This year’s Taste of Tasmania may be the last time it’s run by the Hobart City Council

THE Hobart City Council has rejected a request to boost funding for the Taste of Tasmania Festival by $400,000 as the council considers relinquishing control of the festival.

THE Hobart City Council has rejected a request to boost funding for the Taste of Tasmania Festival by $400,000 as the council considers relinquishing control of the festival.

The council’s finance and governance committee rejected the proposal for a funding rise last night.

Lord Mayor Ron Christie, who supported the motion, said festival director Brooke Webb had requested the increase for operational matters and to turn the Taste of Tasmania into a world-class event.

Hobart Lord Mayor Ron Christie says the council may relinquish control of the Taste of Tasmania. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE.

“I’ve seen the staff work to the max and they have been under the gun,” Ald Christie said. “Brooke needs assistance.”

Ald Christie said this year’s 30th anniversary was likely to be the last time the council ran the event.

“Hobart City Council is not an events company,” he said.

“… Although the Taste proudly showcases our fine Tasmanian produce it has come with a price tag investment of over $20 million of ratepayer funds in its 30-year history.

“Looking at the future, this is not sustainable.”