Applications are now open for the State Government’s 2017-18 Regional Events Scheme (RES).
Member for Wagin Terry Waldron MLA said a total funding pool of up to $850,000 was available through the latest round of the scheme, which is jointly funded by Royalties for Regions and Tourism Western Australia.
“Organisers of events that bring visitors and vibrancy to regional Western Australia are invited to apply for sponsorship through the 2017-18 Regional Events Scheme,” Mr Waldron said.
“Events are an important component of the State Government’s investment in regional tourism initiatives.
“Tourism is a vital industry for regional WA. In 2015-16, visitors spent $9.6 billion in the State including $4.5 billion in regional areas.
“Events encourage people to explore the regions, bringing huge economic, social and cultural benefits to regional communities.”
Events to receive RES 2016-17 funding in the Wagin electorate include –
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Porongorup Wine Festival;
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Grapes and Gallops Festival (Mt Barker);
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Qantas Wine Show of Western Australia (Mt Barker); and
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Southern Art & Craft Trail – in Albany, Denmark, Mount Barker, Kojonup, Frankland River, Walpole and Porongorup.
Nationals WA candidate for Roe Peter Rundle said the RES strengthened WA’s year-round events calendar by helping smaller-scale and developing events in the electorate and across the State to flourish.
“Improving visitor experiences is an important component to creating economic and job opportunities for local communities in the region and across WA,” Mr Rundle said.
“Royalties for Regions is investing in regional tourism to create a strengthened regional economy and renewed social sustainability for these communities.”
Applications are open until 5pm WST on December 13, 2016 for funding between $5000 and $50,000 towards eligible regional events to be held between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018.
The RES has supported 320 events since 2011. For more information, visit http://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/res
For media enquiries contact Terry Waldron on 9881 1225 or email terry.waldron@mp.wa.gov.au or Peter Rundle on M: 0418 959 810, E: peter.rundle@nationalswa.com