Grant District Council will be the naming rights sponsor for a prestigious award at the Generations in Jazz (GIJ) 2024 event and will commit $20,000 to the event over the next three years.
Chief executive Darryl Whicker said council received a formal invitation to becoming the naming rights sponsor for the Vocal Ensemble Award at this year’s event.
Council was also asked to consider sponsorship of $20,000, comprising cash and in-kind support.
At its February monthly meeting, council agreed to being the naming rights sponsor of the award and allocate $20,000 sponsorship, but to a maximum cash contribution of $15,000.
“The Grant District Council has been a longtime supporter of the GIJ community based educational event,” Mr Whicker said.
“GIJ is an annual jazz music festival and provides aspiring school student musicians with a valuable opportunity to experience the professional aspects of their craft where like-minded individuals can gather, learn and perform together.
“Support as the naming rights sponsor will play a vital role in ensuring the success of the Vocal Ensemble Awards and further elevate the brand profile of both Generations in Jazz and Grant District Council.”
Council’s sponsorship for this year’s marquee event was budgeted as $6000 cash and annual in-kind support estimated at a further $5000 to $10,000.
It was recommended that rather than an annual request of council, that council consider committing to a three-year agreement.
“GIJ have indicated that council’s sponsorship will support targeted growth of interstate participation,” Mr Whicker said.
Mr Whicker said in 2023 the festival’s commitment to community engagement resulted in more than $120,000 being reinvested back into community and not-for-profit organisations.
“This significant financial contribution has had a positive ripple effect, enhancing the well-being and vibrancy of the community,” he said.
“The festival’s volunteer program in 2023 involved an impressive cohort of over 180 volunteers.
“These volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the festival, contributing their time and skills to create the best possible experience for attendees.
“Accommodating the school participants, scholarship students and associated works is a crucial aspect of hosting GIJ and doing so stimulates the accommodation, tourism, and hospitality economy.
“Approximately 1725 participants from host schools will reside within Grant District Council, within caravan parks, bed and breakfast, private houses, community groups and halls and sporting groups, generally on a fee for service basis.
“Registrations for the 2024 event officially opened in October 2023, and GIJ has experienced a significant increase in participation, with a remarkable surge of 1000 additional participants compared to the 2023 event.
“This growth underscores the enduring appeal and impact of GIJ within the jazz community and beyond.
“GIJ are currently working with a total of 4300 school participants, showcasing the widespread engagement and enthusiasm among students and educators.”
In addition, Mr Whicker said it was anticipated that a further 2000 additional people will visit the region over the course of the GIJ weekend.
“This influx of participants not only highlights the event’s success but also underscores the positive economic impact on the local community, promoting tourism and enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the region,” he said.
