Meeting with Zali Steggall, federal MP for Warringah
Building a Stronger Manly: Meeting with Zali Steggall to Support Arts, Culture & Community
This week, we met with Zali Steggall MP, our Federal Member for Warringah, to discuss exciting opportunities to strengthen arts, culture, and community connections in Manly. The conversation brought together local voices, including representatives Yasco (co-founder manly42) and Zoe (co-founder manly42 / President of Manly Theatre Group) and Kathleen Walker (Artisitic Director,Manly Theatre Group), all united by a shared vision: to create a vibrant, inclusive community hub that celebrates creativity and connection.
Supporting Arts, Culture, and Community
Manly has always been a place where creativity thrives — from live music and visual arts to community markets and local storytelling. Our discussion with Zali focused on how we can secure ongoing funding and partnerships to sustain and expand cultural initiatives across the area.
Zali reaffirmed her support for local organisations that bring people together, highlighting how arts and culture play a vital role in mental wellbeing, economic resilience and social cohesion.
Finding a Permanent Home for Manly42
A key part of the discussion centred on finding a permanent base for manly42 — envisioned as a community hub where people can connect, collaborate, and create.
The goal is to establish a dedicated space that hosts:
Local arts exhibitions and educational workshops
Community meetings and youth programs
Live performances, talks, and cultural events
Shared space for creatives and groups to socialise.
This permanent home would not just be a venue — it would be a heart for Manly’s community life, where everyone is welcome to contribute and feel a sense of belonging.
Next Steps
We’re now exploring potential sites and funding opportunities to make this vision a reality. Collaboration will be key, between government, local businesses, and the community itself.
We’re calling on locals, artists, and community groups to share their ideas, energy, and support as we take the next steps toward building a lasting home for arts and connection in Manly.
Together, we can make manly42 a place where creativity, culture, and community truly come alive.
