The following is Forbes Shire Council’s statement on Vanfest.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Forbes Shire Mayor Graeme Miller is looking forward to the positive economic benefits Vanfest 2017 will bring to Forbes.
“So far ticket sales have already exceeded more than $500,000 from over 765 postcodes across Australia and with two months to go before the event on December 1 and 2, ticket sales will continue to grow,” Mayor Miller said.
“Council’s three-year licence of the event cost $270,000, which is payable over the 3 year term of the agreement. This licence fee will be offset by the contribution Council will receive from Destination NSW for sponsorship of the 2017 event.
“Under Council’s agreement, the professional event management services of Matt Clifton will continue and instead of contractor fees, remuneration is based on bar sales for alcohol.
“Council will receive as income all ticket sales, camping sales, site rental fees and other sponsorship.
“Council is focused on making sure Vanfest 2017 is the best one yet and will be taking a proactive approach to ensure local businesses and community groups continue to receive economic benefits from the festival by working closely with all stakeholders.
“This includes meetings with various business and community groups, promotions through local business houses, home hosting opportunities and bringing the festival goers to the Forbes CBD on Saturday morning.
“Ensuring the festival continues to be held in Forbes is also in line with the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027, where Council is committed to providing a range of community entertainment activities, providing promotion and support for major events and contributing to regional tourism initiatives and major events in the Central West.
“Forbes Shire Councillors have always acted in the best interests of the community and are extremely concerned about the continued attacks on social media against our Council, the community and the event.
“Hosting a music festival is going to be an exciting challenge for Council and we are looking forward to the next three years, continuing to position Forbes as a vibrant community at a state and national level.
“Council is committed to undertaking an extensive audit at the end of the festival which will not only look at the financials but will also incorporate all of the external benefits such as accommodation, food, transport, business houses and continue to measure community engagement and the national exposure and economic benefits Vanfest brings for Forbes.
“Vanfest is the single biggest event held in Forbes and Council looks forward to seeing the festival grow and prosper.”