South Australia's summer to remember rides on with thousands of locals flocking to Kangaroo Island this weekend for one of the region's major events.
The 2021 SeaLink Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival starts today with a casual race day and the big race, the Dudley Wines Kangaroo Island Cup, on Saturday. The day in-between provides visitors a chance to explore the island's many tourist attractions and spend up with local businesses.
The Carnival is one of 32 regional events receiving sponsorship in 2020/21 by the South Australian Tourism Commission. The SATC's Regional Event Fund was recently allocated an additional $1 million - providing grants from $5,000 to more than $50,000 through 2021/22 to spur new and innovative regional events as well as grow existing events.
SATC chief executive Rodney Harrex said regional events like the Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival provide another reason for South Australians to get out across the state.
"We've seen record numbers of South Australians getting out across the regions this summer, giving tourism operators a much-needed boost after a challenging year," said Mr Harrex.
"Regional events not only contribute to the social and cultural fabric of our communities - they also give locals an added incentive to book a regional trip and spend with local businesses.
"With the million-dollar injection for regional events just like the SeaLink Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival, we're keeping the strong intrastate tourism momentum going well into 2021 and beyond."
Around 3,500 visitors are expected at Kangaroo Island's Cygnet River Racecourse over the two-day carnival - capped at 2,500 at any one time due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Saturday is the day for racegoers to dress up in 'true racing style' and enjoy the trackside entertainment and marquees, fashion on the field competition, and the abundance of local Kangaroo Island food and wine.
"The SeaLink Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival gives South Australians all over the state that extra nudge to book a trip to the island, enjoy the action of the horseracing, and spend some money with local businesses and tourism operators," said Mr Harrex.
"I encourage anyone heading to the races to make the most of their time in the region, explore the island's many sights and experiences, and spend with operators who've felt the impacts of the downturn in international tourism."
Ticketing information for the 2021 SeaLink Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival via southaustralia.com.
Details about the Regional Event Fund, including how to apply for round one which closes on 12 April 2021, at: tourism.sa.gov.au/support/regional-event-fund.
