Tourism, events funds support local initiatives

THE Victorian government is supporting local events and tourism operators through the regional events and regional tourism investment funds, to attract international visitors.

The latest round of the Regional Events Fund included support for the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, the Western Bulldogs at Mars Stadium and the Ballarat Marathon.

“Victoria boasts so many unique events for visitors to enjoy – from the Grampians to Gippsland and Mildura to the Great Ocean Road – showing off what makes our state every bit different,” Visit Victoria chief executive officer Brendan McClements said.

The fund supports festivals, sporting events, and exhibitions that create local jobs and increase tourism. Up to $500,000 is available for events of national or international significance and up to $50,000 for events that attract visitors from across the state and country.

“The regional events fund brings thousands of visitors to local communities, providing a huge boost for businesses and showcasing some of Victoria’s most incredible destinations,” Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said. “Whether it’s the Grampians Grape Escape, the Western Bulldogs’ games in Ballarat or the East Gippsland Winter Festival, we’re ensuring communities across the state benefit from our huge pipeline of events.”

The BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park at Cardigan received funding through the Regional Tourism Investment Fund to refurbish and renovate cabins, improve the overall accessibility of the park and construct a playground.

“The BIG4 Holiday Park is such a special place in Ballarat and this boost of funding will put them even more on the map,” Ripon MP Martha Haylett said.

Operators around the state received grants of between $100,000 and $5 million to support innovative tourism projects.