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Council boosts local economy with latest round of grants

Cessnock City Council is pleased to announce the opening of its latest round of Visitor Economy Grants to help boost local business through mid-week tourism.

Organisations or individuals wanting to host events, run projects and hold conferences in the Hunter Valley region are invited to apply for the grants which provide up to $25,000 in financial support to increase mid-week visitation and increase visitor length of stay within the Cessnock Local Government Area.

The Visitor Economy Grants and Sponsorship Program aims to attract organisations to the Hunter Valley and builds on Council’s on-going commitment to promote local tourism and support initiatives that help to grow our visitor economy.

City of Cessnock Mayor Jay Suvaal expressed his enthusiasm about the Visitor Economy Grants program.

“Our region is brimming with opportunity, and these grants support us to unlock our potential,” said Clr Suvaal.

“Through targeted support for initiatives and events that enhance visitor numbers to the Cessnock LGA, prolong their stays, and foster job creation, we are actively bolstering the economic vitality of our community.”

Over the last three grant rounds, Council has distributed funding to 14 recipients to the value of $99,000.

The 14 events, conferences and projects supported through the grant program have delivered a direct economic benefit to the Cessnock LGA to the value of $3.7 million.

By investing in initiatives that increase visitation and extend visitor stays, Council is fostering a vibrant and resilient local economy.

Applications for this round of grants will take place between 1 – 29 February 2024.

For more information about the Visitor Economy Grants and Sponsorship Program, please visit:

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