Kiama Council is injecting more than $81,000 into the local economy through Round 1 of its 25-26 Destination Event Funding Program, supporting a vibrant lineup of events set to enhance the region's cultural, social, and economic landscape.
The initiative, which is held annually across two rounds, underscores Council's commitment to fostering tourism and enriching the visitor economy.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: "I'm pleased to announce the diverse range of events Council has provided funding to this year, which will enhance our area's cultural, social, sporting and economic landscape."
"From established, crowd-favourite events such as the Jamberoo Car Show, Changing Tides Music Festival and Kiama Sevens Rugby, to new offerings including the Burnetts Garden Sounds Festival and the YOHKA Redline Games, there's something for everyone in this year's lineup of Council-supported events."
Destination Kiama Chair Cr Matt Brown said: "We can't wait to welcome the community to our Destination Events program this year. We invite locals and tourists alike to come along and experience the magic that is Kiama municipality, whether you're attending a music or cultural festival, participating in or spectating at one of our fabulous sports events."
Council's Destination Event Funding was endorsed by Council in its 2025-26 budget and all ongoing event funding must demonstrate financial sustainability. Council is under a Performance Improvement Order and is on track to break even in its budget for 2027.
The 2025-15 Round 1 Destination Event Funding recipients, which were endorsed at Council August 2025 Ordinary Meeting, are:
- $8,000 - Sydney FC Kiama Football Festival: 14-15 Sep
- $6,000 - Kiama Triathlon in Minnamurra: 27 Sep
- $7,000 - Jamberoo Car Show & Family Day: 26 Oct
- $8,000 - Changing Tides Music Festival: 22 Nov
- $1,000 - Seaside Veterans Golf Tournament: 24-27 Nov
- $4,240 - Burnetts Garden Sounds Festival: 6 Dec (new event)
- $4,000 - "Clearly Presents" Prospa & Chromeo at The Pavilion: 2-3 Jan
- $8,000 - Kiama Sevens Rugby Tournament: 28 Feb
- $8,000 - Kiama Beach Tag at Kendalls Beach: 7 Mar
- $5,240 - Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival: 6-8 Mar
- $10,000 - YOHKA Redline Games: 28-29 Mar (new event)
- $5,240 - Crooked River Winter Wine Festival: 6-7 Jun
- $1,500 - Red Cross Fun Run: 7 Jun
- $5,000 - Kiama Coastal Classic: 21 Jun
Subject to conditions and future budget endorsement, multi-year funding is offered to support establishing and maintaining the delivery of the following events:
- Sydney FC Kiama Football Festival
- Jamberoo Car Show & Family Day
- Burnetts Garden Sounds Festival
- Kiama Sevens Rugby Tournament
- Kiama Beach Tag
- Crooked River Winter Wine Festival
Cr McDonald said: "Council's Destination funding program aims to strike a balance between economic growth and community enrichment, offering residents and tourists alike a calendar brimming with memorable experiences."
Cr Brown also put out a call for the next Destination Event Funding round: "Do you have a bold idea that could put Kiama on the map? Or an established event that attracts visitors from out of the area? We are inviting interested parties to start preparing their bids for round 2 of the 25–26 Destination Event Funding Program, which opens in December."
More details on the Destination Event Funding Program and its recipients
