Capability

Dr Ross Farnell is a highly experienced arts and cultural consultant with over 25 years’ leadership in the arts, cultural and venue sector. He brings extensive strategic and operational expertise, working across all levels of government, not-for-profits, peak bodies and charities. His experience spans performing, visual, museum, community, and studio arts, with a proven track record in major infrastructure projects—from concept and consultation to funding, delivery and operations.

As Executive Director of Burrinja Cultural Centre for over two decades, Ross led the development of key facilities including a 400-seat theatre and artist studios ($15M+), while cultivating strong partnerships with independent arts and cross-sector organisations and government stakeholders. During the past six years he has delivered strategic and business plans for arts organisations, consulted on cultural tourism and developed operational plans for multi-purpose creative spaces.

He has extensive experience partnering with community, artists and organisations, facilitating the cultural production of a wide range of projects, events and festivals within venues and activated regional spaces.
Ross’s qualifications include a PhD in Cultural Studies and postgraduate Arts Management. He combines academic rigour with practical insight, having taught Arts Management at Deakin University. He is skilled in community engagement and consultative processes, and has worked extensively in cultural planning, event activation, and regional arts development.
Ross is an active member of Australia’s arts networks and peak industry bodies. He brings passion, creativity and a results-driven approach to every project.

Cultural Facility management, operations and programming

Cultural Facility Development (Design concepts Burrinja Cultural Centre - Burgess)