Executive summary

Executivesummary

The Events Strategy and Action Plan 2020 –2024 (the strategy) provides a five-year framework and a strategic approach to the development, acquisition and investment in events in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area. This strategy will position Wagga Wagga as a leading regional events destination that offers a diverse, vibrant and inclusive calendar of events that generate positive economic, cultural, social and environmental outcomes for the city.

The strategy supports the vision for Wagga Wagga in its growth to a city of 100,000 by 2038 and is the first strategy of its kind for Wagga Wagga City Council. It aligns with significant local, regional and state-based strategies and plans such as the NSW Government State-wide Destination Management Plan 2019 and the Riverina Murray Destination Management Plan 2018.

The key goals outlined in this strategy are influenced by the four guiding principles identified in Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP); thriving, innovative, connected and inclusive. There are three over-arching goals within this document and they are centred around lifestyle and legacy, growing destination reputation and generating economic impact.

The strategy draws on best practice event management from other destinations as well as the aspirations of our local event stakeholders and community. It is designed to be flexible to meet changing market needs, funding opportunities and priorities. It will build on the current successes of the city’s calendar of events and will work towards further enhancing the city’s reputation as an event friendly destination.

Vision

Wagga Wagga attracts extraordinary event experiences that connect people and place, creating a positive legacy for the community.

Aspirations

1. 2. 3. 4. Events demonstrate our potential as a thriving regional city Events tell our story and showcase our community spirit Events boost our economy

Event strategies and outcomes

Events unite us

Create lifestyle and legacy benefits

Create social and community benefits through enhanced liveability, cultural and social inclusion Create positive legacies for the city through urban renewal and improved accessibility Facilitate the activation of event infrastructure and precincts across the city Advocate for sustainable event management 1.

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3.

Grow destination reputation

Build Wagga Wagga’s profile as a leading regional events destination for NSW Strengthen investment through events attraction Build the capacity of local event organisers and industry 1.

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Generate economic benefit

Increase the economic contribution from key visitor markets Ensure Council’s sponsorship funding programs are achieving the maximum return on investment Grow new visitor markets that align to key (new) product/destination initiatives Support the growth of key industry sectors Maintain a high standard of promotion of events to visitors and residents