The Northern Territory’s favourite major events receive $2.4m in renewed funding

The Territory’s Beer Can Regatta, Beanie Festival, outdoor concerts and more will be back in 2023. We reveal how they will benefit the Top End and the money making them possible.

Several of the Territory’s favourite events will receive funding from the NT government in 2023.

The Northern Territory Major Events Company will administer $2.4m to 39 events through the NT government’s Event Funding Program.

The Darwin Symphony Orchestra’s Rhythm of the ‘90s concert is one of 25 events to be granted a multi-year deal under the scheme.

The Darwin Symphony Orchestra performed an All Out ‘80s concert at the Darwin Botanic Gardens in 2022. Picture: Tim Nicol

DSO general manager Kate Stephens said she was delighted the orchestra’s starlight concerts would receive support over next three years.

“This funding allows us to continue bringing this much-loved event to life, and further enhance the audience experience for Territorians and visitors alike,” she said.

“Rhythm of the 90s will be an unmissable throwback party, featuring the finest of Territory talent in our full symphony orchestra and front band.”

Ms Stephens said next year’s concert would have “something for everybody” including pop hits, hip hop classics and metal legends.

“The concert gives thousands of Territorians access to a world-class concert presentation in the beautiful setting of the Darwin Botanic Gardens,” she said.

Team Bogan’s Ken Whinney with son Ryan at the Lions Beer Can Regatta at Mindil Beach. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Fan favourites such as Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta, Katherine Junk Festival, Alice Springs Beanie Festival, Chariots of Thunder Sprintcar Series and Barunga Festival also received renewed support.

New events will also be supported by the scheme, including a travelling rock-and-roll theatre show.

It is expected the annual events will draw in thousands of locals and tourists during the high and low seasons.

Acting Major Events Minister Nicole Manison said “Territorians run the best events”.

“Whether it be our major music and cultural festivals, sporting events or community events, the Territory provides the most unique experiences in the nation,” she said.

“Our events calendar is critical to our tourism and hospitality sectors, and is a major contributor to the Territory economy.

“That’s why the Northern Territory Government keeps on backing the brilliant team at NTMEC to support our events and organisers.

“We are focused on growing the calendar every year and that’s what we are delivering in 2023.”

There were 22 supported events throughout 2021 and 2022.

These events delivered a $39.8m stimulus and 110,194 visitor nights in the Territory.

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