A much-loved Sunshine Coast event has been secured for another three years, but not until after a robust debate in yesterday’s ordinary council meeting.
The Caloundra Music Festival (CMF) attracts fans and musicians from far and wide, injecting more than $3 million into the local economy each year.
Sunshine Coast councillors yesterday decided to provide $275,000 in funding for CMF for another three years until 2025, but only after concerns around risks to economic sustainability were raised.
Cr Maria Suarez suggested the festival only be funded for one year and that the council seek funding for the next two years from sources other than its general revenue.
Cr Suarez also suggested some of that alternative funding to come from the Caloundra central business district parking fund.
After a lengthy debate, Cr Suarez’s suggestion was defeated by the majority of councillors, due to it bringing too much uncertainty around CMF’s future.
The council heard the festival continued to provide affordable, family-friendly entertainment to a broad demographic, performance opportunities for local artists and support for charities, venues, businesses, accommodation providers and schools.
The event also promotes accessibility, diversity and inclusivity, and attracts more than 500 volunteers.
The 2022 festival marked 15 years at the iconic beachside location of Kings Beach.
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Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg said the festival was a much-loved event that was great for the region.
“Delivering this festival fosters economic benefits, cultural development and community outcomes, and continues to evolve environmental sustainability,” Cr Landsberg said.
“We have plenty of achievements to show over the past 15 years, from infrastructure improvements around Kings Beach Parklands, to showcasing our very own local high school students on the festival stage and helping Caloundra State School’s Parents and Friends Association raise thousands of dollars for school programs.
“With all the challenges faced by the industry – the COVID-19 pandemic, weather events, financial challenges and venue closures – it’s important now, more than ever, that we get behind this festival.
“Our festival provides real opportunities for emerging Sunshine Coast musicians to perform in a world-class environment alongside major international and national artists.”
Last year’s event showcased 70 artists, including 30 local acts.
The 2019 CMF was awarded Queensland Live Event of the Year at the National Live Music Awards and also received a third nomination in the Queensland Music Awards for the Festival of the Year people’s choice category.
Related story: ‘Change the date’: event expert shreds festival timing
Artist applications are now open for the festival, which will run from September 29 to October 1, 2023.
Artists and festival fans can follow on Facebook and Instagram @caloundramusicfestival or visit the website.
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