Ms Poole, who has spent much of the past year working on a trial aimed at reinvigorating Ballarat’s CBD with support of the Ballarat’s Arts Foundation (BAF)

Ms Poole said the role brings together all her skills and experience in one package, as well as her passion for creating a better city. “My focus is on creation and making, and supporting those who do the same,” she said. 

“I get excited and enthusiastic about people’s creations and passions – whether they are film producers, visual artists, musicians, app developers or entrepreneurs, and I want to see them succeed.

“I have first-hand experience working within a creative environment and know what it means to put everything on the line for your artistic passion.

“My strategic experience allows me to be across issues, businesses and creative environments to link the best aspects and articulate comprehensive action plans.”

Ms Poole, who has a Bachelor of Economics majoring in Business Law recently undertook research on Ballarat’s future growth and conducted a statistically sound survey to gain insight into the perceptions of local residents about the issues affecting their thoughts on the city’s CBD, including safety, transport and parking; the appearance of the city and the mall; and the future economic sustainability of the city.

City of Ballarat chief executive Justine Linley said Ms Poole’s role would be critical for Ballarat to move forward as a creative city. 

“Tara will engage with the diverse creative sectors across our city as the strategy is rolled out, bringing together industry, government and the community to create measurable initiatives that deliver results in the short, medium and long term,” she said.

“Exhibition opportunities, professional development, and networking will have a central contact point within the City of Ballarat.

“More than ever, we are committing to the growth of our burgeoning arts and culture scene.”

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