Bellingen event Camp Creative is one regional organisation working to change this. As part of its 2020 program launch, it has created 30 camp scholarships, for Coffs Coast kids aged five to 18, living in the Coffs Harbour, Nambucca and Bellingen local government areas.

The camp is a week of learning for adults, kids and teens across a range of courses, including music, visual art, singing, drama, dance and craft.

Bellingen teen Codi Denham has received multiple camp scholarships and believes performing in front of audiences at the camp supported her growing achievements as a dancer.

"I loved the opportunity to increase my physical skills and confidence and grow my comfort zone by performing newly learnt skills in front of an audience," she said.

"It has really helped me in auditions and eisteddfods. In particular, after an exhaustive audition process, I was lucky enough to make the 2019 NSW Schools Aboriginal Dance Company, which will now see me perform at the State Dance Festival, and also the Schools Spectacular."

Mum Kellie Small agrees.

"She has done many other dance courses, but she felt that she learnt more at Camp Creative. She pushed herself to attempt things she wouldn't normally do because the tutors were excellent, and she felt so comfortable in the familiar surroundings. She is happy to support other Indigenous kids by helping them to enter the room and feel more comfortable."

Camp Creative runs in Bellingen from January 13 to 17, 2020. There are 13 courses just for kids and teens, as well as 69 adult courses, many open to teens aged 14+.

Those interested should visit www.campcreative.com.au/apply/scholarships before applications close at 5pm, Friday, August 23.