FL0ODS GET EVENT ORGANISERS A TIME EXTENSION

Events organisers in flood affected areas of Queensland have been granted an extension today. Premier Anna Bligh said events in those areas will have an extra two weeks to submit their funding applications under the Queensland Events Regional Development Program (QERDP).

QERDP applications were due to close on Friday 13 February 2009, but the Queensland Government, through Queensland Events, will extend the deadline from event organisers in those areas affected by flooding to Friday 27 February 2009.

To ensure eligibility, event organisers must contact the QERDP Secretariat in Townsville on 1300 881 255 by close of business on Friday 13 February 2009 to register that they will be submitting their application late due to flooding issues.

“Queenslanders enjoy an amazing array of events every weekend and I understand the hardship that many people are facing and I want these communities to have the opportunity to access this funding. That is why we are extending the deadline for applications by events in flood affected areas of Queensland,” said Ms Bligh.

Event organisers that have not been affected by flooding will still be required to submit their full application by Friday 13 February 2009.

“Queensland Events undertakes a thorough assessment of all applications received and it is vital that our team is able to commence assessments as soon as possible to ensure that funding can be organised.

“The Queensland Events Regional Development Program has provided more than $11.5 million to over 548 regional events since it started as a world-first initiative in 2001. These events bring in business, create jobs, attract tourists, fuel growth and prosperity and give a tremendous sense of pride for the local host communities,” said Ms Bligh.

Across Queensland, thousands of individuals, community groups, local councils and in some cases entire towns, put countless hours into ensuring their events are a success.

Media Contacts: Premier's Office: (07) 3224 4500
Queensland Events: Barry Duncan (07) 3222 1027 or 0419 739 842