The NSW Government has opened applications to help showcase local events and local Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis is urging event organisers in the Clarence and Richmond valleys to apply. “The 2019 Flagship Event Fund will offer successful applicants a one-off annual grant of $20,000 or a grant of $27,500 per year for three years,” Mr Gulaptis said. “The Jacaranda and Beef Week festivals have benefited from this initiative in the past and I would encourage their committees to apply again. “Funding will be offered in two rounds per year with applications now open for events that will be held between January and June 2019 for marketing activities aimed at driving overnight stays,” he said. The NSW Government has committed $43 million over four years to attract more visitors to experience rural and regional destinations and events. Applications under Round One close on Monday, 8 October 2018.  Round Two applications for events held between July and December 2019 will open in February next year. For further information visit www.destinationnsw.com.au.rfep