New destination events to drive tourism opportunities
Published on 09 May 2023
Western Downs Regional Council is backing new and exciting events for the region, with the latest Destination Events Program providing vital funding to community-driven initiatives.
Three new events have collectively received $21,000 to deliver fantastic events in the region, building social inclusion and driving the economy by encouraging more visitors to local towns.
Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Events, and Regional Promotion Councillor Kylie Bourne said the program was about drawing people together and celebrating what it means to live on the Western Downs.
"We're proud of the region we choose to call home, and our Destination Events Program gives community groups and organisations an addition leg up to deliver high-quality events,” Cr Bourne said.
"Our recently-endorsed Tourism Strategy paves the way for continued growth across the tourism sector, and one direct action as part of the strategy is attracting new destination events. This is exactly what this grants program is about.
"As part of this year's grants program, Council has contributed $10,000 to the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia's 36th National Rally.
"This massive event will see up to 700 vans and motorhomes converge on the Western Downs to explore our great region in September and October this year.
“Our region knows how to host a party, as we have recently seen with the Chinchilla Melon Festival, and with the region’s iconic Big Skies Festival returning to the region over the same weekend this year, we know it’s going to be our biggest yet.
'We are delighted to bring such a massive national event to the Western Downs, and Council is proud to support CMCA’s major event.”
CMCA CEO Richard Barwick said the group was extremely excited to bring its 36th National Rally to the Western Downs in 2023 and had outstanding cooperation from Council.
“There are many benefits that will come from hosting a CMCA National Rally, including the economic injection which will be shared around the local community and region, the tourism benefits and experiences that will be long lasting, as well as the community ownership of the event and marketing and national exposure,” Mr Barwick said.
“A very high percentage of purchases will be made in the local community, where businesses benefit, so therefore its important the community maximises this influx of visitors during this period.”
The program has also provided $5,500 to the International Legends of League Chinchilla Event, and $5,500 to the Police Memorial Frank Fisher Cup Chinchilla.
Cr Bourne said it was important Council continues to empower communities to deliver new and exciting initiatives for residents across the Western Downs.
“These major events give residents the opportunity to come together and celebrate their local community and the people that make it, and I encourage everyone to get involved in these three fabulous new events.
To find out more about the various grants and funding opportunities offered by Council, visit wdrc.info/grants-funding