“Spring is a fantastic time to be in Hume, with communities throughout regional parts of the electorate hosting annual events, many of which celebrate their local history and heritage with the arrival of the warmer weather,” Mr Taylor said.

“Events like Boorowa’s Irish Woolfest and Goulburn’s Lilac City Festival – both held last weekend – are unique to their towns, bringing in tourism dollars and providing great entertainment for families.

“Crookwell’s Dame Mary Gilmore Weekend from October 27 to 29, and the Marulan Kite Festival from November 3 to 5, are just some of the other upcoming local celebrations definitely worth visiting.

Mr Taylor said about $1.2 million was available each year for projects that encourage community and audience participation from people living in regional and remote areas.

“The Festivals Australia program funds festivals, parades and community celebrations in regional and remote areas. I encourage organisations with the capacity to deliver events to apply for funding,” he said.

“This is a terrific opportunity to plan high quality arts experiences for people living in regional areas in Hume.”

Mr Taylor said the program was an example of the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting a vibrant arts and culture sector in regional areas.

“The Coalition is proud to fund programs such as this to ensure regional and remote audiences have access to high quality artistic experiences where they live,” he said.

Applications for this funding round close October 20, 2017.

To view the guidelines and application form visit: www.arts.gov.au/festivals.