News that Mona Foma will remain in the North has been celebrated by the community, with the festival to bring a major artistic, economic, and tourism boom in January.
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The state government announced a commitment of $1.75 million a year for three years to secure the festival’s move to the region.
The festival originally sought $2 million funding a year for four years.
MONA co-chief executive Mark Wilsdon said Launceston “really embraced” the mini-Mofo held across the city in January.
“We weren’t interested in putting together a watered down Mona Foma. This funding means we’ll be able to do it, and do it properly,” he said.
“We are enthused by the hunger of the audience, and the opportunity with new spaces and new venues, and we look forward to all those benefits.
“We trust that the people of Launceston will get behind us. Lookout, here we come.”
Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said the festival’s success this year was “a testament to the people of Northern Tasmania”.
He said the council was delighted by the funding commitment, and was “definitely excited” about working with the Mona Foma team again.
Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery director Richard Mulvaney was thrilled.
"The centrepiece of this year's mini-Mofo event was a Block Party at QVMAG and what a success it was - our courtyard was packed with people in bright onesies, having a sensational time eating, drinking and dancing the day away,” he said.
"We're thrilled the festival is returning to Launceston and are excited to see what more fun can roll out throughout the city. Bring back the onesies."
Launceston Chamber of Commerce executive officer Neil Grose said the funding would grow Launceston’s visitor economy and develop its art scene.
“Every great regional city in the world has a vibrant arts scene and this funding announcement ensures Launceston will also be able to make that claim,” he said.
- Mona Foma will be held in January 2019, with dates announced in August.
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