Meet the Creatives: Tabin Brooks and Helen South on finding a serious creative space at The Station

Wagga Wagga’s newest arts hub, The Station Creative Workspace, is about to throw open its doors – and with it, a whole new world of possibility for regional artists. From May 16–18, The Station officially launches with three days of exhibitions, workshops, live music and creative energy. But for artists like Tabin Brooks and Helen South, who had an early taste of the space during a short residency last November, The Station is already proving to be so much more than a studio. It’s a spark, a sanctuary, and a signal that the region is ready to take its creatives seriously.

Watercolour artist and visual storyteller Tabin Brooks was struck by how energising and affirming The Station felt. “The Station has a vibe that’s really conducive to creating art and also taking yourself seriously,” they shared. “It’s just really well put together – good lighting and nice people. It opened my eyes to the wider community that exists around the arts space.”

Tabin creates rich, narrative-driven sketchbooks that probe deep human questions. While they thrive on introspection, The Station gave them something unexpected: a fresh kind of connection. “Sometimes you can get so hung up on your own practise, but cross-pollinating ideas and seeing so many different ways of being and creating was invaluable.”

For Helen South, whose work explores ‘analytical landscapes’ using maps, text and mixed media, the space brought mental clarity and creative expansion. “There’s something about getting out of your usual environment that facilitates really exploring new ideas,” Helen explained. “The space was surprisingly peaceful despite its central location, and having that dedicated time and place helped me really get my head in the game and treat my work seriously.”

What stood out for Helen wasn’t just the physical space, but the professional respect that came with it. “There was never any doubt when they were talking to you that you are a practising professional artist. That belief in us was incredibly validating.”

From chats over tea to sharing wall space in the gallery, both artists found something rare: an authentic creative community. For regional artists, that kind of belonging can be hard-won – but at The Station, it came naturally.

Helen encourages anyone on the fence about visiting to come with curiosity. “It’s such a great way to meet people and make connections. Don’t be afraid – people are genuinely friendly and supportive. You’ve all got that shared passion for the arts in common.”

Tabin agrees: “Make the most of it. Create the space you want to inhabit. The Station has everything you need to build your practice and be part of something bigger.”

With its calm energy, collaborative heart, and unwavering commitment to local creatives, The Station isn’t just a building – it’s a movement. As Helen put it, “This is commitment to the arts in the best, truest sense of the word.”

Want to be part of it? Join the launch weekend May 16–18, www.easternriverinaarts.org.au/events/station-launch