Funding available for country events

Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, is encouraging people of the Benalla Electorate to apply for funding under the Country Victoria Events Program to facilitate and develop regional events.

Dr Sykes said, “The Country Victoria Events Program is a fantastic opportunity to obtain financial support and advice to develop regional and country events into significant self-sustaining tourist attractions.”

“The Country Victoria Events Program aims to promote regional tourism and regional economies. What a great opportunity to develop our local celebrations into significant attractions!”

“This Program has benefited the Benalla Electorate in the past providing funding to Alpine Valleys Gourmet Weekend, Benalla Botanica, Euroa Show and Shine, Historic Winton, as well as the Ned Kelly Weekend. Let’s continue to promote this beautiful part of Country Victoria and let others share in our celebrations of natural attractions, produce, history and culture,” Dr Sykes declared.

The main criteria for funding eligibility is:

• Funding sought is to be matched $ for $ in cash;
• The event must be held at least two months after 1 October 2007;
• The level of financial viability and sustainability of the event as evidenced by a budget;
• The level of potential the event has to attract ‘outside and new visitors’ for longer periods; and
• The event must be ongoing.

Applications for grants under the Country Victoria Events Program close at 4pm on 1 October 2007

Information, online application forms and guidelines can be obtained from: www.tourismalliance.com.au or Ph: 03 9650 8399 or by contacting Peta Clark, Grant Researcher, at Bill Sykes’ office Ph: 03 5762 2100.

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