"The Shed, Bellingen"

by Alex Cowley

Photos above courtesy of Gethin Coles.

‘Bello’

Nestled in the shadow of Gondwana, the World Heritage Listed Rainforest, Bellingen is green - green in pasture and fertile in expression. The rich soil of imagination, freedom of expression and alternative thought, nourishes artists, writers, musicians, organic producers and farmers - all who would harbour here on the banks of the Bellinger river. This is fitting, as Bellingen originally known as Boat Harbour when white settlement began in the mid 1800s, has grown into a vibrant community that values and embraces connection, creativity and sustainability – it's a great place to get in touch with mind, body, heart and soul.

We acknowledge the Gumbaynggirr People,
traditional custodians of the land on which this event is taking place,
and pay tribute to the unique role they play in the life of this region.

"The Green Cathedral"

by Alex Cowley

Bellingen Uniting Church is a community following the way of Jesus

uniting for the common good – celebrating exploration of faith

"Moonrise, Urunga"

by Alex Cowley

Why "Heart & Soul"?

In the Christian tradition, Jesus was once asked what was the most important thing God desired of people, and his answer was "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself."
(Luke 10:27, New Revised Standard Version)

We are people whose heart and soul is found in loving God and loving people and for us, part of that journey is hearing and learning from others the ideas that stir their heart and soul. We love the fact that art is a window to the heart and soul, and we're excited to open as many windows as possible!