Regional event development and promotion

Events are an important vehicle for local governments to engage with residents, businesses and key stakeholders. Events provide an opportunity for interaction with the community and, if well targeted, can foster a sense of place by communicating values of the destination and build civic pride.

Events can also improve a destination's profile which may become a catalyst for attracting new audiences and investment to the region. Member Councils in Perth's Eastern Region host and support a vibrant event program with events suited to both residents and visitors.

The EMRC supports the development and promotion of two key regional festival programs; Perth's Autumn Festival and the Avon Descent Family Fun Days. The EMRC facilitates regional collaboration amongst member Councils and stakeholders with the aim of leveraging partner funding, increasing efficiency, expanding market reach and cross-promotion.

Perth's Autumn Festival

Perth's Autumn Festival is a six week program of events selected by member Councils including one tourism event and one cycling event per Council.

The EMRC contracts an event management company to perform the following functions;

• Support event managers in the development of event business plans;
• Coordinate public relations; and
• Produce a collaborative multi-media marketing campaign, including radio, brochure and online elements.

More information on the Perth's Autumn Festival is available at: www.perthtourism.com.au/perths-autumn-festival.html

Avon Descent Family Fun Days

Avon Descent Family Fun Days are a series of family-orientated events held annually along the banks of the Avon and Swan Rivers on the first weekend of August with the aim of engaging local communities and visitors with the Avon Descent white water race.

Since 2004 the EMRC has applied and acquitted funding from Lotterywest on behalf of the member Councils and the Shires of Toodyay and Northam. Lotterywest funding supports member Councils to meet costs of staging Family Fun Days including; event infrastructure, entertainment, community engagement activities and promotion. This funding also supports a significant collaborative regional marketing campaign coordinated by the EMRC.

More information on the Avon Descent Family Fun Days is available at: www.perthtourism.com.au/avon-descent.html