Community
16 September, 2024
Carnivale garners $5m
THIS year’s Port Douglas Carnivale broke through the $5 million dollar mark for the first time.
According to survey data collected post event, there were more than 11,000 spectators while economic and tourism impacts totalled $5,093,157.
More than 90 per cent of respondents to the survey believe local residents should feel proud of Carnivale and that the event added to the appeal of the Douglas Shire.
Nearly six in every 10 respondents felt it was better than other events they had attended.
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the results were pleasing but not surprising.
“Carnivale has grown and evolved over the past 30 years, catering to people of all ages and interests,” she said.
“(The) council is constantly looking at ways to improve and change the event to ensure local residents and visitors keep coming back year after year,” she said.
Planning for 2025 has started with the council seeking expressions of interest to plan and deliver events for the 31st edition of Carnivale.
“This is a great opportunity to produce and present an event that drives visitation, instils community pride and celebrates the Carnivale,” Cr Scomazzon said.
“Carnivale has a long history of many celebrated different events and ideas – you have the opportunity to bring back the good old days or introduce new events that could add to the celebration,” she said.
The council is seeking expressions of interest from businesses, the community and event organisers for the 2025 event from May 16-25.
“This is your opportunity to create an event that is attractive to both locals and visitors. It’s all about the tropical lifestyle, the wonderful people and magic of the region,” a council spokesman said.
“Food, wine, art, sport, music, theatre and everything in between can be celebrated and experienced at Carnivale.
“Opportunities for signature Carnivale events include the Saturday night concert, Sunday afternoon concert, the Long Lunch event and the seafood event.”
Events will be chosen on the suitability and fit within the Carnivale program and meet Carnivale objectives.
The selection criteria include:
A signature event for the region or capacity to become one
Showcase artists and businesses in a new way
Showcases the region in fresh ways
Community benefit / engagement
Generate media coverage that attracts visitors to the region
Alignment with events in the region
Proven track record of successful event management Innovation and creativity.
Applications close on September 27. Visit: https://bit.ly/4cWiI3W
