Mofo cash plea to boost its northern exposure

TASMANIA’S “rock star” Premier Will Hodgman has been asked to help fund Mofo’s permanent move to the state’s North after an inaugural event in Launceston which community leaders have labelled “absolutely brilliant”.

The “northern capital” was filled to capacity at the weekend as it hosted the Mofo festival and Beerfest at Royal Park.

Festival curator and Violent Femmes bassist Brian Ritchie said organisers were seeking $8 million from the government over four years to help relocate the drawcard.

Mr Ritchie said funding security would allow organisers to talk to the Launceston Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other city groups to ensure the city was ready to become the permanent home of Mofo.

Mofo, usually held in Hobart, partially shifted north this year and organisers plan to move the entire festival to Launceston from next year.

“This event was put together quickly but we need to hear from the Government soon so we can talk to the chamber to get them to talk to operators and ensure they can accommodate the crowds which will build as Mofo becomes established in Launceston,” Mr Ritchie said.

A government spokesman said there would be news on that front soon.

“Mofo is an iconic Tasmanian event and we have provided significant support for it over the past decade. We will continue to discuss future funding arrangements with Mona and will have more to say soon,” he said.

Chris Griffin, from Tourism Northern Tasmania, said hotels were at 90 per cent capacity over the weekend.

“A combination of Mofo and the Beerfest has created just an absolute premium weekend for both locals and visitors to the city,” Mr Griffin said.

“The vibe around town was