Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast’s new Event Sponsorship Program
The Sunrise Chorus is a sensory feast, featured at past Rangebow Festivals.
Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast has announced the introduction of a new Event Sponsorship Program, designed to support festivals, events and experiences that contribute to the growth of the Hinterland visitor economy.
The new program establishes a clear and transparent framework for event organisers to apply for sponsorship support, with funding decisions focused on measurable tourism outcomes such as visitation, overnight stays and regional economic impact.
President of Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast, Wayne Parcell PSM, said the new initiative reflects a strategic reinvestment of funds accumulated through member contributions.
“This program is about putting our members’ contributions back to work in a way that benefits the Hinterland as a whole,” Mr Parcell said. “Events play an important role in attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and showcasing what the Hinterland has to offer. This framework ensures we support the right events, in the right way, with clear expectations and accountability.”
Sunshine Coast Division 5 Councilor Winston Johnston OAM, a consistent and longtime supporter of events, including The Montville Timber Trail (2-3 May 2026), The Rangebow Festival (9-18 October 2026), the Maleny Wood Expo (16 October 2026) and Sculpture on The Edge (27 November – 6 December 2026), welcomed the announcement: “As a long-time advocate for the Hinterland and events supporter I am delighted to see additional funding being offered to market the magic of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Come on up, you will be planning your return before you have even left.”
Under the new program, applications will be assessed against published criteria, and funded events will be required to report on outcomes after delivery. This ensures consistency, transparency and value for money in the use of funds.
The Event Sponsorship Program is aligned with Hinterland Tourism’s broader objectives of supporting sustainable visitation, dispersing visitors across the region and strengthening opportunities for local businesses.
“For event organisers, this provides clarity about what information is required and how decisions are made,” Mr Parcell said. “For our members, it provides confidence that sponsorship funding is being invested strategically and responsibly.”
The program will be open to eligible events held across the Hinterland region, with further details available through Hinterland Tourism.
As part of the broader focus on collaboration and industry engagement, Hinterland Tourism and Visit Sunshine Coast will also co-host a joint networking evening for industry stakeholders on Tuesday 17 February 2026 at Flaxton Gardens. The event will bring together tourism operators from across the region and will feature a special guest appearance by the Hon. Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Minister for Science and Innovation and Member for Glass House. The evening will provide an opportunity for industry to connect, share insights and engage directly with leaders shaping the future of tourism on the Sunshine Coast.
If you would like to become a member of Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast, please send an email to membership@hinterlandtourism.com.au
Further details and registrations for the joint Visit Sunshine Coast / Hinterland Tourism networking event are available online: https://visitsunshinecoast.wavecrm.com.au/event/01KFA4C0GF4A8QC5Z0G72V2WDW