Michelle is arts winner

Michelle Cuneo from Woy Woy has been selected as the winner of the Arts, Culture and Entertainment award at the Gosford City Australia Day Community Awards ceremony held at Laycock St Theatre on Sunday, January 23.

Ms Cuneo was chosen for her continuing contribution to the arts.

For over 24 years, she has been involved in the talent development of young performing artists in the Gosford area and has followed the career path both as a performer and choreographer.

Ms Cuneo said there were so many talented nominees she was surprised to be announced the winner.

"Winning was a total surprise," said Ms Cuneo.

"There were so many nominees with outstanding contributions to our local community that I was pleased to simply be considered amongst them.

"I've been humbled by the number of well-wishers," she said.

"People have been genuinely pleased for me.

"I'm very proud of the work I've done, including establishing Cuneo Dance Company, an independent contemporary dance company that gave local dancers the opportunity to work with experienced international performers," she said.

Ms Cuneo is currently the artistic development officer for Central Coast Post School Options, providing performing arts opportunities for young adults with disabilities and is in the process of developing a disability dance company Open Door Dance Co.

"Like most creative people I'm driven by a love of the arts and a discipline learnt through years of arts training," she said.

"The sheer enthusiasm and joy for living and learning these people bring each week fuels my passion even more," she said.

Email, 2 Feb 2011 Michelle Cuneo, Woy Woy