The program opens today and provides one year grants of $10,000 and three year grants totalling $60,000 to support the marketing and advertising of regional events and festivals to outside visitors.

“Events are important to regional communities, as they reflect the unique character of local areas and attract visitors who contribute to local economies,” Mr Stoner said.

“Regional events and festivals are important contributors to driving overnight visitors to our State.

“Last year, regional NSW events played an important role in delivering an impressive 74 million nights of accommodation and $9.8 billion in visitor expenditure.

“Since March 2011, the NSW Government has provided more than $1.5 million in direct funding for 125 events under the Regional Flagship Events Program, helping to encourage interstate and international visitors to come to NSW.

“There are many fantastic events already set to receive funding in 2015 under existing three-year agreements, including Hunter Valley Food and Wine Month, Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft, Chromefest at The Entrance, Eden Whale Festival, Orange F.O.O.D Week, Griffith La Festa, and Tastes at the Bay in Port Stephens.

“These are great examples of events with broad appeal and which clearly reflect the character and experiences on offer in the regions in which they are held.”

Expressions of interest for the 2015 Regional Flagship Events Program are open until 1 September 2014 and successful applicants will be invited to make full submissions later in the year.

Full submissions are assessed by an expert advisory panel according to set criteria, with successful applicants to be advised in December 2014.

For further information, and to lodge an expression of interest, please visit dnsw.com.au/rfe

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