October signals footy finals, Octoberfest and Spring Carnival racing, all significant events in the pub scene, however the restrictions we now operate mean how we promote and operate these events is a little more complex. With that said, it is encouraging to see venues adapting to the reduced capacity and seated patron requirements and still manage to offer enticing and entertaining packages for patrons to enjoy these events.
Live Music Australia Grants Program
The Live Music Australia Program has been developed to bring more live music to Australian communities and will fund applications that support Australian live music that is professionally staged, with a focus on small to medium venues. The Australian Government will provide a total of $20 million over four years for the Live Music Australia program. There will be $2.5 million funding available in each round. Your venue could be eligible to access these grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. To check your eligibility and to apply for funding visit arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/live-music-australia.
Function bookings
With Christmas just around the corner, many pubs have increased bookings for Christmas functions. The uncertainty of the COVID-19 restrictions have created a challenge for accommodating these groups across venues. While we hope restrictions may ease before December, the reality is that nothing is certain in this pandemic and we can only take bookings on the information we currently have rather than speculating what may change. Ensure you are aware of your venue capacity under the 1 per 4sqm rule. There are options available to seek approval for use of your car park or to extend licensed areas to accommodate larger groups or multiple bookings. These options require an application through OLGR. For assistance on this matter feel free to contact us at the QHA.
Pubs, Pots and Profits – Bundaberg
CUB together with the QHA will again be hosting the Pubs, Pots & Profits forum for hoteliers and key staff from around the Bundaberg region. The forum will feature presentations from leading experts in the industry, focusing on business development initiatives for your hotel. The event will be held at the Grand Hotel, Bundaberg on Tuesday 20 October from 2pm to 5pm. Canapes and networking drinks will be included, thanks to PFD Food Services and CUB. To register attendance for this FREE event simply contact us at the QHA. CLICK HERE
