Gerringong-based indie rock band The Terrys and Moruya nature writer and novelist Inga Simpson have been awarded funding through Creative Australia.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said she was pleased to support the local arts community and valued the contribution creatives bring to the region.

“This is an investment in local arts projects so that people in our region, and beyond, can have access to unique cultural experiences,” she said.

The Terrys received two grants totalling more than $25,000, through the Contemporary Music Touring Program, and the Music Australia Export Fund – Match – Market & Audience development.

The Terrys released their debut single ‘Video Games’ in June 2020 and quickly built a cult following in the Illawarra region.

They are currently touring capital cities in Australia and New Zealand and will kick off their regional tour in November, which will include a NYE gig at the North Gong Hotel in Wollongong.

“It’s great to see a band that started out in Gerringong making waves across the country and overseas, including appearing on triple j Unearthed,” Mrs Phillips said.

Inga, a creative writer who began her career as a professional writer for government before gaining a PhD in creative writing, was awarded a $50,000 literature grant.

She also holds a PhD, in English literature, which examined the history of Australian nature writing. She won the final Eric Rolls Nature Essay Prize.

Inga featured at the recent Milton-Ulladulla Storyfest event where she showcased her latest novel, The Thinning.

Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has provided record new funding for the cultural sector, with $880 million more committed over the next four years than was promised by the former government.

“I congratulate both the recipients and encourage local audiences and readers to continue supporting Australian music and writers,” Mrs Phillips said.

 Photo: The Terrys