The Cessnock City visitor economy is set to benefit from a more vibrant events calendar with the Hunter Valley Wine and Beer Festival and welcome Dinner with Miguel amongst the 61 recipients of the Minns Labor Government’s 2025/26 Regional Event Fund.
State Member for Electorate of Cessnock Clayton Barr said the funds would help event organisers bring their event vision to life and make a valuable contribution to the Cessnock City visitor economy.
“I’m thrilled that Hunter Valley Wine and Beer Festival have received this funding from the NSW Government, amongst more than $1.3 million being awarded to event organisers across the state,” he said.
The Regional Event Fund forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to strengthening local communities and growing regional visitor economies.
The program provides grants of up to $50,000 to help bring events to life – from marketing and PR campaigns to infrastructure and equipment hire to enhance the visitor experience.
To view the full list of successful recipients and for more information on the program, visit www.destinationnsw.com.au/regional-event-fund-2025-26
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
“Regional events are the heartbeat of local communities – they celebrate what makes each region unique while also driving real economic benefits by attracting visitors, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
“This investment of more than $1.3 million will give certainty to event organisers across the state to elevate their offerings and reach new audiences.
“I congratulate all the recipients of the Regional Event Fund and thank them for their passion and dedication to ensuring regional NSW remains the nation’s premier destination for unforgettable regional visitor experiences.”
State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:
“This funding will help deliver an event Cessnock City can be proud of, while attracting visitors to fill our hotels, dine in our restaurants and explore our local attractions – all of which help stimulate the visitor economy.
“The Cessnock City boasts some of the best visitor experiences in the country. Events like Hunter Valley Wine and Beer Festival showcase the diversity, vibrancy and unique character of our region and play a vital role in driving visitation to support the communities, businesses and jobs that depend on our local visitor economy.”