The Tasmanian Greens Member for Bass Kim Booth MP has written to the Launceston City Council to raise strong concerns over its decision to cancel funding to the annual Breath of Life music festival.
Mr Booth said the event was a major economic boost for the City of Launceston, and urged the Council to immediately reconsider its decision regarding funding.
“The Breath of Life festival is not only a fantastic local event which brings big name acts to our City, as well as showcasing local talent, but it’s also a massive boost for the economy” Mr Booth said.
“With up to 16,000 attendees last year, it is believed this event injects approximately $2.3 million into the local economy annually, filling hotel rooms to capacity in the greater Launceston area. However it costs organisers around $1.4m to stage.”
“Bars and restaurants are full and retail outlets receive much needed patronage. Given the challenges small business, retail and hospitality are facing in the North, I am at a loss as to why Council would be so reluctant to support such a worthwhile event.”
“I will be continuing to advocate for the Festival to ensure its successful continuation into the future and have today written to the acting General Manager urging that Council reconsider the matter.”
“To lose such a worthwhile event to another part of the State due the rejection of a funding request for $20,000 would be a crying shame,” said Mr Booth.
Download: Letter from Kim Booth MP to Launceston City Council General Manager
Sep14_Leter_from_Kim_Booth_MP_to_LCC_ATTACH.pdf
Kim Booth MP Member for Bass
