Central Coast Council is inviting businesses, community groups and event organisers to propose an event or activity to be a part of the annual 10-day Lakes Festival program scheduled for November to celebrate the Coast’s diverse waterways.
The festival, to run from November 3-12, is an annual reminder of the variety of lakes and waterways available on the Central Coast.
The program brings together an array of local organisations and businesses to host a range of family-friendly activities or events each November.
Council Unit Manager Community and Culture Glenn Cannard said the festival is one of the region’s biggest events which debuts every spring and is made special by locals who host a variety of entertaining and innovative activities.
“The calendar of events linked to The Lakes Festival Program last year attracted over 20,000 festival goers,” Cannard said.
“This year we are continuing to seek expressions of interests from new and returning businesses, companies, organisations, and community groups who have a unique activity or event concept.
“No idea is too big or too small.
“Ideas can be anything centred around the theme or location of our waterways, from festivals, and sporting events to art events, outdoor installations, water education, workshops, and community events.
“A few examples we have previously had in our program include The Colour Run, Norah Head Lighthouse Festival, Clambake, Toukley Arts & Craft, Long Jetty Street Festival and Park Feast.”
The successful applicants for 2023 will benefit by being included in Council’s festival program and marketing campaign.
There is also the opportunity to apply for up to $5,000 in funding as part of the expression of interest application under the Event Innovation Funding program.
The funding is aimed at assisting events that meet the criteria upon application.
Suggested events should: facilitate a vibrant and innovative events culture within the Central Coast; encourage the development of tourism; and encourage the involvement of local residents (via) positive interaction, cultural activity and a strong community identity.
Council Administrator Rik Hart said the festival is a fun occasion which plays a significant role in teaching locals and tourists about our waterways.
“I’m excited to see what this year’s program has in store as The Lakes Festival is celebrated across the Coast and is made possible by the ideas and contributions of so many amazing local businesses, groups, and organisations,” Hart said.
“Our waterways are part of the Central Coast’s identity and it’s important to continue to celebrate and educate the local community and visitors alike.”
Submissions will close at 2pm on Monday, March 13.
To find out more, view the full guidelines and to get involved visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/eoi.
The Lakes Festival 2023 is sponsored by Mounties Group.
Source:
Media release, Feb 20
Central Coast Council