From late January through to mid March 2009 the City of Busselton conducted a Cultural Discovery Survey inviting the community to contribute towards the Local Cultural Planning Strategy.  Nearly 400 surveys were submitted both online and via distribution points throughout the Shire. The responses will assist in identifying and mapping: existing and future public art sites; places; experiences and activities that are of cultural significance to the Shire.

The Strategy aims to address: issues surrounding lifestyle and community values by incorporating arts and culture into land use planning; supporting existing and additional cultural sites; infrastructure and experiences.

A small group of 9 - 11 year olds participated through a classroom exercise and provided some colourful drawings and thoughtful comments about their special places in the Shire... "Old Butter Factory. Because I like seeing the olden day stuff".

44% of the respondents were aged 12-18 years old and identified:

• Music, outdoor activity/events and film as their main areas of interest;
• The Busselton Jetty and surrounds were considered one of the most special places in the Shire followed closely by local beaches "Because it brings me and my dad closer" (Jetty);
• They also expressed an interest in ‘functional art' and appreciation of youth art with a keen interest in venues/sites that could be used for physical activities.

6% of respondents were aged 18-29 and identified:

• Beaches as the most special place in the Shire along with parks. Some of the reasons included ‘serenity', ‘‘water activities', ‘beauty', ‘nature', ‘fresh air', ‘scenery', ‘family and friends', ‘flora and fauna'. "I grew up with my Dad on the ocean - He was a fisherman. It's a part of me".
• 61% from this age group agreed that public art adds value to the City of Busselton
• The jetty area was identified as an existing and future public art site.

23% were aged 30 - 49 and  identified:

• The jetty received strong support along with parks and walk trails/paths
• 83% of this age group said they would attend or participate in more cultural activities if there was more variety in the Shire.

50-64 year olds (14%) identified outdoor activity/events and music ranked highest in areas of interest for and the 65+ age group (13%) selected history, craft, music and new media (internet ).

More information about the Local Cultural Planning Strategy and survey results can be found at www.busselton.wa.gov.au/tps/cultural.

Media enquiries can be directed to the City of Busselton's Public Relations Officer, Helena Webb on 97810446 or helena.webb@busselton.wa.gov.au