farmdoc's blog post number 135

In October 2004 UNESCO launched its Creative Cities Network. This Network is designed to promote the social, economic and cultural development of cities in both the developed and the developing world. The cities which apply to join the Network seek to promote their local creative scene, and share an interest in UNESCO’s mission of cultural diversity. Cities with established creative pedigrees can choose to apply in only one of seven categories. As critical as I am of governments, every now and again they do something good – akin to a stopped clock showing the correct time twice each day. On 26 June 2007 the Victorian Arts Minister announced a steering committee aiming for Melbourne to become a City of Literature in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network. The criteria and characteristics of such a city are formidable. Two weeks ago UNESCO announced the Committee’s success, naming Melbourne as the second City of Literature, joining Edinburgh which was appointed in 2004. What’ll this mean for Melbourne? Clearly at this early stage it’s too early to know. But it should be positive and good. As a Melbourne ratepayer and a husband, father and grandfather of a bunch of talented and avid writers and eclectic and enthusiastic readers, I am overjoyed. Finally, I think UNESCO’s decision shows the Government’s extension of the Formula 1 Grand Prix contract, as short-sighted and idiotic.