Moorabool cash aid to boost shire tourism

Moorabool Shire Council is giving a leg-up to event organisers in a bid to boost tourism to the shire.

The final round of applications for seed funding for new tourism event development closes on June 12.

Ballan Rotary Club received a grant of about $4000 last year towards its Viva la Dulce Food and Wine Festival this August.

“The festival is about connecting the community and is very much a social event,” a spokesman for the event said.

“Importantly, proceeds from the event will go to Ballan Hospital and Rotary Club of Ballan to continue their good work.

“It’s not easy to take any idea from the planning to implementation phase, but if you get that initial support you can help get the event up and running and the whole community can benefit.”

The shire’s population is expected to rise more than 4200 to 30,668 by next year, according to the council’s recent tourism report.

“Council’s approach is to provide those in the community with the talent and skills with the incentive to provide another reason to visit our wonderful region,” mayor Paul Tatchell said.

He said applicants should be able to match the grant amount dollar for dollar as part of the competitive, merit-based assessment process.

Potential applicants should also discuss their eligibility with council’s economic development and marketing manager, Peter Forbes, before lodging an application.

Apply online at www.moorabool.vic.gov.au or contact 5366 7100.