Funding Grant Available for Hunter Events

BY LAURA D'AMICO

With 2019 just around the corner, event organisers in the Hunter are being encouraged to apply for the NSW Governments Flagship Event Fund.

The fund, used earlier this year by The Newcastle Writers Festival, supports the local communities tourism industry.

Organisers can apply for annual or triennial grants to assist in marketing their events outside the local area.

The state government is making it easier for organisers to access the initiative this year, with the fund being offered in 2 rounds, with only one application process.

Applications for round one close Monday 8 October, with round two opening in February next year.

Those eligible wishing to lodge an application are can visit Destination NSW to access the grant.

Helping Hunter Families at Christmas Time

BY: ALEX MURRAY


Starting today, the Cessnock City Council's Christmas Gift and Food appeal are asking for donations during the festive season to help the less unfortunate families in the community.

The donations will go towards the Kurri Kurri Community Centre as well as the Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood centre which already has substantial contributions annually from the Hunter region.

As part of the Christmas appeal, the council is asking for any generous donation of toys and non-perishable food items which can be dropped off under the Christmas tree at the Cessnock City Council administration.

The Cessnock City Mayor, Bob Pynsent says, "The donations mean a lot to local families that are doing it tough this festive season."

"Throughout the year, not just Christmas, we are assisting around 40 families in the area which equates to more than 80 children"

"I think we have a very caring community and this is how they share their support to the wider area."

Donation Drop of Points include:

Cessnock Administration Building: 62-78 Vincent Street Cessnock

Kurri Kurri Library: 245 Lang Street Kurri Kurri NSW

Cessnock Library: 63/65 Vincent St, Cessnock NSW