Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council have been successful in receiving grant funding under the Open Streets Program led by Transport for NSW. The Starry Nights festivals and events will foster a sense of community spirit and togetherness, bringing neighbours, friends, and families together to celebrate and showcase local talent and the regions attractions.
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) are now calling for EOI’s from interested organisations to plan and manage these upcoming festivals and events.
Funding to the value of $121,600 has been secured to host four events, two in Cootamundra and two in Gundagai. The events will include:
- Wattle Time Festival to be held on 7 September 2024 – EOI closing date 19 July 2024.
- Festival of Gundagai to be held on 21 September 2024 – EOI closing date 19 July 2024.
- Christmas on Sheridan Street Party to be held in Gundagai 6 December 2024 – EOI closing date 30th August 2024.
- Sparkling Streets Christmas Party to be held on the 12 December 2024 in Cootamundra – EOI closing date 30th August 2024.
Council has allocated $36,500 for each of the festival events and $24,300 for the Christmas events and invites local community groups in both Cootamundra and Gundagai to submit their Expression of Interest if they wish to organise any of the above events.
Any successful organisation will be required to enter a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which will cover the event objectives, roles and responsibilities, regulatory conditions, complying with the funding agreement, procurement procedures (with a strong LGA first focus) and financial arrangements. A specific budget will be provided for all aspects of the event organisations (in accordance with the grant application).
CGRC Tourism and Economic Development Officer, Ms Leah Sutherland said planning and managing these types of events can assist organisations with skills expansion, promotion of the group and its values.
“To have a local community group plan and manage a local event keeps the event local, they are best placed to understand what is important to the community and what makes these events successful. It gives them the opportunity to engage with other community groups, getting them involved and expanding on opportunities that may arise through that interaction,” Ms Sutherland said.
“We want to see our organisations and or community service groups take ownership of these important occasions to ensure longevity and growth. The continuous improvement and development of these events benefits the community as a whole,” Ms Sutherland added.
All information can be found on the CGRC Website at the following link: FESTIVAL & EVENT EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council (nsw.gov.au)
