Regional events coming up roses with support across the state

The largest garden festival in the country, food and beverage celebrations in world-class wine regions, and beloved festivals on the sea are just some of the events supported in this year’s Regional Event Fund.

The South Australian Tourism Commission’s Regional Event Fund 2023-24 will support 33 developing and established regional events across the state, helping drive visitation and continuing to grow South Australia’s record-breaking regional visitor economy.

Latest data shows regional tourism reached an all-time high $4.47 billion in the 12 months to March 2023, up 25 per cent on pre pandemic levels.

The 10-day Riverland Rose and Garden Festival held at venues across the Riverland from Renmark to Waikerie and Loxton, is one of the 33 regional events being supported in 2023-24. Driving visitation across the region and encouraging visitors to linger longer, the event will further support flood recovery efforts in the Murray River communities.

The Regional Event Fund is managed by the SATC, through Events South Australia, and provides financial and marketing support to attract and grow tourism events. The annual program aims to strengthen the state’s regional events calendar and drive increased visitation and economic stimulus to the regional economy.

Applications for the 2024/25 Regional Event Fund will open in February 2024.

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said this year’s Regional Event Fund will support a wonderful range of regional events which help attract more visitors across South Australia and build on the state’s record-breaking $4.47 billion regional visitor economy.

"We know events are a key economic driver for our local economies, giving visitors a reason to book a trip ‘right now’ – and the Regional Event Fund highlights just how many unique experiences there are to enjoy across our state," Minister Bettison said.

"I am particularly delighted to see support for the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival, as this will help motivate visitors to head to our Murray River regions and linger longer, further supporting operators recovering from the once-in-a-century flooding event.

"Visitors can enjoy firsthand the benefits of the Regional Event Fund this weekend, with two terrific regional events. The Adelaide Hills’ popular Winter Reds festival will celebrate the best of this world-renowned wine region, while the Willunga Almond Blossom Festival offers a weekend of show rides, family activities, and food, wine and beer stalls in the Fleurieu."

Riverland Rose and Garden Festival President/Open Gardens Co-ordinator, Michelle Dominic said the Riverland is the largest grape growing area in Australia, and likewise, the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival is the largest garden festival Australia wide.

"Last year we saw 3,000 people visit the area, providing a boost to tourism, supporting local accommodation and businesses – and we are expecting an increase in visitors this year," Ms Dominic said.

"With 27 open gardens this year – the most we’ve ever had for the duration of the festival – there will be no lack of inspiration for visitors.

"From small courtyard gardens to others on a grand scale, as well as highlights such as The Floral display in Renmark, an annual Gala Dinner in Loxton, and The Festival Fair, this event brings a vibrancy to the Riverland that people of all ages can enjoy, while showcasing all our beautiful region has to offer."

Events supported through the 2023-24 Regional Event Fund:

More information: tourism.sa.gov.au/support/regional-event-fund.