Following the very successful second outing for Hay’s Rainbow on the Plains Festival this year, the Federal Government has just announced a funding boost for the 2020 edition.
Member for Farrer and Federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley has announced a grant of $46,000 to the festival, one of 30 projects included in the latest round of funding for regional communities through the government’s Tackling Tough Times Together program.
Ms Ley said the drought-related funding grants are aimed to help keep money flowing through local shops and suppliers, boost tourism, retain jobs and create employment opportunities.
“While we are all hoping the drought is history by next March, this cash boost more than doubles the Festival committee’s budget, helping them market and build up the program for next year’s event.”
Established in 2018, ‘Rainbow on the Plains’ was originally planned as a simple get together by a group of friends to watch the 40th anniversary of Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
It has since grown to become a wonderful rural get-together, promoting community support and inclusion, celebrating with a street parade and party, alongside various events over three days.
Festival Executive Officer Jade Auldist said it was great to see our vision for this festival gaining momentum and the funding will allow Rainbow on the Plains to really ramp up into something special.
“We will soon be making announcements about high profile artists and shows, which have only been made possible by this grant.”
“Building the festival is important to spread the message of acceptance throughout our region, but in times of drought is vital for the local economy and the businesses in Hay that we want to see survive.”
$1m is being funded under Round 14 of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together program, part of $7b in ongoing and future Australian Government support for regions affected by drought.
Last Updated on Nov 1, 2019
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