Police Point Artist in Residence Program

The Shire runs an Artist in Residence program at Police Point Shire Park, Portsea, Victoria.

The historic Gatekeepers Cottage (c.1888) was built for the boatmen of the Quarantine Station at Portsea. Located in Point Nepean National Park, the Quarantine Station has outstanding natural and heritage values. It was used to control and prevent the spread of diseases such as Scarlet Fever and Typhoid, from immigrants arriving by sea during the 1800's. In 1901 the cottage became accommodation for the Gatekeeper, who monitored movement in and out of the Quarantine Station.  

Recently renovated to heritage standards an extension has added a studio space.

The cottage has two bedrooms, a reading room, studio, kitchen and dining room, bathroom, vegetable boxes and back verandah. Set amidst Police Point Park the back verandah has spectacular views of Port Phillip Bay.

This inspiring site is located in the traditional lands of the Burin’yong-bulluk. One of the clans of the Bunurong people who are part of the Kulin Nation of Central Victoria.

The Police Point Artist in Residency program is coordinated by the Shire’s Arts & Culture team.

Emerging and established artists, writers, musicians, and creatives can apply for an Artist in Residency.

Both supported and fee-paying residencies are available, ranging from two to six weeks. 

In a supported residency the artist occupies the cottage without charge to the artist. There is a requirement to participate in agreed public programs, contributing to the cultural life of the Peninsula.

Fee-paying residencies are $300 per week (+GST).

Download and read the Police Point Artist Brief.

Contact the Shire's Arts and Culture Team by email at artsandculture@mornpen.vic.gov.au or keep updated by joining our Arts and Culture mailing list.