A new events strategy will be presented to city councillors for adoption next month. 

Warrnambool’s visitor economy manager David McMahon said the council recognised events played an important role in enriching the cultural fabric of the community. 

“They bring people together, foster creativity and provide opportunities for new experiences and understanding,” he said. “In doing so, events encourage connected-ness and greater participation. Events also play an important part in generating community pride and sense of place. All are important indicators of community well-being and quality of life.” 

He said the types of events needed to be a mix.

“It’s not just food and wine or sporting or children’s events,” Mr McMahon said.

“It’s about finding a mix that works with the community. It’s the same with volunteers. If we can have a better, joined up events portfolio we can engage volunteers.

“We fully intend to hang on to as many Fun4Kids volunteers as we can. But it’s also about engaging with a lot of people who weren’t volunteers at events. Volunteering is a great way to be a part of it and a lot of the time without having to pay to be apart of it.” 

Mr McMahon said events also needed to provide economic benefits. 

“They are an essential driver of visitation and a catalyst for infrastructure investment and raise the profile and reputation of our destination,” he said. “The council’s aspiration is for Warrnambool to be a must-visit destination for domestic and international visitors. For this to occur, Warrnambool must be a place alive with festivity and offer our community and visitors a combination of signature tourism events, a range of community events that celebrate our unique attributes and various celebrations.”

Readers of The Standard took to Facebook offering their event suggestions.

Christine Brunt said she would like to see a kids splash zone. “We pay big bucks to go to Geelong Adventure Park or even just the Waurn Ponds pool because it has waterslides,” she said.

Brenton Banner suggested a Warrnambool Food and Wine Festival. Travis Owen supported his proposal, saying it was a great idea.

“Backing from the council and some volunteers to help organise and imagine the clientele we could bring to the town,” he said.

Anita Bradshaw suggested a Red Hot summer tour or a beer festival.