Ingham's Australian Italian Festival are attempting to move the Festival to the Showgrounds. We believe this to be the death knell of the festival.
At a time when the country is on the brink of Recession it seems absurd to remove employment from the township of Ingham to move an already successful event.
Following are our main points:
The lack of support in generating support for local small business during difficult economic times.
A number of local jobs will be lost from small business
One of the prime attractions and major draw-cards of the Festival is it's Main Street appeal. It's a marketing tool made successful by town & city Festivals the world over.
The Festival is supposed to be about Ingham, Australia & it's proud Italian culture - celebrating the town and all it represents.
Main business stakeholders will be from outside Ingham - Ingham businesses will not find the Festival a sustainable option
Ticket pricing structure will heavily impact struggling families
Containment of patrons will spark Liquor Licensing nightmare
Survey conducted did not include local business operators or the public
Other options need further consideration