The Lakes Festival will return this year and is a celebration of the Central Coast’s waterways like no other. Council is inviting businesses, community groups and event organisers to participate in and deliver events and activities to be part of this year’s festival program.
The popular regional event is designed to bring locals and visitors together to celebrate, discover and re-discover the Coast’s lakes and waterways. The festival’s 10-day program will be created to offer a range of exciting, family-friendly and educational programs this November.
Council Unit Manager Community and Culture, Glenn Cannard said The Lakes Festival is one of the region’s most exciting events and is made special by the fun and creative ideas of locals who take part.
“The Lakes Festival event format had to unfortunately change slightly last year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, however this year we’re hoping to create a diverse festival calendar that is the best yet and are inviting locals to help us do just that,” Mr Cannard said.
“Previous festival programs have included the Colour Run, Norah Head Lighthouse Festival, Shelly Beach and Terrigal Markets, Bouddi Coastal Run, Clambake, Toukley Arts & Craft, Park Feast and more.
“We’re seeking expressions of interest (EOIs) from new and returning businesses, companies, organisations and community groups with a unique event or event concept that celebrates our waterways. Activities can include anything from festivals, sporting events, art events, outdoor installations, workshops and community events. Applicants should submit bold, innovative and ‘out of the box’ ideas, while staying true to the overarching theme of waterways.”
Successful applicants will benefit from inclusion in Council’s festival program and full marketing campaign. There is also the opportunity for Event Innovation Funding this year for those events that meet the criteria upon application.
Guidelines for EOIs include:
- Facilitate a vibrant and innovative events culture within the Central Coast
- Encourage the development of tourism in the Central Coast and increase economic development opportunities
- Encourage the involvement of local residents in events and festivals that can facilitate positive interaction, cultural activity and a strong community identity among the citizens of our diverse community
Council Administrator, Rik Hart said The Lakes Festival is an exciting event for the Central Coast region and is important in educating the community and visitors about our waterways.
“The Lakes Festival is celebrated right across the Coast and is made possible through the ideas and contributions of so many fantastic local businesses, groups and organisations, and I look forward to seeing what this year’s program has in store,” said Mr Hart.
“After what has been a challenging two years for our community and local businesses due to the ongoing pandemic, it will be great to see locals and visitors come together to enjoy event programs taking place around our lakes and waterways.”
Submissions will close at 2pm on Monday 7 March 2022. To find out more, view the full guidelines and get involved search ‘EOI’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or click here
The Lakes Festival 2022 is proudly presented by Central Coast Council and Mounties Group.