- $1.2 million to be awarded to 73 events through annual Regional Events Scheme
- Includes 16 new events for 2024-25 and nine regional Aboriginal events
- Supported by WA Government
Regional communities are set to benefit from up to $1.2 million being awarded to 73 regional events in 2024-25 through the 2024-25 Regional Events Scheme (RES).
The annual funding round supports smaller and developing regional events, helping to attract new visitors to Western Australia's five tourism regions and stimulate local economies.
It also includes $250,000 for the Regional Aboriginal Events Scheme, supporting events that showcase and celebrate Aboriginal activities or experiences through the leadership and participation of Aboriginal people.
This year's RES round will fund 16 new events across WA, including:
- Ningaloo Sky Festival, increasing exposure to the Gascoyne's dark sky tourism;
- Perth International Jazz Festival on Tour, featuring live music events across the South West region;
- SKUTTA, bringing together the Kimberley region's local creatives and Aboriginal communities to present a runway and performance event;
- Kalbarri Skywalk Dining Event, a unique dining and cultural experience on Australia's Coral Coast;
- agritourism event Harvey Harvest Festival, showcasing local produce and cultural experiences;
- Dam to Dam, an established dinghy racing event along the Ord River in the Kimberley; and
- Smokin' Barrel Fest, a BBQ cooking competition and music festival in the Chapman Valley.
Other existing events that will be funded again in 2024-25 include:
- CinefestOZ Broome;
- Dwellingup 100;
- Margaret River Open Studios; and
- Taste of Chittering.
The Regional Events Scheme is supported by the WA Government.
The next funding round will open in August 2024 for events that fall between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
To see the full list of recipients and for more information about the Regional Events Scheme, visit Tourism Western Australia'scorporate website.
As stated by Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Hosting vibrant and dynamic events in our regions is essential for tourism in attracting visitors, while also supporting jobs and communities.
"We're really proud to throw our support behind these 73 exciting events that really add something extra to the existing calendar, with unique focus points like dinghy racing or star gazing.
"With so much on offer, there really is something for everyone in the year ahead and I encourage all Western Australians to get out, explore our State and support our regions through attending these great events."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
"Once again, I am delighted to see such diversity and variety in our regional events calendar this year.
"As well as the economic impact to our regions, these events showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of our State, and everyone is bound to find an event that piques their interest."
