STRONG community support through donations and sponsorship is a key driver of success for the Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival, according to president Cate Bell.
The festival started in its embryonic stages almost 28 years ago and today has grown to become one of regional Australia’s leading arts events, to be held over four days from May 16 to 19.
“Every year we are blown away by the incredible support of our local community – in Penola, Coonawarra and throughout the Limestone Coast – of businesses, schools, clubs and other local groups who are keen to be part of this amazing festival,” Ms Bell said.
“And the support of the Coonawarra wineries – both with monetary donations and in wine, venues, event creation and volunteer hours – is unwavering.”
A recent flyer encouraging people to become a Friend of the Festival was received with overwhelming support in the region, seeing a significant jump in donations as a result.
“We delivered over 1000 flyers throughout major towns in the Limestone Coast and together with regular email newsletters, the reponse to the Friends of the Festival drive has been amazing,” she said.
Friends of the Festival receive an invitation to the launch party and the official opening, recognition on the festival website, regular email updates on events throughout the year and a listing in the festival program with sponsorship fully tax deductible.
“The most valuable part of being a Friend of the Festival is ensuring the arts thrive in our vibrant community,” Ms Bell said.
Sponsorships are also available for businesses and come in levels of monetary value ranging from gold to silver and bronze, through to equivalent ‘in kind’ donations.
“The festival simply could not operate without the generosity of the community we live in and we’d like to sincerely thank them,” Ms Bell said.
“Of course, our hard-working committee also collectively donates thousands of volunteer hours and professional skills to the festival through their involvement, which is priceless – they are the ‘doers’ of the community.”
Donations are still being accepted.
Visit www.artsfestival.com.au for more information.
