ANDREW Barr has triumphantly announced that Floriade 2014 was officially the biggest and most successful event in its history, attracting the largest-ever crowd and making a significant contribution to the ACT economy.
“A total of 481,854 visitors attended the capital’s 30-day spring festival, making it the biggest crowd since the introduction of turnstiles in 1999 and representing an increase of 7 per cent on last year’s attendance figure of 448,987,” Andrew said.
“As a result, Floriade 2014’s increase in Gross Territory Product was $68.9 million, which is the highest on record and an increase of 17.7 per cent on last years’ $58.5 million.
“These statistics demonstrate why the ACT government has continuously strived to deliver and fund a quality calendar of major events in the ACT. It is clear that events such as Floriade make a substantial contribution to the economy by attracting interstate travelers. These events also build a sense of community pride and help formulate Canberra’s identity.
“Floriade also attracted 103,290 interstate and international visitors who came to Canberra specifically for the event, resulting in an increase in direct expenditure of $47 million – an increase of 19 per cent on last years’ result of $39.5 million.
“Despite a slight reduction in interstate visitors (from 105,356 in 2013 to 103,290 in 2014) there was an increase in the length of stay (from 2.4 nights to 2.9 nights), which resulted in an increase in overnight visitor expenditure by 21% to $45.6 million.
“Over five nights, Floriade NightFest’s spectacular lighting installations, immersive experiences, comedy, entertainment and night markets attracted 34,409 people – the second highest attendance since its inception.
“These are great results for Canberra; further proving that after 27 years Floriade continues to be Australia’s premier spring festival.”
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