10 new projects approved after $150k funding approved to boost events industry

$150,000 has been granted to repair the region’s events industry after the widespread decimation COVID-19 caused in 2020.

The tourism industry in the Darling Downs took a hit following border closures and widespread lockdowns across the country, but major steps have already been taken to restore and repair the industry with a major funding boost.

Southern Downs Regional Council has granted $150,000 to event organisers through the recently launched Local Events Funding Program.

Round one of the funding will see 10 events benefit from a total of $151,907 in funding.

Councillor Marco Gliori said the council had once again received applications for projects of a high standard.

“Council received a large number of applications which is encouraging as it speaks of the high level of business confidence in the region post the disruptive fire event late in 2019 as well as the added impact of COVID-19 restrictions in 2020.”

“This much needed funding will boost the high quality, innovative products, events and experiences as well as strengthen the Southern Downs and Granite Belt events calendar.”

Here are the events that have been approved and granted funding:

Warwick Chamber of Commerce:

Opera Queensland at the Warwick Showgrounds “Are you Lonesome tonight” combining opera with country music using a cabaret style performance.

Funding: $13,110.00

Granite Belt Wine Tourism:

Opera Queensland at Weeroona Park Stanthorpe “Are you Lonesome tonight” combining opera with country music using a cabaret style performance.

Funding: $16,991.70

Granite Belt Weddings & Events:

A business and feasibility strategy for Berries, Brews and the Aussie BBQ, which will be a one day annual festival enjoying an abundance of fresh berries, cooking the famous Australian BBQ, while washing it down with ice cold brew.

Funding: $12,000.00.

Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail Inc:

TOURISM SPENDING: The Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail will encourage tourists to buy and learn from local artisans at the three-day festival.

Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail is a self-drive arts trail where visitors and locals alike can immerse themselves in the abundance of natural beauty, culture, history and gourmet offerings.

Funding: $30,000.00.

Granite Belt Wines Pty Ltd:

TRIP AWAY: Enjoy the many wineries that the Granite Belt has to offer.

Uke and Folk at the Winery which will include workshops, open mic, entertainment and of course good food and wine.

Funding: $12,325.00.

Jumpers and Jazz in July Inc:

Strategic five year plan to ensure the longevity and sustainability of this much loved event.

Funding: $14,850.00

Granite Belt Weddings & Events:

Granite Belt Wedding Trail designed to attract and embrace the appeal of the region targeting destination weddings.

Funding: $8,080.00

Granite Belt Wine and Tourism:

Grapes of Mirth is a new festival featuring five comedy sets and some tunes set at Ballandean Estate Wines.

Funding: $17,230.00

The Warwick Caledonian Society:

Preparing the Warwick Caledonian Society's 70th annual Debutante Ball are Jessica Welsh, Glen Reid and Kaycie Gillam.

The Warwick Caledonian Society commemorates its 150th anniversary which makes the Society the oldest continuously operating Caledonian Society in the Southern Hemisphere – a momentous milestone well worth celebrating. 150th Scottish Celebration and Pipe Band Muster.

Funding: $16,471.00.

Stanthorpe Festival Association Inc:

LEND YOUR HELP: Mascots Jonathan and Isabella with Apple and Grape Harvest Festival Volunteer Director Annette Brown.

The Apple & Grape Festival is hosting The National busking Championships in conjunction with “Tastes of the Granite Belt” lunch.

Funding: $10,849.60.