Shire of Augusta-Margaret River splashes cash on major events to boost local economy

The winners of the latest round of major events funding from the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River have been revealed.

In releasing the details of recipients last week, shire sustainable economy and communities director Nick Byrne said the hotly contested funding supported drawcard events that promoted the region with dividends for businesses as well as residents and visitors coming to Margaret River.

Recipients included the Cabin Fever Festival ($18,000), Margaret River Region Open Studios ($20,000), Cape-to-Cape MTB ($16,000), Core Big Air Nationals Kiteboarding in Augusta ($10,000), Karndiale Circus Festival ($14,500) and Emergence Creative Festival ($14,500).

CinefestOz Film Festival and the Margaret River Ultra Marathon had already received $22,000 and $10,000 respectively.

Ahoy Management’s Erin Molloy said events such as her Cabin Fever festival brought in more than $1 million to the economy but support from funding partners was crucial.

Shire officers selected recipients based on guidelines set by the council.

“As a tourism destination, events form a key part of our identity as a region and deliver a host of benefits to the community,” Mr Byrne said.

“A diverse array of events — from sports events through to food and wine festivals, and arts and cultural events — make this a really vibrant community to live in.

“The benefits for the local economy are also significant, not only for accommodation and hospitality businesses but beyond that as well.”