Hear from past Outback Prac students
From supporting festivals and community arts projects to developing professional skills alongside experienced arts workers, Outback Prac gives students the opportunity to step outside the classroom and into the heart of regional Western Australia.
Watch and read the stories below and hear how students have built confidence, expanded their networks and discovered new possibilities for their future careers in the arts.
Mahaan’s experience at the Cannery Arts Centre (Esperance)
“I felt so welcomed during my week at the Cannery Arts Centre. I learned so much about what goes into running an arts organisation, from the hands‑on experience of installing and deinstalling gallery exhibitions to being included in financial conversations and understanding what it takes to keep such a beautiful art space alive. I am so grateful for the insight and experience.”
Lucy’s experience at The Junction Co. (Pilbara)
“Junction Co were incredibly welcoming and focused on creating real engagement within the community. Port Hedland is a diverse community with both permanent and transient mining residents – it was interesting to see how this town operates in creating a sense of place. I was really intrigued by how an arts center could operate in what I knew as a mining town, what I found was passion and care for the community and a willingness to create unique opportunities for residents to encounter art.
I also had the opportunity to visit Karratha as part of the Red Earth Arts festival; this was an amazing last-minute opportunity that allowed me to see some more of the region. It was inspiring to see the arts Centre in Karratha, and I was surprised by how much is out there! This challenged my perception of regional arts; I was so inspired by the go getter energy out there. I would have stayed longer if possible!
Take any opportunity you can to see something different. Be curious and talk to people in the community about what they need. Go even if you haven’t heard much about the place, you will learn so much!”
Lily’s Experience at Arts Narrogin (Wheatbelt)
“The Regional Arts Outback Prac initiative has genuinely been a life-changing experience and one I will never forget. My placement at Arts Narrogin showed me just how valuable and rewarding working in regional arts can be, and I would genuinely love the opportunity to return in the future.”