Lighthouse needs help to keep shining

POINT Lonsdale’s Lighthouse Arts Collective (LAC) is facing an uncertain future due to lost revenue during the pandemic, and has launched a fundraiser in the hopes of brighter times ahead.

The collective has grown a dedicated following, particularly thanks to its popular live music offerings, but the impacts of COVID-19 has decimated its program.

LAC chair Emma Crofts said the collective had hosted 50 events and welcomed more than 4,000 people through the doors of the New Hall space since LAC began four years ago.

“We’ve provided paid work for 100 artists in our year-round program of live music, theatre, visual arts, film, and poetry,” she said.

“The loss of almost 24 months of event revenue is a huge setback, but the thought of losing what we have built with our community over the last four years is heartbreaking.”

The collective has launched the Light Up Lighthouse campaign, and aims to raise $13,000 to cover basic annual operational costs by December 31 to stay afloat.

“There’s no denying that the last two years has ripped the belly out of our creative program,” LAC chair Suzie Wyllie said.

“The pandemic quickly dimmed our light, it’s been devastating for our programmed artists and our passionate patrons.

“We do have plans for 2022 in the works, with some really exciting local collaborations, but the reality is that without a groundswell of community support, delivering our program won’t be possible.”

Tributes to LAC’s work are coming in, both locally and interstate.

“When I leave New Hall I leave with a warm feeling knowing I’ll be back soon,” Bellarine Pilates owner Lucia Huma said.

“I can honestly say that in the 15 years I’ve lived in Point Lonsdale I finally feel there is a space and community that could forever be a part of my life.”

Brisbane musician Mckisco said New Hall was the kind of room she dreamt of playing and recording in with its natural light and reverb.

“The album came easily there and I returned later to play the music live as part of a festival and the feeling remained.

“I’m so grateful to have experienced the place, and the incredible community surrounding it.”

To make a tax-deductible donation to Light Up Lighthouse, head to the Lighthouse Arts Collective.