MEDIA RELEASE
After two years of COVID cancellations, the Deniliquin Ute Muster has received some good news with the announcement of $400,000 of Federal Government funding.
The grant has been provided through the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund, which was specifically designed to help the arts and entertainment sector to recover from the impact of COVID-19.
Deniliquin based Senator for New South Wales, Perin Davey, said the fund has helped 155 organisations throughout New South Wales over seven rounds, but she admitted this funding was the most rewarding for her.
“Everyone who knows me knows I am a huge advocate for rural and regional arts funding and to see the team at the Ute Muster successful in their bid is great news.
“I was pleased to back their application because I know what two years of cancellations has cost the organisation as well as our community,” she said.
“It has been surreal to be in Deniliquin on the October long weekend and not see all the campers and lights out at the Muster site.
“I know each year they have been ready to go but COVID restrictions have meant it just couldn’t happen – but there are still costs they have had to meet. That is why this funding is so important to help them put on a great Muster so they can recover costs and focus on moving forward.
Senator Davey said the latest round of RISE grants saw 22 organisations across New South Wales receive funding with a significant focus on regional organisations or tours.
“Across all seven rounds of RISE funding more than $10 million has gone to regional organisations which has a significant impact on the local economies.
“Regional arts and entertainment organisations like Deniliquin Play on the Plains Festival Ltd are largely volunteer based but they provide such an important economic boost and cultural outlet for their communities,” she said.
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