensland’s arts companies, support employment for artists and arts workers and deliver COVID-safe cultural experiences for Queensland audiences.

Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said that she welcomes investment in the Ipswich Arts and Culture industries.

“It’s fantastic to see a local venue supported by our government through the successful Live Music Support Program.

“This funding will mean that Banshees will be able to continue offering a unique and vibrant range of music and contemporary art while supporting newly emerging and established artists.

“I was happy to provide a letter of support for their application, and I was so pleased to see them access the funding they need.

“Our fantastic health response has meant that local businesses, venues and organisations can return to operation faster, and I want to thank everyone who has done the right thing in keeping our community safe from COVID-19.”

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to supporting Arts and Culture operators during our economic recovery from COVID-19 through significant financial support.

“We want to see that money in the pockets of artists, venues and cultural organisations who need it, so I’m glad that so many are making use of the range of grants available.”

Owners Nina and Ken Weaver said that the funding couldn’t have come at a better time.

“We’re really grateful for the support we’ve received from Arts Queensland and the Queensland Government,” they said.

“The grant we received ensured that we could keep our staff, pay some of our invoices, and keep live original music artists performing in Ipswich.

“If lockdowns or further restrictions are implemented in the future keeping a live music venue financially afloat will remain incredibly difficult.

“The situation with COVID-19 can change quickly, so it’s reassuring to know we have received Queensland Government support and that they may assist again if we need it.

“We’re proud to do our part in supporting local musicians and performers by providing them with a venue, and this grant has allowed us to keep doing just that.

“We’re really lucky to have such an enthusiastic Ipswich and surrounds community supporting us each and every week.”

Through the Live Music Support Program, the Palaszczuk Government has been able to provide Queensland-based live music venues with one-off grants to offset revenue losses and stabilise business operations during and beyond COVID-19 related restrictions on mass gatherings.

For more information about the grants program, visit the Arts Queensland website: https://www.arts.qld.gov.au/aq-funding/live-music-support-program