The Cultural Development Network is hosting a major conference in Melbourne, Australia in December 2004 to explore the potential of cultural development processes in local government community strengthening programs. Proposals for papers and workshops are invited by March 5, 2004 from: - Public policy makers across all tiers of government - Executive Managers in Local Government across all departments and disciplines - Elected representatives in local government - Local Government arts and cultural development managers and officers - Local Government strategic, physical and social planners - Local Government health and community Services managers and officers - Local Government Library Services managers and officers - Academics in cultural studies, social policy and human services sectors - Independent commentators on popular culture, cultural democracy and social justice - Citizens leading positive change in their own communities - Artists from all art forms and all backgrounds working with communities - Non government agencies and associations engaged in community cultural development The conference themes include: - A question of values – culture, inclusion, diversity, and democracy - Creativity and community engagement – from passive to active participation - Indigenous culture – land culture and community - Cultural policy and the ‘triple bottom line’ – the challenge of integration - Interrogating the Arts / Culture split - Social and Cultural: same difference? - Place management, urban design and neighbourhood renewal - Festivals and events – balancing cultural and economic imperatives - Yesterday’s news – animating heritage today - Artist as catalyst for environmental sustainability Please ensure papers do not exceed one A4 page and feature a short summary of the topic, program or case study to be presented; a brief biography of presenters involved; and full contact details. Innovative presentations including exhibitions, performances etc will be considered. Please send proposals (and general enquiries about this event) by March 5 to: Judy Spokes Cultural Development Network C /- GPO Box 1603 M Melbourne, 3001 Email: judspo@melbourne.vic.gov.au Ph: (03) 9658 8850