Step 1: Event planning

Tweed food festival 2018

Planning is the most important part of running a successful event.

We welcome community events that contribute to the vibrancy of the Tweed.

Before you begin...

  • What is the purpose of your event?
  • Who is your target audience?
  • Event timing.
  • Expected participant numbers.
  • Resources required.
  • Your budget.
  • Most importantly – is it the ‘right fit’ for The Tweed?

Council wants to make sure you have the support you need to deliver a succesful event. Check out our event planning resources to help you get started.

Your responsibilities as an event organiser

Whether you're planning a community event, a conference, or a regional sports event, you want to ensure it leaves a positive legacy. These guiding principles provide an essential framework for event organisers:

  1. Brand and value alignment
  2. Sustainable practices
  3. Social cohesion
  4. Contribution to the local economy
  5. Inclusive and accessible
  6. Safety and compliance
  7. Ethical practices

Lodge your application in plenty of time

Organisers are encouraged to submit community event applications at least 12 weeks prior to the proposed event date.

Major events, or events with significant impacts (such as large crowds, road closures or complex infrastructure), should be lodged a minimum of 6 months in advance to allow for adequate planning and coordination with relevant agencies.

Event applications lodged less than 4 weeks before the event may not be considered.

In some cases, larger events or events on private property may require a development application (DA), which can take up to 12 weeks or longer to be processed.

Application Timeframe
Community event At least 12 weeks prior to the proposed event
Major event Minimum 6 months prior to the proposed event
Road closures At least 4 months prior to your event
Notification of food premises registration No less than 6 weeks prior to your event
Amusement devices No less than 6 weeks prior to your event
Temporary banners for public display No less than 6 weeks prior to your event

Choosing a site or venue

Finding the right site or venue will have the biggest impact on your event.

What to consider:

  • Location: What are the traffic impacts, transport and parking options?
  • Capacity: What is the room and/or open space capacity for comfort and safety?
  • Services and amenities: Does it have a kitchen, tables, chairs, AV capabilities, toilets, power?
  • Accessibility: Can all patrons access the building, room, open space and its amenities?
  • Cost and flexibility: Being flexible on an event date, especially when hiring a private venue, may be a great way to negotiate costs.

Council venues for hire

Our community and neighbourhood centres, auditoriums, meeting rooms and public halls are available for hire. Check availability and book online at tweed.bookable.net.au or call us on 02 6670 2400.

Council venues for hire

Council parks and beaches

Read about our parks and gardens, beaches and licences for commercial activities in our parks and beaches.

You can call to check if a park is available before you complete an event application form.

When you identify a Council site or venue in your community event application form, we place a tentative hold over it until the assessment is finalised.

Use of Council parks is subject to terms and conditions. Fees and charges and/or bonds may apply.

Popular locations for events

Check out some of the popular event locations in the Tweed. Some locations may have conditions or restrictions that apply.

Ready to apply?

Application to hold a community event

Next: Step 2: Event production >