The highly acclaimed annual ‘open air’ classical music event, Opera in the Paddock, had secured $40,000 in funding from the NSW Government for the next three years.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall said that he had been pressing the case for support from the State Government with Arts and Tourism Minister George Souris and was very pleased with the outcome.
“Opera in the Paddock is a great regional event that attracts locals and visitors alike, so it’s heartening to know that this funding will secure the event’s viability over the next three years,” Mr Marshall said.
“The event attracts visitors from all over Australia who come to our beautiful region to enjoy the talents of some of the country’s finest singers and instrumentalists.”
The brainchild of opera singer Peta Blyth OAM, Opera in the Paddock was first held in 2002 on the family property ‘Mimosa’ at Delungra, 25 kilometres west of Inverell.
Ms Blyth said it was wonderful to have the support from Destination NSW to employ personnel to grow the event.
“We will continue to produce a first-class event and bring to the region professional musicians and artists,” Ms Blyth said.
Mr Marshall said Opera in the Paddock had become a landmark event for the region and was an important contributor to the local economy, estimated to deliver more than $1.4 million in economic benefit to the region from 2014 to 2016.
