Mr Fraser, who made the announcement while in Townsville at the inaugural QERDP Conference, said the latest round of funding would be shared amongst a number of regional locations and would boost tourism, create jobs, and foster local economic activity.
“The government will contribute $1,078,100 to 45 events through Round 17 of QERDP funding,” he said. “This wave of recipients will include a mix of iconic, well-established events like the Rathdowney Heritage Festival and some newer, more innovative events, like the Heart of Gold International Film Festival at Gympie.
“The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and the International Rally of Queensland will both be elevated to Significant Regional Event Scheme (SRES) status, which means both events will benefit from a $150,000 investment over three years.” Mr Fraser said recipients would use the funding to employ staff, produce promotional material and websites, and hire infrastructure.
“We are seeing many events utilise QERDP funding to better plan for the long term, develop alternative income streams and embrace ecologically responsible practices,” he said.
“The 45 events being funded under Round 17 brings the total of funded events since the beginning of the scheme in 2001 to 645. So far, the Bligh Government has invested $13.6 million through QERDP
“The value and success of the program is wide-reaching, and I look forward to these events continuing to bring social and economic benefits to Queensland.”
Rally of Queensland Event Director, Errol Bailey, said: "The support provided by the Queensland Government is on the back of a three year funding deal from the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and gives the event long term stability and support consistent with its status as the only international motor sport event in Queensland, following the unfortunate demise of the A1GP this month."
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