A BRIEF HISTORY

The Camden Haven Arts Council has been presenting quality arts experiences for the Hastings community for over 30 years.

Starting life as the Arts Club of Laurieton, Camden Haven Arts Council (CHAC) was formed in 1973 as a local arts council affiliated with the Arts Council of NSW, now Regional Arts NSW. It was incorporated in 1995.

Camden Haven Arts Council was the first organisation to stage a major event in the newly completed Port Macquarie Civic Centre in 1973, when it brought the Queensland Ballet Company to perform. Since this time CHAC has continued to provide high quality artistic experiences to the people of the Hastings region.

All branches of the arts were catered for, with art exhibitions, craft displays, drama, dance and music all receiving attention. CHAC also acted as the auspicing body for many smaller groups, providing a secure umbrella while they became self sufficient and established.

In these early years most performances were held in the Laurieton School of Arts, but once the 1908 Kendall School of Arts was restored to its original beauty in 1983, it quickly became the hub of CHAC's musical presentations. The desire to have its own piano inspired the CHAC members of 1987 to initiate an appeal for funds to purchase one. In a remarkable community achievement sufficient funds were gathered to enable the purchase in 1989 of a Yamaha chamber grand piano.

CHAC's membership has grown substantially in recent years and now includes residents from all areas of the Hastings and beyond. To maintain our high standards, manage our finances responsibly and continue to present the best professional artists for members' enjoyment, we now offer events in many different venues and areas across the Hastings . However, Kendall village and its charming School of Arts building, remain at the heart of our activities.