The City of Mount Gambier will invest more than $237,000 in events, creative initiatives, sporting infrastructure and community development projects through round one of the 2026/2027 Grants and Sponsorship Program, reinforcing Council’s commitment to growing the local economy and creating a vibrant, liveable city that attracts people and investment.
Following Council’s endorsement of the funding round, $218,104.09 in cash funding and $18,912.50 in-kind support will be distributed across 26 projects and events that deliver social, cultural and economic outcomes for the city.
The investment forms part of Council’s broader commitment to creating a vibrant, connected and prosperous world-class regional capital, recognising that successful events, active community organisations, quality facilities and a thriving arts sector all contribute to making Mount Gambier an attractive place to live, work, study, visit and invest.
“This investment is about much more than funding individual projects. It is about shaping the kind of city people choose to call home,” City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said.
“Council recognises the direct connection between liveability, economic growth, population retention and investment attraction. By supporting events, arts and culture, community initiatives and sporting infrastructure, we’re investing in the experiences and opportunities that make Mount Gambier an even more attractive place to live, work, study, visit and do business.”
Successful projects
Round one of the 2026/2027 Grants and Sponsorship Program will support a diverse range of initiatives that contribute to community wellbeing, economic development, arts and culture, and sport and recreation infrastructure across Mount Gambier.
Corporate Sponsorship
Supporting major events that drive visitation, economic activity and regional profile:
- Mount Gambier New Year’s Eve Festival 2026, a large scale community celebration marking the end of the year.
- Fantasy Medieval Fair, a unique themed event attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.
Community Events
Supporting events that generate visitation and deliver social and economic benefits for the community:
- Party in the Park, a popular family friendly community event.
- Catch a Carp for Conservation, combining environmental action with community participation.
- Blue Lake Carols, an annual festive celebration bringing the community together.
- DogFest 2027, showcasing canine activities and community engagement.
- 2026 Eruption Disc Golf Tournament, attracting competitors and visitors to Mount Gambier.
- Legend of the Lakes Hillclimb, a significant motorsport event for the region.
- Mount Gambier Spring Show 2026, celebrating agriculture, horticulture and community connection.
- Blue Lake Fun Run, encouraging health, wellbeing and community participation.
- South East Primary Schools Music Festival, showcasing local student talent.
- Mount Gambier 8 Hour Pedal Prix, a longstanding endurance event for students and teams.
