City’s $420,000 funding boost ‘lifeline’ for Bunbury arts sector and events calendar

Bunbury is gearing up for another bumper events season after a raft of key festivals and cultural experiences gained “lifesaving” funding from the city. The City of Bunbury last week officially endorsed its 2021-22 annual budget, which includes more than $420,000 to highlight events, art and culture through its Grants Funding Program. Bunbury Fringe Festival joins Bunbury Show, Downtown Music Festival, Groovin’ the Moo and South West Multicultural Festival as returning events and funding recipients, which Fringe creative director Jo O’Dea said was a lifeline. Ms O’Dea said it was great to secure the $25,000 funding and to have the City as a key partner of the event. “We’re a not-for-profit, so without funding like this, Fringe wouldn’t be able to go ahead. “This means we can be accessible and affordable for everyone.” Ms O’Dea said the WA arts sector was in a lucky position compared to the Eastern States, which has been hard hit by lockdowns and event cancellations. “It’s so important for people to be showing their support to the arts industry,” she said. “Fringe going ahead means we can continue to give artists a platform to work and support them.” After a successful run this summer, the Bunbury Fringe team is planning its next moves. “We’re focused on developing 2022 at the moment and it’s looking to be bigger and better than ever,” Ms O’Dea said. Event-goers can expect to see a number of new exciting festival dates on the horizon, such as Masskara Festival and Enable Fest. Mayor Gary Brennan said he looked forward to celebrating another busy events season in Bunbury. “Art, cultural experiences and events hold a vitally important place in our community, especially given the social barriers and challenges the past 18 months have dealt us all,” Mr Brennan said.