And another Toodyay festival bites the dust..

Discussion on the matter at the December 18 council meeting lasted eight minutes.
The shire officer’s recommendation was moved by Cr McCormick who said he had a “good understanding of the commitments made by the shire previously and the expense involved” (in running the festival) and was “happy to support the officer’s recommendation”.

Cr Madasci who voted against the cancellation said she was “concerned about the lack of information provided (to cancel the event)”.

She added, “before we cancel what has been a very significant festival for bringing people into town, the benefits that go with that, which is worldwide advertising through the Perth Tourist Centre, I feel this is something that needs to be talked about more”.

Cr Prater spoke in support of the officer’s motion to cut the event and said that Toodyay has to hold events that benefit local businesses.
“It costs us a lot of money.”

He also said that one of the shire employees had booked out three months of staff time on the festival.

Regarding tourists, Cr Prater said, “They’re coming anyway and a lot of times when the Avon Descent comes, I don’t know if anyone’s noticed… …if the water’s running real quick, they’re through town in no time but when the water’s running slow, it holds them here a bit longer.

“I’ve been involved in events for a long time and a good event has got to learn to stand on its own two feet”.

The proposed smaller events listed in the officer’s December report include a jazz-themed weekend with live music, vintage cars and street entertainment.

Other include a Christmas in July and “Taking it to The Street” where locals and tourists dine, shop, and enjoy entertainment along a closed-off street.

This event is envisaged to offer community dining where locals are encouraged to bring their own tables and chairs, benefiting local businesses through on-street food purchases.