Parados Education

Call for Young Artists in Gympie

Earth & Ocean Storytellers – Cooloola Region

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Expressions of Interest are now open for young people aged 12–16 years living in the Gympie region to participate in Earth & Ocean Storytellers — a 6-month creative development program connecting youth with First Nations knowledge holders, environmental custodians, and professional artists.

Through guided on-Country experiences in the Cooloola region, participants will deepen their understanding of caring for land and sea while developing original performance works inspired by place, culture, and environmental responsibility. This sustained, collaborative arts program culminates in a public presentation.

 

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be aged 12–16 years at program commencement
   

• Be a resident of the Gympie Regional Council area
   

• Demonstrate interest in storytelling, performance, music, movement, visual arts, or environmental care
   

• Commit to the full 6-month program, including workshops, on-Country learning days, rehearsals, and public presentation
   

• Provide evidence of commitment (e.g., examples of prior participation in creative projects, school or community activities)
   

• Show willingness to collaborate respectfully and engage with cultural protocols
   

• Grant permission for photos and videos to be taken for documentation, promotion, and storytelling purposes
   

Young people from diverse learning backgrounds, including independent and home-based education, are encouraged to apply.

 

What Participants Will Gain

• Mentorship from professional artists and cultural knowledge holders
   

• Experience creating and presenting original work for public audiences
   

• Skills in performance-making, collaboration, and creative expression
   

• A strengthened connection to place and environmental stewardship
   

• Confidence as emerging regional artists and storytellers
   

 

Program Commitment

The program runs from late June to November 2026. Regular attendance and active participation are essential. Specific session dates will be provided upon acceptance.

 

How to Apply

Submit:

• A short written or video expression of interest (max 300 words or 2 minutes)
   

• A brief outline of your creative interests
   

• Confirmation of age and Gympie region residency
   

• Evidence of commitment to creative participation
   

• Parent/guardian consent (for applicants under 18), including photo/video permission
   

Applications close: April 1st, 2026
Submit to: Parados Education Board via email, hello@parados-productions.org

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