Casey mayor Colin Butler presents Susan Bergman with the inaugural Lindsay King Arts initiative award.By Jim Mynard
SUSAN Bergman and the late George Stephens have shared the inaugural Lindsay King Arts Initiative Award.
The award was presented to Ms Bergman during the Casey Winter Arts Festival launch at Fountain Gate Hotel.
Mr Stephens died over the weekend.
Casey mayor Colin Butler said the award was given in memory of Lindsay King, who contributed much to the City of Casey in local history, tourism and culture.
“Sadly we marked his passing in February this year,” he said.
Mr King was well known as the town crier, the coordinator of the Pioneers Bush Band and Skills group, and as one of the organisers of many Australia Day celebrations in Cranbourne.
“He made his skills and abilities available to many organisations, all with the common goal of improving his community culturally,” Cr Butler said.
“It is in this spirit that we have two winners sharing the very first Lindsay King Arts Initiative Award in 2007.
“The award goes to Susan Bergman for her initiative with The Factory – Rehearsal Centre for the Arts.
“It is thanks to Susan Bergman’s vision of a dedicated rehearsal space in Casey, and her key role on the Factory Steering Group, that this facility is today a reality.
“As a founding member of the Casey Arts and Cultural Reference Group, honorary manager of the Cranbourne Community Theatre, a previous winner of a City of Casey Volunteer Award, and close associate of Lady Uppity Crust, Susan Bergman is one of the best-known members of the Casey arts community.”
Cr Butler said the award was given to Mr Stephens for his initiative in forming the Cranbourne Lions Concert Band in 1985.
“George was the founding member of the band and continued his involvement and support for more than 20 years,” he said.
