State Government boost for Queensland's events

Regions throughout Queensland are to receive $975,100 in funding for 49 events through the highly successful Events Queensland Regional Development Program (EQRDP).
Announcing the funding Queensland Premier Anna Bligh explained "this is about supporting events that bring in tourists to spend in shops, restaurants and hotels.
"Events create a new reason for people to visit and are a great way to promote an area.
"This funding is supporting regional events that attract tourists, increase economic activity, support jobs, entertain locals and boost community spirit."
Queenslanders will also have a unique chance to participate in events that are recognised as some of the most challenging in Australia, with Premier Bligh adding "the Goondiwindi Hell of the West Triathlon, The Tour of Toowoomba Cycling Classic, the Cairns to Karumba Bike Ride and the Pentath Run in Warwick all provide participants with a chance to test their physical and endurance capabilities."
Team sports are again a major part of Queensland's regional event calendar with two major national masters football events as well as the North Queensland Games in Mackay.
This funding round will also provide support to a unique range of cultural events, proving, according to Premier Blight "that the State really has something for everyone.
"For the first time, the Port Douglas Carnivale will be recognised as a Major Event under the Funding Program, demonstrating the outstanding potential that this event is now realising.
"Attracting 20,000 visitors from around Australia and internationally, it has become a true showcase for Tropical North Queensland."
Premier Bligh said she was impressed with the long-term approach many events were taking to building economic growth in their regions, adding that "the Events Queensland Regional Development Program has a very strong track record for assisting events to put their towns and regions on the map."
This Program is also providing support for events that reflect on Queensland's heritage and its unique history.
Round 19 of the Regional Development Program is contributing $975,100 to 49 events across Queensland. A total of $16.4 million has been invested in 762 events across Queensland since the program began in 2001.
Submissions for Round 20 of the Regional Development Program will close on 11th February 2011 for projects held from 1st July 2011 up to and including 31st December 2012.