By Juliano Oliveira
Councillors have positively voted for the adoption of the Southern Downs and Granite Belt Events Strategy, developed by the Council’s Economic Development team and stakeholders in the events industry.
The master plan prioritises the future of events across the region to stimulate the industry over the next five years. From funding granted by the Australian Government, the project seeks to improve current events and attract cultural opportunities to the region.
March, July, August and October concentrate the most significant events in terms of attendance, with over 150,000 spectators. As a way to raise tourism numbers and increase revenue in the region, the strategy is based on five pillars: amplify destination profile; hallmark and major events in a year-round calendar; strategic focus and return on investment; facilitate event sustainability, and enhance event facilities.
Currently, Southern Downs Region has 53 venues with dedicated conference and event spaces. In addition, there are 28 green spaces suitable for festivals and functions and 15 sports clubs and facilities ideal for sporting events.
The region will emphasise more tourists coming from Brisbane, South East Queensland and Northern NSW, preferably through food and wine, agriculture, arts and culture, and eco-nature events. Exhibitions bring in valuable tourism dollars from outside the region, and one example is Warwick’s 2021 Great Australian Bites Festival, which attracted nearly 20 per cent of tickets from visitors.
During the council meeting on 13 October, councillors assessed the objectives of current and future events in the region.
“The events industry has fought back strongly and experienced an inspiring revival following drought, bushfires and COVID-19,” Councillor Stephen Tancred said.
“Many Queenslanders have discovered our part of the world for the first time during COVID-19, and we look forward to enticing them back to attend our many and varied events.
“The Southern Downs is home to an iconic calendar of major events such as the Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft, Jumpers and Jazz in July and the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, plus a many number of eclectic and quirky events like the Granite Belt Art Trail, the Killarney Bonfire and the Allora Autumn Festival. There is something for everyone, and this strategy will underpin an increase in visitors to the region,” he completed.
