THE unanimous bipartisan support for independent MP Troy Bell’s move to grant Generations in Jazz major event status is an “exciting day” for everyone involved with the festival, according to event chief executive Belinda Shannon.
In Wednesday’s sitting of parliament, the Member for Mount Gambier’s five-part motion, which called on the State Government to award the long-running festival the prestigious designation, was supported by all lower house MPs in attendance.
Ms Shannon said the board, management committee and volunteers were “absolutely thrilled” about the passing of the bill in the House of Assembly.
“Major event status presents amazing opportunities for us,” she said.
“It means we can secure some much needed financial support from government so we can now look to secure a more permanent events management team, work on promotional strategies and secure international artists to attend workshops, which in turn develop our wonderful home grown talent.”
She added additional government funding would also assist in improving the festival’s existing infrastructure and facilities, as well as provide feasibility studies on ways organisers can extend the event.
Ms Shannon was particularly excited by the prospect of additional media exposure at future events and the potential opportunities the spotlight will bring to the region.
“We would like to thank Mr Bell for putting the motion forward to parliament and for the unanimous support from all members in the House of Assembly,” she said.
“A special thank you to the Member for Florey Frances Bedford for supporting the motion.”
