REGIONAL EVENTS FUNDING FOR BATHURST ELECTORATE

Fantastic news for the Bathurst Electorate with three events receiving their share of funding from the $1.3 million 2026/27 Regional Event Fund.

56 grassroots events across regional NSW have received grants of up to $50,000 to go toward marketing, PR, infrastructure and equipment hire.

In Lithgow the Seven Valleys Wild Food Festival will become a flagship event for the region celebrating local food, creativity and community. Planned for February 2027, this will be the second festival of its kind focusing on food that is gathered, foraged, discovered, or produced beyond the boundaries of conventional processes. The event transforms Lithgow’s Main Street into an evening of vibrant activity including markets, food stalls and entertainment.

In Kandos, bi-annual arts festival Cementa has also received funding to increase their profile and encourage visitation over two years. The much-anticipated Beatlesfest based in Bathurst which has fast become a regional flagship event has also received funding to boost its profile.

In Bathurst, two new events will be developed to increase tourism and showcase what our region has to offer, one being a twilight market and the other being part of a wider nighttime celebration.

In May 2027, Harvest After Dark will celebrate harvest time for local farmers. It will be part of a series of events delivered next year under the banner Bx After Dark boosting the Bathurst regional night-time economy and coinciding with established events such as the Bathurst 12 Hour. Laneways will be brought to life and cultures from across the world will be celebrated by a multitude of local businesses.

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole welcomed today’s announcement as a much-needed tourism boost for the region.

“These are exactly the type of events our region needs to continue to create a vibrant, bustling region,” Mr Toole said.

“Regional events are more than just great days out, they are powerful economic drivers that support local businesses, create jobs and showcase everything our community has to offer.

“Every visitor who comes to our region spends money in our cafes, restaurants, hotels, motels, retail stores and attractions like these grow our local economy and helps businesses grow with confidence.”