Redland City Council has endorsed a comprehensive events strategy and action plan as part of its suite of moves to stimulate the local economy.
Mayor Karen Williams said the Redland City Events Strategy and Action Plan 2017 – 2022, approved at today’s general meeting, would help define the Redlands as an events destination, boost jobs creation and support local businesses
“With our warm hospitality and lifestyle, community pride, arts and culture, the Redlands is ideally placed to attract event goers,” Cr Williams said.
You may also like these stories
“While we are already developing a great reputation with a range of unique local events, national sports events and cultural showcases, there are many more opportunities that we can pursue in our quest to become a premier events destination.
“This five-year plan provides a collective vision for the Redlands to become known as one of Australia’s most event-friendly destinations, with a balanced calendar of events across the City that attract visitors, boost the economy and enhance our community and cultural fabric.
“It is aimed at supporting existing events, building local community capacity to deliver exciting and sustainable events and attracting new events that fit our City’s events vision.
“Events are recognised as a major tourism attractor. Studies undertaken by Tourism Research Australia indicate that an event is the reason for 57% of first-time visitors to a region and 69% of repeat visitors.
“People are spending more disposable income on travel and attend – and expect more – from events and festivals, with the most popular being food and wine or music-related events.”
Cr Williams said the events strategy complemented the Redland City Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2015–2020 and Redland City Council Corporate Plan 2015–2020 as well as the work of the Redlands Economic Development Advisory Board.
“It is informed by local feedback and sets out how events operators, businesses, Council and other agencies can work together to achieve the vision by seizing opportunities for infrastructure, event promotion and networking as well as event coordination, development and investment,’’ Cr Williams said.
“Initiatives such as the formation of a ‘Red Team’ will clear the path for event organisers to meet with relevant stakeholders from Council and other agencies to discuss ideas and learn about available support, including our online resources, development opportunities and funding sources.
“It will help us to leverage opportunities such as those presented by the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the largest event to occur in Australia this decade. In addition, we are working towards having at least one signature event that is synonymous with the identity of Redland City and is recognised nationally.’’
The Redland City Events Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2022 is available on Council’s website.
