Regional Event Fund Applications Now Open
The State Government’s Regional Event Fund is ready to receive applications, coinciding with the kickoff of the three-day Kangaroo Island Cup Carnival. Celebrating its 141st year in 2024, this regional event is just one of the 33 supported by the Fund throughout 2023-24.
Managed by the South Australian Tourism Commission, the Regional Event Fund aims to support the growth of new and innovative regional events while enhancing existing ones, ultimately driving visitation and boosting the regional economy.
Zoe Bettison, Minister for Tourism highlights the significance of regional events, stating, “Regional events provide a great opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore South Australia. They celebrate the vibrancy and creativity of our state and contribute to the social fabric of regional communities.”
The 2024 Kangaroo Island Cup Carnival, a crowd favorite attracting over 3,000 attendees, is an example of the success of the Regional Event Fund. This event not only brings joy to racing enthusiasts but also pumps valuable dollars into the local economy as people flock to the region and support local businesses.
Leon Bignell, Member for Mawson emphasises the impact of these grants on regional areas, stating, “These grants are fantastic for regional areas such as Kangaroo Island because they help organisers to market events to people interstate and in other parts of SA.”
The Regional Event Fund is currently accepting applications until 5 pm on Monday, May 6. Two categories of funding are available: Established Event Funding, offering up to $50,000 per year for three years, and Development Event Funding, providing up to $20,000 per year for three years.
Greg Miller, Secretary/Treasurer of the Kangaroo Island Racing Club, is grateful for the support received, saying, “The support we receive from the South Australian Tourism Commission assists us to stage a first-class country racing experience.”
With the Fund’s support, the Kangaroo Island Cup Carnival attracts visitors from as far as the Pilbara in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and down through Victoria, reaching as high as far north Queensland. This demonstrates the positive impact of the Regional Event Fund in making regional events like the Cup Carnival flourish and reach audiences far and wide.
Click here to apply or learn more about the funding guidelines.
