But for Macarthur's Music in the Vines Festival it's become a little simpler thanks to $10,000 from Moyne Shire Council's festival and events grants, received regardless of ongoing coronavirus restrictions.

"It's very difficult to be planning an event," festival secretary Michelle Badenhorst said. "We are very fortunate to have received the grant."

The festival committee plans to make a call this week on whether the event, which hosted 9000 people last year, could go ahead in early March 2021.

"We are hopeful of course to be planning our event," Ms Badenhorst said. "Who is holding the crystal ball, that's the question."

The council awarded a collective $142,583 to 28 events planning for the next 16 months.

But the council has included conditions allowing money not spent during this financial year due to postponement or cancellation to be carried forward if the event is rescheduled.

If the event is not rescheduled "all funds not expended" must be returned, the council says.

Council community and corporate services director Kevin Leddin said it was "even more important" that festivals and events received the funds this year given the uncertainty.

The Port Fairy Show received $8000 from the grants despite the committee cancelling the event for the first time in its 166-year history this year.

Show president Chris Snell the grant would be "very handy" given this year's cancelled show still had costs for power bills and insurance.

"Because we are going to struggle with sponsorship from local businesses, that grant will help go towards running the show next year," Mr Snell said.

Mr Snell said even two world wars hadn't stopped the show going ahead in the past.

"I will miss seeing when all the hard work comes together and it all works nicely," he said.

The council also awarded $197,826 among 22 successful community assistance grant applications with a total project value of $548,659.

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