New events in Moorabool could be eligible for a share of grants to be allocated twice a year.
A new grants program will provide the most promising local events with a three-year funding commitment from the council.
Councillors last week voted to establish a new funding category, with $19,900 formerly committed to a Feast of March marketing budget being redirected to new events. An existing major events grant category, with a pool of $17,500, will remain open to events that have been held previously.
Cr Pat Toohey said the changes would bring the events funding process into line with the council’s community grants scheme.
“If there’s still funding available and insufficient applications, the money carries over to the next round,” Cr Toohey said.
The council will make a three-year commitment to selected events, giving them the opportunity to gain a foothold.
“It takes more than a year for an event to establish itself in a marketplace,” Cr John Spain said.
Cr David Edwards said Moorabool had a history of events ‘‘burning out’’ from lack of support.
“We should show support for three years for events that raise funds and bring money into the local economy. We need to think long- term.”
