Darebin will be attracting more visitors, and boosting local jobs and the economy, with the Victorian Government investing $15,900 to help deliver the Family Jams Fest in Northcote and $12,000 to help deliver the Music from the Wetlands Festival in Alphington. 

Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous today welcomed confirmation that the Family Jams Fest will proceed in July and the Music from the Wetlands Festival will proceed in November, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government Small and Medium Events Program, which is aimed at attracting small and medium sized events across Greater Melbourne.  

The Family Jams Fest will welcome a crowd of 1,100 kids (aged 0-12) and parents to the Northcote Theatre to enjoy some of Melbourne's best bands, creating a multigenerational space to connect with Victoria's wealth of diverse, original musical performers.

The Music from the Wetlands Festival provides a communal activity that promotes a connection to the wetlands in Alphington and builds on the strong sense of community held by residents of Fairfield and Alphington.

122 event organisers will share in an investment of almost $3 million to support the delivery of events between 1 June and 31 December – with the funding making it easier for organisers to bring their events to life with help to cover event costs, including venue hire, performer fees, staffing and marketing.

The Small and Medium Events Program supports a diverse range of activities including cultural, sporting and creative events.

It will help create ongoing jobs across the industry, connecting organisers with local businesses and suppliers and attracting more visitors to experience the best Melbourne’s suburbs have to offer.

For a full list of events visit: https://djsir.vic.gov.au/small-and-medium-events-program.

Quotes attributable to Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous: 

“The Family Jams Fest and the Music from the Wetlands Festival will not only generate more jobs for Darebin, but will also deliver many benefits right across Greater Melbourne.”

“The funding is a huge win for Darebin – these events will attract more visitors to the area, which is fantastic news for local businesses.”