Mildura Rural City Council is calling for expressions of interest to host one of the Mallee's most iconic events, the Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph.
Mildura City Heart's memorandum of understanding with Council to host the Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph runs out after this year's event, paving the way for the next chapter in its colourful story from 2020.
Councillor for Economic Development and Tourism Mark Eckel congratulated Mildura City Heart for its contribution.
"Since the move to the Langtree Mall in 2017, we've seen this fantastic event continue to grow and evolve thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Mildura City Heart committee, management and staff," Cr Eckel said.
"By hosting the Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph in the heart of our central business district it introduced a host of new people to our city centre, and to the event itself.
"With the current agreement coming to an end after this year's Triumph, it opens the way for a new group or individual to take this iconic event in a new direction."
Cr Eckel said the event held an important and unique position on Sunraysia's annual events calendar, attracting thousands of visitors and injecting thousands of dollars into the region's economy each year.
"Due to its status as a widely-recognised and iconic Mallee event, and the important cultural and community benefits it brings to our region each year, it's essential that the event be retained in the Mildura Rural City Council area," Cr Eckel said.
"The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph is a vital, iconic event for the Mallee and it's critical we keep it alive and continue the legacy started back in 1998 when the Ouyen community created the event and put it 'on the map' nationally."
Mildura City Heart has indicated its full support for the incoming event organiser to ensure a smooth transition, offering to share its knowledge and documentation. Incoming event organisers will also be encouraged to be part of the 2019 Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph as volunteers, providing a chance to gain an insight into the event.
