Council and CQUniversity Village Festival Partnership to boost region’s tourism drawcard

Livingstone Shire Council is thrilled to announce its partnership with the CQUniversity Village Festival in support of the iconic event, after securing a three-year agreement.

The funding of $98,000 over the three-year partnership from 2021 will see Council not only provide funding support but also includes street banners, car branding and professional photography, as well as other in-kind support.

The festival is known for its significant live music programme, a vast array of performing and visual arts productions, street theatre, workshops, food and market stalls and children's activities.

Mayor Andy Ireland said this was fantastic news for not only Livingstone Shire but also the wider Central Queensland region whose residents travel to be part of the popular annual week-long event.

“The Village Festival is unique to our Shire and celebrates the brilliant music, arts and culture that has been cultivated by a number of talented individuals and groups over the years,” Cr Ireland said.

“The event will also assist in providing substantial economic uplift to local businesses as the region commences its recovery from COVID-19.

“Council is proud to support this signature event which remains a huge drawcard for the region and encourages residents and the wider community to take part in the celebrations.”

CQUniversity Village Festival Chair, Phil Henry, said while COVID-19 had resulted in the scaling back of this year’s event, scheduled for 7 – 16 August, 2021 onwards will be bigger and better.

“The Festival Board is currently working to stage a few small events this year that will provide entertainment, as well as giving some paid work to artists and support crew whose incomes ceased because of COVID-19,” Mr Henry said.

“However the new, ongoing funding from Council, including local marketing, gives us reassurance to plan for bigger and better into the future. We are very grateful for this level of support.”

CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said the University has been a long-time supporter of the Festival and is proud to be naming rights partner.

“CQUniversity is deeply committed to our communities and is proud to play a part in enriching the region through our strong partnership with the CQUniversity Village Festival. We recognise the absolute significance of this event and the growth and opportunity it generates for the community,” Prof. Klomp said.

Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll said the CQUniversity Village Festival provides a premier event experience, providing a much-needed economic boost as the region continues to recover.

“The CQUniversity Village Festival positions the Capricorn Coast as a fantastic event destination, reflecting an enviable coastal village lifestyle, which brings focus to our simply stunning locations on the shores of the Southern Great Barrier Reef,” Ms Carroll said.

“It has been wonderful to see this event grow over the years, thanks to the hard work and generosity of community volunteers and financial support from sponsors.

“Capricorn Enterprise and Tourism & Events Queensland consider this event to be a key driver of our visitor economy, attracting high value travellers from throughout Queensland and interstate.”