Featured image credit: Harry Grout on Unsplash
Northern Territory residents and visitors to the Australian state will be able to enjoy a jam-packed events calendar in 2023, thanks to a A$2.34m (£1.3m/$1.6m/€1.5m) funding boost through the local government’s Event Funding Programme (EFP).
The Northern Territory Government’s funding is administered by Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC). Categories of funding include community, event development, mass participation and major events.
Twenty-five of the events awarded were granted multi-year deals, meaning organisers can plan for future editions.
Some of the events that have received funding include the Big Name, No Blankets NT Community Tour, which is a travelling rock-and-roll theatre show. Further events and organisations such as the Darwin Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Rhythm of the 90s’ concert, Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta, Katherine Junk Festival, Alice Springs Beanie Festival, Chariots of Thunder Sprintcar Series and Barunga have all received funding.
The local government believes that events are an important contributor to the Northern Territory economy. Research demonstrated that the 22 supported events that took place in 2021-22 delivered a gross expenditure stimulus of A$39.8m to the local area.
Acting Minister for Major Events, Nicole Manison, said: “We all know Territorians run the best events. Whether it be our major music and cultural festivals, sporting events or community events, the Territory provides the most unique experiences in the nation.
“Our events calendar is critical to our tourism and hospitality sectors, and is a major contributor to the Territory economy.
“That’s why the Northern Territory Government keeps on backing the brilliant team at NTMEC to support our events and organisers. We are focused on growing the calendar every year and that’s what we are delivering in 2023.”
Darwin Symphony Orchestra general manager Kate Stephens added: “We are delighted to receive support through the Event Funding Program for our iconic Amphitheatre concerts over the next three years, starting with our Rhythm of the 90s show next year. This funding allows us to continue bringing this much-loved event to life, and further enhance the audience experience for Territorians and visitors alike.
“Rhythm of the 90s will be an unmissable throwback party, featuring the finest of Territory talent in our full symphony orchestra and front band. Celebrating the best pop hits, Aussie favourites, hip hop classics and metal legends, this performance truly has something for everybody to enjoy.
“The concert gives thousands of Territorians access to a world-class concert presentation in the beautiful setting of the Darwin Botanic Gardens. This family-friendly and accessible event is entry by donation, and we encourage everybody to come together and enjoy a night of entertainment.”
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