Central Coast Council is inviting businesses, community groups and event organisers to propose an event, or activity to be a part of the annual 10-day Lakes Festival program celebrating the Coast’s diverse waterways.

The Lakes Festival, scheduled to run from 3-12 November 2023, is an annual reminder of the variety of lakes and waterways available on the Central Coast. The program brings together an array of local organisations and businesses to host a range of family-friendly activities or events each November.

Council Unit Manager Community and Culture, Glenn Cannard said The Lakes Festival is one of the region’s biggest events which debuts every spring and is made special by locals who host a variety of entertaining and innovative activities. 
“The calendar of events linked to The Lakes Festival Program last year attracted over 20,000 festival goers,” Mr Cannard said. 

“This year we are continuing to seek expressions of interests from new and returning businesses, companies, organisations, and community groups who have a unique activity or event concept.

“No idea is too big or too small. Ideas can be anything centred around the theme, or location of our waterways, from festivals, sporting events, art events, outdoor installations, water education, workshops, and community events.

“A few examples we have previously had in our program include, The Colour Run, Norah Head Lighthouse Festival, Clambake, Toukley Arts & Craft, Long Jetty Street Festival, Park Feast and more!”  

The successful applicants for 2023 will benefit by being included in Council’s festival program and marketing campaign. 

There is also the opportunity to apply for up to $5,000 of funding as part of the expression of interest application under the Event Innovation Funding program. The funding is aimed at assisting events that meet the criteria upon application.

Guidelines for EOIs include:

• Facilitate a vibrant and innovative events culture within the Central Coast.
• Encourage the development of tourism in the Central Coast and increase economic development opportunities.
• Encourage the involvement of local residents in events and Festivals that can facilitate positive interaction, cultural activity, and a strong community identity among the citizens of our diverse community.

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said The Lakes Festival is a fun occasion that plays a significant role in teaching locals and tourists about our waterways.

“I'm excited to see what this year's program has in store as The Lakes Festival is celebrated across the Coast and is made possible by the ideas and contributions of so many amazing local businesses, groups, and organisations,” Mr Hart said. 

“Our waterways are part of the Central Coast’s identity and it’s important to continue to celebrate and educate the local community and visitors alike.” 

Submissions will close at 2pm on Monday 13 March 2023. To find out more, view the full guidelines and to get involved visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/eoi

The Lakes Festival 2023 is proudly sponsored by Mounties Group. 

ENDS