Smart money for South-West events study and Noongar artist postcards

7/7/05
The economic importance of major community and sporting events will be the focus of a new study launched today by South-West Minister Mark McGowan.
Mr McGowan said the State Government had pledged $10,000 to Smart Events Inc to look at 10 events currently being held in the South-West.
The funding has come from EventsCorp and the South West Development Commission, which has developed an evaluation program.
The Minister said events were a big generator of economic wealth and the study would help in two ways.
"Firstly, it will measure exactly what the benefits are, and secondly, it will make recommendations on how the benefits can be maximised," he said.
The South-West hosts hundreds of events every year, ranging from local shows to international sporting contests.
"For example, data collected from the Nannup Music Festival indicates that the event generates $663,000 of new spending in the town," Mr McGowan said.
"What this study will aim to do is look at ways of maximising that spend to benefit the local community."
The 10 events to be evaluated include Aussie Cars in the Loop, Balingup Medieval Carnival?, Blues At Bridgetown Festival, Boyanup Farmers Markets, Brunswick Agricultural Show, Capel Fest, Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival, Margaret River Wine Region Festival, Nannup Music Festival and the Quit Respect Yourself Forest Rally.
On a visit to the South-West, the Minister also announced funding for a series of postcards featuring the work of indigenous Noongar artists.
Handing over $5,000 funding to the project, Mr McGowan said the postcards would help showcase the artists' work to the world.
"The postcards depict the story of the six seasons of the Noongar calendar," he said.
"Noongar people believe the year is divided into six distinct seasons and these postcards reflect that belief and tell the story behind it.
"The postcards are an excellent way for Noongar culture to be shared and to celebrate some of the fine art that is being produced in the region."
All proceeds raised from the sale of the cards will go to the Aboriginal Arts Development Fund, which has been set up to assist local artists.
Mr McGowan congratulated the South West Development Commission's Aboriginal economic development officer, Flyn Narkle, for his work on the project.
The Minister said today's announcements reflected the Gallop Government's commitment to providing new opportunities for Western Australians and ensuring regional WA receives its fair share.
Minister's office: 9222 9111