New Shire of Augusta-Margaret River major events grants round to bolster festivals

The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River is opening its coffers to support major events to draw business to the region.

Applications for the 2024-25 major events grants opened on Monday, April 8, for organisers needing extra funding to get projects off the ground.

Sustainable economy and communities director Nick Byrne said the funding would help kickstart projects as well as reap benefits for the community, which was a goal identified in the local government’s strategic priorities.

“The major events grants are aimed at events that attract visitors to the region, provide economic benefit, promote inclusivity and are environmentally responsible,” Mr Byrne said.

“We believe these events are also a huge asset to our community and support a broad range of our local businesses.”

Past recipients have included the Margaret River Pro, Cabin Fever festival and the Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival.

Cabin Fever organisers Brianna Delaporte and Erin Molloy said programs such as the new funding round were “essential” for regional events.

Their festival was specifically designed to fill the midwinter lull many tourism and hospitality providers experienced each year.

“The Cabin Fever event model exists to provide maximum economic and social benefits back to regional businesses at a time when they need it most and without funding streams from the likes of the Augusta-Margaret River Shire and the City of Busselton, the event would not be able to support the regional economy in the way that it does,” the duo said.

Businesses and not-for-profit groups are eligible for grants for events predominantly based in the shire.

Mr Byrne said the program aimed to support existing major events of State or national significance, with multi-year agreements already inked for CinefestOz, Strings Attached and Rapid Ascent.

Grants of up to $20,000 can be applied for until May 17.