Stepping away from water issues as a platform for campaigns in Murray is challenging, and Green's candidate Nivanka De Silva knows she has her work cut out for her going up against the big parties in Murray.
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However she says she recognises the need for focus to be on other aspects of the community, and Western Riverina Arts executive officer Derek Motion took the chance to quiz her on potential arts funding if elected.
With the Arts group receiving a set amount from the government which has not changed in seven years despite rising costs, Mr Motion says more set funding would go towards hiring an Aboriginal Liaison Officer, as well as the implementation of more programs.
Mr Motion says even having an extra $20,000 would help, if not with another staff member but with initiatives designed to engage and assist local artists.
"It's great to have a focus on infrastructure and buildings, but we also need to be able to have programs catering to cultural engagement," Mr Motion said.
Miss De Silva agreed, and said if elected she would support the Green's policies of increasing and supporting art programs in Murray, especially in relation to Indigenous culture and those artists with disabilities.
"The Green's recognise and have policy catering to the importance of arts and culture," Miss De Silva said.
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She says a focus especially on Indigenous communities will help artists produce art in a way that then sees them benefit as a result.
"I would actively work to see culture and diversity increase, in a way that supports local and grass roots projects through community consultation," Miss De Silva said.
"Instead of seeing culture and art as a secondary concern, involving them in basic services like education and health is a clear way to help and enrich the wider community."
