In a boost for the picturesque Murray River region, four local councils are set to receive a share of funding exceeding $100,000. The financial support aims to bolster the creation of new and emerging events, enticing visitors to explore the scenic riverside locales.
The South Australian Tourism Commission’s (SATC) Tourism Event Support Grant will allocate $15,000 each to the Berri Barmera Council, the District Council of Loxton Waikerie, and the Rural City of Murray Bridge. The Mid Murray Council, facing the brunt of the flood event, will receive a $90,000 share of the grant.
“We are committed to supporting our river communities and it’s great to see the $150,000 Tourism Event Support Grant now allocated,” Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison says.
“We know events are an important driver of visitation, giving people a reason to visit, ‘right now’. With a range of new and exciting events planned for 2024 and beyond, we expect to see more visitors travelling to our river regions to see all that is on offer.”
These councils are gearing up to channel this funding towards a diverse array of events, blending new and existing attractions that promise to breathe life into the region.
Among the exciting lineup are carp fishing competitions at Loxton and Murray Bridge, a sizzling BBQ challenge, a mesmerising fusion of music, food, and light show festival on the enchanting Lake Bonney, the inaugural Cobdogla Country Music Festival, and the adrenaline-pumping powerboat races and rowing regattas at Berri.
A primary objective of this funding injection is to nurture and sustain these fresh events over the years to come, ensuring an enriched experience for visitors and fostering the enduring charm of the river regions.
“During the summer of 2022-23, many planned annual events were cancelled. This funding will help us support the return of existing events while providing opportunities for new events. We’ll also be undertaking marketing activity to support the local tourism sector,” Simone Bailey, Mayor Mid Murray Council says.
“We’re pleased to be able to share the $150,000 in funding with our neighbouring councils who were also hit hard by the once in a century flooding event.”
The Mid Murray Council, significantly impacted by the recent flood event, will also use its share of the funds to expedite the recovery of tourism in the region. This includes the creation of new, enticing events and a strategic approach to marketing, aiming to rekindle the region’s appeal as a must-visit destination.
The Tourism Event Support Grant is an integral component of the broader $500,000 Mid Murray recovery funding initiative. This comprehensive program encompasses over $300,000 dedicated to supporting local businesses that bore the brunt of the floods.
Both these funding programs play a pivotal role in the $4.6 million river recovery plan, which has launched essential stimulus programs such as the ‘Rise up for our River’ marketing campaign and the River Revival Voucher program.
Recent data from Rounds 1 and 2 of the voucher program underscored its significant economic impact, injecting over $10 million into the severely flood-affected regions of Riverland and Murray River, Lakes, and Coorong. This substantial financial boost not only aids the recovery but also promises to rejuvenate these stunning riverfront areas, beckoning travelers to explore the natural wonders and vibrant culture they have to offer.
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