A post event survey of Murray River Council’s Moama Lights Event shows the three-week festival contributed more than $11 million to the Echuca-Moama region.
Returning for its second year, the light and sound show ran from 31 July to 21 August and saw over 25,000 visitors pass through the newly upgraded footbridges at Moama’s Horseshoe Lagoon.
The results of the post-event survey presented to Council this week showed over 70% of the 2000 survey respondents said the show exceeded their expectations.
Over half of the visitors lived more than 50km from Echuca-Moama, with 73 per cent indicating the main reason for their visit to town was to see Moama Lights
“Moama lights has produced an enormous amount of economic value with over $11 million back into our local community,” Mayor, Cr Chris Bilkey said
“This was spread between overnight stays, dining, shopping and other local experiences.”
“It’s fantastic that people came from far and wide to experience Echuca Moama and we are excited to continue with this event as a permanent fixture on the local calendar.”
The overall cost of delivering the 2022 event was $630,000, with costs offset by sponsorship, ticket sales and grant funding.
Sydney-based company, Mandylights helped deliver Moama Lights and have been appointed as the official creative and production contractor through to 2026.
Cr Bilkey also acknowledged the contribution of partners and sponsors.
“We were so pleased to have our platinum partner, Transgrid on board this year, along with our other local industry supporters.”
“In partnering with Moama Lights, these businesses are supporting a new and exciting draw card for our local region and are contributing to the ongoing growth of the local tourism sector.”
“Together, we have staged an iconic event that has generated significant economic benefits and increased destination awareness; thank you!”
With an overwhelming positive response to the 2022 event, Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Team have commenced working on the 2023 event.
Dates for 2023 will run from 30 June through to 23 July.
