Congratulations to the successful events across the Shoalhaven that secured funding through the latest round of the Destination NSW Regional Event Fund.
The Regional Event Fund plays an important role in strengthening the regional visitor economy by supporting events that attract visitors from outside their local area, encourage longer stays and showcase the unique experiences that make our region so special.
Successful Projects Across Our Region
Flagship Event Stream
- StoryFest 2027 – Milton
- OpenField Arts Festival – Berry
- Huskisson Beer & BBQ Festival – Huskisson
Incubator Event Stream
- Sow Good Festival – Ulladulla
It’s fantastic to see our region continue to secure investment in events that drive visitation, support local businesses and communities, and enhance our year-round events calendar. Congratulations to all successful recipients. We look forward to seeing these events come to life and the positive impact they’ll have on our communities and visitor economy.
Applications for the Regional Event Fund Event Development stream are still open. This stream supports established events that have previously completed funding through the Flagship Event stream, with grants of up to $50,000 available to help deliver strategic growth initiatives. If you think your event may be eligible, we encourage you to explore the opportunity and apply.
We would also like to Congratulate the 4 districts in your that have been selected as recipients of the Uptown Grant Program Round 4. Berry Social, Husky Co. Nowra.org.au and The Drive Sussex Inlet we have loved what you have done so far with the Uptown funding and are excited it will contunue.
The Uptown Program provides funding to District Teams for coordination and the delivery of new or enhanced collective initiatives. The purpose of the funding is to strengthen local business collaboration within districts, diversify the consumer offering, Improve awareness along with social, cultural and economic outcomes.
- Berry Social – Berry Social repositions Berry as a contemporary country-coastal destination designed for longer stays. Funding will support coordination, marketing and collective initiatives, including enhanced seasonal, multi-venue programs that combine live music, hospitality and curated itineraries with targeted promotions. This next iteration shifts from standalone events to a scalable, coordinated destination model that increases midweek visitation, local spend and year-round vibrancy.
- Husky Co. – Grounded in Huskisson’s coastal character and community spirit, Husky CO provides a coordinated platform to strengthen collaboration, support local enterprise and enhance the visitor economy. Funding will support coordination and collective initiatives across events, marketing, partnerships and economic development to ensure the District evolves as a vibrant, year-round destination for both visitors and the local community.
- Nowra.org.au – Nowra.org.au is a community-led movement rooted in authenticity, First Nations pride, and emerging creative culture. Funding will support coordination and collective initiatives including a busking program, a youth mural and film project, and open mic series, that draw locals and visitors into a CBD that is vibrant and inclusive district.
- The Drive Sussex Inlet – The Drive Sussex Inlet aims to highlight the events, food and entertainment experiences offered through the year in the small coastal community. Funding will support coordination and collective initiatives including a calendar of innovative events such as street parties, Blues and Brews Festival, First Nations Film Festival and wellness experiences that will increase visitation, community engagement, business viability and vibrant nightlife opportunities.
