Coal Loader Artist's Studio

Overview

North Sydney Council is committed to supporting a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable cultural community by providing accessible, affordable and supportive spaces for creative development and production. The North Sydney Creative Spaces program aims to :

• Support artists at all stages of their careers, across a range of creative disciplines by providing affordable studios and spaces for creative production
• Celebrate North Sydney’s cultural diversity, unique heritage and stories and amplify First Nations voices
• Strengthen community connection by encouraging the sharing of creative processes and outcomes with the public

Coal Loader Artist's Studio

The Coal Loader Artist's Studio is located in one of the out-building on the grounds of the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability at Balls Head Rd, Waverton on the land of the Cammerygal People. There is one studio space available approx 4m x 4m in size. While the studio space is undercover it is part of a row of out-buildings that were formerly workshops and therefore retains is rustic industrial architecture and charm, the floor is slightly uneven in places. Prospective applicants should consider the suitability of the space to their creative practice before applying.

Facilities include

• use of the lockable workshop studio space
• access to power
• ample daylight
• a trestle table, chair, small storage space

Facilities do not include:

• wi-fi or internet access
• ‘wash up’ space

Shared spaces

• A public toilet is available next to the studio and is open 8am-6pm 7 days per week
• There is one unisex accessible toilet, shower and baby change room located in the Genia McCaffery Centre open 8am-6pm 7 days per week
• A communal kitchenette in the Genia McCaffery Centre Monday-Friday 9am-4pm and Saturday 10am-4pm (closed public holidays)

Permitted art forms

Applications are welcome from creative practitioners working across a range of disciplines. While all art forms will be considered, the following are not permitted in Council operated spaces:  

• use of toxic or hazardous materials
• materials or processes that require extraction fans
• materials or processes that result in hazardous waste
• processes, tools, equipment that emit excessive noise

Fees and tenancy conditions

Successful applicants are required to enter into a licence agreement that sets out the terms and conditions of the tenancy.

• Studios are offered for 6 month tenancy residency commencing October 2025
• Studio hire is $20 per week payable in 2 instalments
• Successful applicants will require their public liability insurance of $20million for the period
• Successful applicants require a current NSW Working With Children Check
• Artists are responsible for insuring their property and contents
• Studios are non-residential. Overnight stays are not permitted
• Studios can be accessed from 7am to 9pm 7 days per week