BY CHAMPION REDLANDS COAST CEO CINDY CORRIE
DIWALI has become a regionally significant event on Redlands Coast.
It brings people together, attract visitors, supports our local economy and helps shape how our city is seen by the rest of the SEQ – and the world.
As the Redlands Coast looks towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we have an opportunity to think bigger about the role cultural events can play in our region’s future.
Events like Diwali, the Festival of Lights, demonstrate exactly what is possible.
They celebrate culture, create connections between communities and give people a reason to visit somewhere they might not otherwise explore.
When we attract visitors to the Redlands Coast, we create opportunities that extend well beyond the event itself.
People eat at our restaurants, visit our attractions, stay in our accommodation, explore our coastline and discover what makes our region special.
A great experience today can translate into a return visit tomorrow.
But the value of cultural events goes beyond economic development.
It is also about connection, belonging and the kind of community we want to be.
In 2032, Brisbane and South East Queensland will welcome people from across the globe.
Athletes, families, officials and spectators will bring with them different languages, traditions, faiths and cultural identities.
For many, it will be an extraordinary opportunity to experience Australia.
The Redlands Coast has an opportunity to help people feel welcome in more ways than one.
We should be thinking now about how cultural events can form part of a broader visitor economy strategy.
Cultural events like Diwali are part of the Redlands story we will share with the world in just six years.
