Iconic events receive significant financial support from council
09 January 2024
Two of Ipswich’s iconic and most popular events will receive a combined $50,000 in financial support from Ipswich City Council in 2024.
The 151st Ipswich Show held from 17-19 May will receive $30,000 and the Ipswich Cup, run by the Ipswich Turf Club on 22 June, will receive $20,000.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said council wanted to recognise and celebrate both events, which attract thousands of people every year.
“After celebrating the Ipswich Show’s sesquicentennial in 2023, we are delighted to be supporting this iconic event once again,” Cr Fechner said.
“It is one of the most significant calendar events for the region and provides both social and economic value to the community.
“Council is very proud to support the Ipswich Show with council providing $30,000 in sponsorship for 2024.
“The show is a very important and much-loved community event that the whole region looks forward to each year.
“An event impact study of the 2021 Ipswich Show highlighted an economic return of $888,656 with 27,020 individuals attending.
“The 150th Ipswich Show of 2023 trialled an extended footprint with two additional areas – the Historical Precinct and the Boulevard – with the event attracting 36,000 attendees, guests, volunteers and participants combined.
“From the Exhibition Hall’s arts and crafts, produce, preserves and horticulture, to the Animal Boulevard featuring everything from water buffalo to Clydesdales and giant rabbits, to the ever-popular Side Show Alley, all the beloved staples of a classic agricultural show will be back at the Showgrounds in 2024.”
Cr Fechner said the Ipswich Cup is the showpiece of the Queensland Winter Racing Carnival calendar and part of council’s Festival of Horsepower.
“Established in 1866, the race is rich in history, heritage and horses and Queensland’s biggest regional race day,” Cr Fechner said.
“It is more than a horse race; it is the social day of the year for the Ipswich region and beyond.”
The event attracts about 14,000 racegoers to the Ipswich Turf Club to enjoy in the day’s entertainment, with about 40 per cent of people coming from outside the region.
It delivers an economic benefit of $1.35 million to the city.
“Whether it is the horses you follow, the fashions on the field, the DJ festival or just catching up with friends, the Ipswich Cup is not to be missed, and we are delighted to provide the $20,000 in financial support for another bumper race day,” Cr Fechner said.
“Visitors not only to go to the Show in May and the Cup a month later, but they also experience other attractions and experiences our region has to offer and spend with our many local tourism and hospitality businesses.”