Central Coast Council is inviting local farmers, businesses and event organisers to help make Harvest Festival 2019 the best yet by participating in its highly successful annual event.

Over 16,000 people attended the event this year, a 60 percent increase on the year prior, boosting the local economy by $3.7 million. Expressions of Interest are now open for businesses and locals who want to be part of Harvest Festival’s success.

Council Section Manager Place Activation, Ashlee Abbott, said Harvest Festival has grown substantially in popularity since its launch two years ago.

“Harvest Festival Central Coast is an important annual event run by Council in partnership with local farmers and businesses, to promote our region as a supplier of quality produce and attract people to a lesser known part of the Coast.” Ms Abbott said.

“The event has grown in popularity with a large increase in visitors this year and we expect it to continue growing as word spreads about this great Festival.

“For the second year, event statistics show a high level of interest from out-of-region visitation to our local farming properties and this has positively impacted local businesses and the economy.

“We invite local farmers, businesses and event organisers to be part of Harvest Festival 2019. There will be an information night on Monday, 27 August 2018 for those that are interested and would like to find out more.”

Harvest Festival is an innovative event model built around community partnerships and ownership. It celebrates the fantastic local produce from around the region as well as our unique area, people and culture.

The 2018 event program took visitors through Dooralong, Jilliby, Yarramalong, Kulnura, Mangrove Mountain, Peats Ridge, Somersby and Calga. It encouraged visitation at multiple local farms and food hubs, family activities and event hubs with a 97% satisfaction rate from attendees.

Expressions of Interest are now open for:

• Farm open days
• Farm tours
• Markets
• Farm gate sales
• Dining experiences
• Music events
• Art installations
• Community events

A public Information Night will be held on Monday, 27 August 2018 from 6-8pm at Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club.

For more information visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/harvestfestival