Local multidisciplinary artist, Hayley Egan was announced on 23 February 2026 as being one of the successful recipients of the NSW Government’s Next Steps professional development funding program.
The funding, delivered through Create NSW, aims to support emerging and established artists to expand their creative practice, build new skills, and strengthen professional networks across Australia and internationally.
The Next Steps initiative awarded grants of up to $10,000 to 44 artists and creative workers across diverse artforms including visual arts, theatre, literature, dance, music and cultural practice. The program encourages artistic growth through mentorships, residencies and research opportunities designed to propel careers to the next level. More than one-third of the successful applicants are based in regional NSW, highlighting the rich cultural contributions of creatives from outside metropolitan centres.
Based on Gumbaynggirr land in Bellingen, Hayley Egan is well known for her community-centred arts practice that uses singing, storytelling and collaborative making to build connection and resilience. Her work prioritises accessibility, cultural responsiveness and sustained engagement, with weekly groups such as The Bellingen Singers and Harmonia Singing Circle offering creative participation for people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Next Steps funding will enable Egan to undertake advanced vocal leadership training with Guillermo Rozenthuler in London, focusing on circle singing and collaborative vocal improvisation techniques. The opportunity will further develop her artistic research and community projects, strengthening the creative ecology of the Mid North Coast and beyond. This achievement not only recognises her past contributions but also supports her ongoing commitment to inclusive, participatory art-making that brings people together.
Image: Hayley Egan with Bellingen Singers at Taranta Festival. Photo by Chasing Sunflowers Photography.