Major Territory events such as Bass and Million Dollar Fish rake in $110m

Popular festivals, fishing competitions and cultural events have helped the Territory economy to the tune of $110m, a new report into the sector has found.

EIGHT major events across the Northern Territory have turbocharged the economy to the tune of $110m in the 2020/21 financial year, research for the NT government has found.

The events include major interstate drawcards like the Supercars and BASSINTHEGRASS, with the government seizing on the figures to push its credentials for supporting the arts and culture scene.

The study also found the economic activity generated 433 full-time equivalent jobs and encouraged tourists to spend 257,590 nights in the NT.

Of the $110m, the research suggested $64.9m was “new money” brought in from out of the Territory.

Million Dollar Fish reeled in the most money, providing a river of gold worth $41.4m to the economy.

Darwin’s Triple Crown Supercars event drove home $23m in economic stimulus, followed by BASSINTHEGRASS with $14.5m.

The Northern Territory’s biggest-ever music festival BASSINTHEGRASS brought in $14.5m. Picture: Supplied

Parrtjima also brought a $11.55m boost to the Red Centre.

Feedback collected by the NT government also suggested 96 per cent of respondents want the backing of major events to continue.

Major Events Minister Natasha Fyles said the data proved the “Northern Territory is the comeback capital”.

“This research shows the Territory Labor Government’s management of major events and support of community festivals and events is excelling despite the challenges of a global pandemic,” Ms Fyles said.

The _Spirit Kultcha_ display at Parrtjima, which projects light on to the MacDonnell Ranges.

“We have always acted to keep the Territory safe – and our success has given both Territorians and interstate visitors confidence that they can attend major events right here.”

The resumption of events during this year’s Dry, after a year of turmoil, a major boost for the Territory’s flagging tourism sector.

BASSINTHEGRASS was among the first music festivals to resume in the midst of the pandemic.

The dry season boom has however been somewhat derailed, as border restrictions cause booking cancellations.