A share of $880,000 is being offered for innovative projects that promote and activate the heart of Newcastle.
Funding for the latest round of the Special Business Rates (SBR) initiative opens on Monday 11 August, with its focus on the beautification and economic development of Darby Street and the City Centre.
One of the 2024 beneficiaries was WinterHeat, which warmed the hearts of more than 12,000 people who enjoyed the free outdoor event in Pacific Park, complete with pyrotechnics, fire canons, the silent disco and a fun-filled Kids’ Zone.
The festival will celebrate its 21st anniversary on 16 August with continued support from City of Newcastle (CN), complete with more fire-themed activities, as well as a dining area with all local vendors, music and the “Eat the Heat” chilli-eating contest.
Organiser Zackari Watt said WinterHeat wouldn’t exist without SBR funding and the support of the Newcastle Business Improvement Association.
“Our festival truly showcases the best Newcastle has to offer, including local food, music and performances,” he explained.
“And, best of all, it’s totally free for the whole family.
“We’re looking to make WinterHeat an annual event that not only appeals to Novocastrians but also attracts visitors from far and wide, who stay overnight and make a bigger impact on the local economy.”
Council’s executive director creative and community services Alissa Jones said SBR funding was all about bringing business precincts to life.
“It plays an important role in beautifying and activating the city centre at a time when it’s experiencing a major period of transformation,” she stated.
“The funding facilitates economic development by supporting local businesses and provides increased opportunities for arts, culture and community events.
“We work closely with the Business Improvement Association to ensure the SBR helps to boost visitation and enhance safety within the city, while creating a sense of community among businesses.”
Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge admitted the SBR presented locals with the opportunity to come together and develop ideas and events that promoted their respective precincts.
“We supported the return of WinterHeat in 2024 and it was a resounding success,” he said.
“So, we’re looking forward to seeing what organisers have added for this year’s instalment.
“We’re also proud to support Bernie’s Bar, which is hosting a 100 Years of the Star Hotel three-day festival starting on 29 August.
“This will feature the unveiling of a permanent historical marker on King Street, history talks, archive footage, music, drag performances and a rainbow lighting installation on Devonshire Street.”
Earlier this year, CN received applications for a pool of $93,000 in SBR funding for projects in Wallsend and Hamilton.
The successful recipients included the Full Circle Collective’s Wallsend Op Shop Trail and the Curious Legends’ Halloween-themed event, Wallsend Frights: A Hallow Evening.
The Newcastle Fringe Festival will also take place in Hamilton in 2026, thanks to SBR funding, with the three-week extravaganza launching with a community street party on Saturday 14 March.
Hunter Multicultural Communities garnered assistance, too, for their project, a 12-month community-led initiative to replant, clean and care for the iconic mosaic planter boxes along Beaumont Street.
Applications for the latest SBR round close on 31 August.
Anyone interested in applying can attend an online information session on Wednesday 13 August as well.
For further information, visit the City of Newcastle website.
For more business stories:
- Business Hunter leads call to reinstate funding for vital start-up initiative
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- Broadmeadow precinct set to enter exciting new chapter
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