Unfortunately some of our great community events suffer inevitable backlash, however this is often unwarranted.
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Tonight Festivale officially opens.
Now, this event isn’t just some wine and cheese in a park. It has grown and developed into the premier food and wine event in our region and, arguably, Tasmania.
Last year the state government announced Festivale would receive $80,000 per year for three years.
The funds would be used to continue to promote the festival at a national level and to build on the current figures of about 25,000 visitors across three days.
Festivale also has an estimated economic impact of more than $5 million.
The state government also contributes $50,000 to Hobart’s Taste and also provides in-kind support. It gives the event free use of the venue.
Festivale demonstrates an ideal partnership between community and industry.
The event is a highlight on the summer calendar for patrons and the many businesses, such as accommodation, who benefit from the influx of visitors.
The 25,000-plus people who walk through the gates of City Park have an opportunity to do more than just buy food or wine.
However, some people are quick to criticise ticket prices.
The most expensive day is the Saturday with a $25 entry for an adult or $60 two adults and four children (14 and under).
That day also gives you access to headliners the Choirboys. Tonight will be Claire Bowditch and on Sunday music legend Renee Geyer will take to the stage.
There will be children’s entertainment and our local musicians have an opportunity to perform at a professional event.
Award-winning and celebrity chef Karen Martini will host a free cooking demonstration alongside some of Launceston’s highly acclaimed chefs.
And then there are all the stallholders. This is a chance to sample some of our finest produce. To talk to the people who are running their own small businesses. They are capitalising on Tasmania’s strengths in terms of our innovation and culture.
Hopefully many of the patrons will discover a new favourite place and plan a weekend to visit that store or vineyard.
We must embrace events like Festivale and look at the whole picture. Regardless of whether you attend or not, Northern Tasmania will be the true beneficiary.
