Zoe Moffatt
Macedon Ranges festivals and events are continuing to increase following COVID-19, with council awarding 12 grants at its meeting on July 26.
The council events and festivals grant program provides financial and in-kind support to events that deliver social and economic benefits to the community.
Council received 15 applications for the 2023-24 grant program, which is an increase from the 12 applications received last year.
Planning and environment director Rebecca Stockfeld said this shows an increase in festivals and events, and that people see the value of council support.
“We are pleased to say that this year the program was oversubscribed, which indicates a post COVID desire for people to present festivals and events in the shire,” Ms Stockfeld said.
“Council received 15 applications and [we recommend] that 12 of these be awarded funding, the remaining three did not meet the grant criteria or desired grant outcomes.”
Kyneton Community and Learning Centre Incorporated will receive $3000 in funding each year for the next three years to go towards the Kyneton Twilight Festival and Market.
Director Claire Rawlinson said the funding commitment has provided relief and security that they will be able to hold the event for the next three years.
“It’s awesome and it’s great to know for the next three years we can deliver the festival to Kyneton,” Ms Rawlinson said.
“It started in 2018, before [stopping due] to COVID-19, and it returned last year. It’s an important event for us that brings local businesses, small start ups and the community.
“Knowing we have funding for three years is really revealing… it [gives] us a lot of security without having to think every year about where the money is coming from.”
Ms Rawlinson said people have already asked about this year’s event, which will be held on the first Saturday of December.
“There’s already people reaching out about it,” she said. “I’m sure it will be just as good as last year, if not better.
“It encompasses something for everyone, there’s the potential to shop local for Christmas, there’s entertainment, kids activities.
“It’s not only about buying and selling, it’s about community unification and inclusivity.”
