Labor government supports woodend winter arts festival

The Andrews Labor Government is helping the Woodend Winter Arts Festival attract more visitors than ever before.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, today announced a $17,500 grant to help the Queen’s Birthday Weekend event with marketing and advertising, so that the region can welcome more visitors from all over Australia.

The Woodend Winter Arts Festival boasts a distinctive musical repertoire, ranging from renaissance to 20th century classical jazz. Visitors will enjoy visual arts and community events in churches, school halls, cafes and libraries.

Some 7500 people are expected to flock to the region for the event, including about 60 per cent from outside the district. They provide added opportunities for local bars, cafes and motels, and jobs for residents.

Victoria is the events capital of Australia, and the Labor Government wants it to stay that way. The Labor Government’s 2015-16 Victorian Budget includes an $80 million boost to Victoria’s events war chest, so that Victoria can continue to secure the events that deliver maximum benefits to the state.

The Labor Government will also invest $3 million to embark on an ambitious regional marketing campaign, highlighting regional Victoria’s treasures and showcasing our regions.

The Woodend Winter Arts Festival will run from June 10 – 13.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"The Woodend Winter Arts Festival showcases everything that makes our region unique. It’s a great celebration of arts, music and the community."

"It’s not just a great event, it’s a big boost to the local economy too. Events like these keep small businesses strong and provide jobs for locals."

Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren
"This grant will help the Woodend Winter Arts Festival market its great event and attract more visitors to the region."

"We are working hard to grow our calendar of events, because we know they mean a stronger regional Victoria."