The Andrews Labor Government is helping the Grampians Grape Escape attract more visitors than ever before.
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Member for Western Victoria, Jaala Pulford, has announced a $35,000 grant to help the time-honoured event with marketing and advertising.
The grant has been provided to enable the region to welcome visitors from all over Australia to Halls Gap.
Held at the base of Mount William at Halls Gap, the Grampians Grape Escape features more than 100 exhibitors.
Ms Pulford said these exhibitors conduct cooking demonstrations, offer tasting samples and masterclasses for would-be chefs.
“The Grampians wine region produces some of Australia’s most celebrated shiraz and fine food, as well as some of Victoria’s oldest olive groves,” Ms Pulford said.
“Victoria is the events capital of Australia, and the Labor Government wants it to stay that way.
“The Labor Government’s 2015-16 Victorian Budget includes an $80 million boost to Victoria’s events war chest, so that Victoria can continue to secure the events that deliver maximum benefits to the state,” she said.
Ms Pulford said the Andrews Government will also invest $3 million to embark on an ambitious regional tourism marketing campaign, highlighting regional Victoria’s treasures and showcasing the regions.
“The Grampians region is home to some of Victoria’s finest food and wine, and the Grampians Grape Escape is a celebration of our local strengths,” Ms Pulford said.
“It’s not just a great event, it’s a big boost to the local economy too. Events like these keep small businesses strong, and provide jobs for locals,” she said.
Tourism Minister, John Eren, said the Government was working hard to grow a calendar of events to strengthen regional Victoria.
“This grant will help the Grampians Grape Escape market its great event to help attract more visitors to the region,” Mr Eren said.
The Grampians Grape Escape will be held between April 1 and May 1.
Tickets start at just $5.00 for a child’s day pass up to $199 for an indulgent VIP Weekend Package offering festival entry, free wine tasting on both days and entry to the Royal Mail Hotel VIP Lounge situated in the heart of the Festival Village.