Tourism and events boost

Victorian Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford believes a State Government commitment to regional tourism and sporting events will help boost economies across western Victoria, including the Wimmera.

Ms Pulford said funding in the state budget included a new grants scheme that regional tourism boards could apply through to attract visitors and develop new events. This is designed to boost economic activity and job opportunities.

Ms Pulford said the government had already supported more than 160 events across regional Victoria, with the figure to increase with the new Regional Events and Innovation Fund.

“We want to bring more events to western Victoria because they create jobs, fill our hotels, attract new visitors and strengthen our local economy,” she said.

“We’re backing tourism operators and providing the support our region needs to grow, so it’s important for tourism boards and councils to apply for funding.”

Ms Pulford said the government would also provide money for regional event organisers, sporting associations, venue operators and municipal councils to help launch bids to host more national or international sporting events.

She said the budget included $17.7-million for the government’s Significant Sporting Events Program, which had funded more than 300 events across the state.

People seeking information can visit www.sport.vic.gov.au.