Report recommends governance overhaul for Daylesford Macedon Ranges Tourism following festival failure

An overhaul of some of the operations of Daylesford Macedon Ranges (DMR) Tourism is among the recommendations of a report into the failed Live. Love. Life Festival.

A lack of governance structures and capability to deliver a Festival on that scale in its first year were the key points addressed by the independent report into DMR Tourism’s activities, which recommended the implementation of new governance practices, the establishment of a Finance and Risk Committee, re-prioritisation of core business delivery and a review of criteria assessment for regional events by Visit Victoria.

The failure of the Festival, which was cancelled shortly before it was due to launch, led to Visit Victoria having to inject $175,000 into DRM Tourism by bringing forward a part of the next instalment of its Regional Marketing Partnership grant funding.

In addition, the tourism body will still require further funding from Visit Victoria and the Victorian Government.

The report also recommended that the organisation instigate quarterly financial cash flow reporting for a minimum period of two years while continuing to look at ways to cut costs. A closer working relationship with Hepburn and Macedon Ranges Shire Councils was also highlighted, with representatives of both councils offered positions on the board.

Speaking to The Ballarat Courier, DMR Tourism Chief Executive Steve Wroe said the body “fully accepted” the report’s findings, adding “(we) will commit to the recommendations that will ensure the sustainable future of our organisation.

“DMR Tourism is already working to resolve these issues, rebuild relationships with community groups and re-establish trust in our organisation.”

Visit Victoria Chief Executive Peter Bingeman said it was “important that we get Daylesford Macedon Tourism back on its feet, delivering the support local operators need.”