Funding secured for the iconic Childers Festival is set to deliver a boost to the community and regional economy, with the event named among 40 in Queensland to receive support through the State Government’s Homegrown Destination Events Fund.
The Childers Festival has been awarded $25,000 under Round 2 of the revamped $14 million fund, which is designed to grow standout local events and strengthen Queensland’s reputation as the events capital of Australia.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the boost for the Childers Festival was a big win for the community and the wider region.
“The Childers Festival is a signature event for our region, it brings thousands of visitors into town, fills local cafes, pubs and accommodation and puts our community on the map,” Mr Bennett said.
“This $25,000 in funding will help showcase our unique history and culture to the rest of Queensland.
“It’s great to finally have a government that recognises the value of regional events and is serious about making Queensland the events capital of Australia.”
Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Helen Blackburn said the funding was welcome news for an event that had long been part the Childers community.
“For three decades the Childers Festival has brought people into the region, supported local businesses and shown off what makes our town such a great place to visit,” she said.
“It’s an event locals really care about and it delivers real benefits for the region.
“This support helps ensure the Childers Festival can keep growing while staying true to what it’s always been about – community, culture and bringing people together.”
The Homegrown Destination Events Fund also includes grants of up to $40,000 to support events that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, helping to grow cultural tourism across Queensland.
The latest funding round has awarded nearly $2 million across 40 events in 12 destinations, supporting events scheduled between June 2026 and June 2027.
More than 70 events have now received backing through the fund, with grants of up to $300,000 available over three years to help events attract visitors and drive the local economy.
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the funding reinforced the government’s commitment to supporting events that drive tourism and strengthen regional communities.
“Events draw visitors into our regions, fill hotels, boost local businesses and showcase everything that makes Queensland an unbeatable place to visit,” he said.
“Through this latest round of the Homegrown program, we are delivering real economic and social benefits for communities right across the state.”
