A NEW strategy to turn the Cassowary Coast into a vibrant events region has been adopted by the council.
The Cassowary Coast Events Strategy 2024-2028 supports the development of a calendar of sustainable events that draws on the unique attributes of the region as a destination like no other.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the strategy will provide a framework to continue building events in the Cassowary Coast.
“From sports, arts and culture, food and drink, music festivals or business events, each event provides the opportunity to celebrate our region, tell our story and brings opportunities to the Cassowary Coast,” Mayor Millwood said.
“The strategy is very much focused on supporting and growing existing events, and we will also seek to attract new events through to 2028 and beyond.
“Through endorsing this strategy Council is recognising that a vibrant and balanced events program will deliver social and economic benefits, grow community capacity and pride, and build the Cassowary Coast’s reputation as an events destination.”
Cassowary Coast Councillor for Economic Development and Tourism Renee McLeod said the economic impact of events are an important contributor to our region.
“A key aim of this strategy is to attract more visitors and provide opportunities for local businesses, ongoing job creation and new business opportunities,” Cr. McLeod said.
Community input to the development of the strategy was received through a Your Say survey as well as direct consultation with event organisers and accommodation providers as well as key event stakeholders.
Participants in the community consultation said they would most like to see more festivals and events (70 per cent), exhibitions and shows (48 per cent), food and drink (44 per cent) and classes and workshops (43 per cent).
The most valued aspect of local events was ‘Celebrating community – where we live and who we are’. The consultation also revealed attributes that the community most values being community pride (25 per cent), visitor attraction (24 per cent), economic benefits (23 per cent) and attendance and participation (22 per cent).
A full summary of the consultation has been published alongside the adopted Strategy on Council’s Your Say page.
For further information please contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.
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