Published on
August 25, 2025
Kiama Council has recently announced an exciting investment of more than $81,000 into the local economy through Round 1 of its 2025-2026 Destination Event Funding Program. This funding initiative is designed to support a diverse array of events aimed at enhancing the region’s cultural, social, and economic landscape, while attracting tourists and enriching the local visitor economy.
A Commitment to Community and Tourism Growth
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald expressed his enthusiasm for the funding initiative, which plays a vital role in supporting tourism and local businesses. He highlighted that the funding will help improve the cultural and social fabric of the area while providing opportunities for local residents to engage with new and exciting events. With a wide range of events, including music festivals, sporting events, and community festivals, the funding is intended to make a significant impact on the local economy.
The Kiama Council’s Destination Event Funding Program, held annually in two rounds, underscores the Council’s strong commitment to fostering tourism and enhancing the visitor economy in the region. The funding program also provides vital financial support for events that contribute to Kiama’s overall development, ensuring both residents and visitors can experience the best the area has to offer.
A Diverse and Vibrant Lineup of Events
The 2025-2026 Destination Event Funding program has awarded significant funding to several local events, which include a mix of long-standing favourites and new initiatives that promise to excite attendees. Established events such as the Jamberoo Car Show, Changing Tides Music Festival, and Kiama Sevens Rugby Tournament are receiving continued support, while fresh events like the Burnetts Garden Sounds Festival and YOHKA Redline Games are being introduced, offering something for everyone.
Events Funded in Round 1 of 2025-2026:
The funding has been distributed across various types of events that cater to the region’s diverse interests, from music and sports to cultural festivals and health-related activities. Each event is an opportunity to enhance the local visitor experience and promote Kiama as a hub for exciting and engaging community events.
Long-Term Support for Key Events
In addition to funding for individual events, Kiama Council has also committed to providing multi-year funding for several ongoing and popular events that continue to attract large numbers of visitors to the region. This long-term support ensures the sustainability and growth of key events within Kiama’s cultural and tourism calendar. The following events have been selected to receive continued funding:
- Sydney FC Kiama Football Festival
- Jamberoo Car Show & Family Day
- Burnetts Garden Sounds Festival
- Kiama Sevens Rugby Tournament
- Kiama Beach Tag
- Crooked River Winter Wine Festival
The ongoing financial backing from the Council reflects the events’ success and importance in helping to build a vibrant local tourism industry. The diverse range of activities offered by these events provides something for all tastes, ensuring that residents and tourists alike can enjoy a variety of experiences throughout the year.
A Balanced Approach to Economic Growth
Kiama’s Destination Event Funding Program is designed to strike a balance between fostering economic growth and enriching the local community. By investing in events that showcase the region’s cultural, social, and sporting strengths, Kiama Council aims to build a sustainable tourism industry that can continue to thrive in the coming years. This approach not only supports local businesses but also provides valuable opportunities for residents and visitors to come together and celebrate what makes Kiama unique.
Council’s ongoing commitment to this program is also aligned with their financial sustainability goals. Kiama is currently operating under a Performance Improvement Order and remains on track to achieve a balanced budget by 2027. The Destination Event Funding Program is a key part of this strategy, contributing to both economic recovery and future growth.
Preparing for Round 2 of the Destination Event Funding Program
Looking forward, Kiama Council is calling for applications for the second round of its 2025-2026 Destination Event Funding Program, which will open in December. This is an opportunity for local event organisers and community members to submit proposals for funding in the next round, contributing to an even more diverse range of events that will benefit Kiama’s economy and residents.
Destination Kiama Chair Cr Matt Brown encouraged individuals and organisations with bold event ideas to prepare their bids for Round 2. Whether a well-established event or a new idea aimed at attracting visitors from outside the area, all submissions are welcome. This open call ensures that Kiama’s event calendar remains fresh and exciting, bringing new experiences to both locals and visitors.
Conclusion: Kiama’s Growing Cultural and Economic Landscape
Kiama’s $81,000 investment in local events highlights the Council’s commitment to supporting the region’s cultural, social, and economic growth. The Destination Event Funding Program has proven to be an effective way to stimulate tourism, enhance the local economy, and provide enriching experiences for residents and visitors alike. With a strong lineup of funded events in 2025-2026, Kiama is poised to continue growing as a vibrant destination for both cultural and sporting events.
The Council’s efforts are creating a lasting impact on the community, making Kiama a place where both locals and tourists can enjoy a wide range of memorable experiences. With additional funding opportunities in the future, Kiama’s tourism industry is set to flourish, providing new avenues for engagement and economic development.
