There's no doubt special events and festivals are tourism draw cards.
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While we're yet to have any definitive details on how much these events collectively contribute to our economy you need only talk to people in the hospitality or retail sector to realise we're talking about big bucks.
It's great that Orange City Council secured $20,000 in funding to help kick off an LGBTIQ festival that's expected to be called Way Out West.
While it's unfortunate the festival was the only successful application in $16.8 million-worth of requests, it's still a win for Orange although how much of a win we'll have to wait and see.
Council's commercial services director Mark Burdack said the festival would support accommodation, dining and other businesses in Orange. In fact, according to Mr Burdack, a similar festival in Victoria attracted 25,000 visitors.
We need to ensure we are a city that welcomes everyone from all demographics.
While council will obviously support the festival driving the event will very much fall to a community-based committee.
Festivals like the one proposed have already proved successful in Lismore, Townsville and Wagga Wagga and while much might be said about the economic and tourism benefits, and there will be plenty, there are other markers of success.
Orange prides itself on being cosmopolitan and forward thinking.
We live in a city that's viewed as highly desirable for tree changers and those wanting to escape the stresses and hassles which come with city living.
We need to ensure we are a city that welcomes everyone from all demographics.
It's surprising to learn that councillor Scott Munro was concerned money was being directed at just one group as he put forward the need for a more family-orientated approach.
It was a sentiment that seemed to surprise many including councillor Joanne McRae and general manager Garry Styles.
While councillor McRae was keen to see the city embrace the chance to woo the "pink dollar" she also had some important things to say about inclusion as she urged people to see this festival as an opportunity not a threat.
For our city to economically prosper we need to capitalise on the opportunities available to us however for our community to truly prosper we need to be inclusive, above all else.
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