The Tweed Events Strategy

It is our collective aspiration that events held in the Tweed:

1. Build a vibrant community that is a great place to live and visit.
2. Contribute to achieving the Tweed’s visitor economy goals of increasing visitor spend and average length of stay.
3. Position the Tweed as one of Australia’s leading sustainable destinations, creating a clear identity for the Tweed in the minds of residents and guests.
4. Showcase the Tweed’s hero experiences.
5. Achieve a balance between events, public amenity and protecting natural assets.

Our collective guiding principles for event organisers are:

Brand and value alignment	Events should align with the Tweed destination brand and core values of nature, environment, and natural beauty. Events should strive to position the Tweed as one of Australia’s leading sustainable tourism destinations, recognised for its commitment to eco-friendly practices and unforgettable sustainable experiences. Events should activate the regions hero experience.
Sustainable practices	Events should aim to obtain sustainable accreditation where possible. Events should adopt a ‘Leave no trace’ event philosophy and aim for zero waste and emissions. Event should prioritise sustainability in all aspects of event planning and delivery, including waste management, energy and water conservation, and resource usage. Events should aim to minimise the environmental footprint of the event by employing eco-friendly practices and technologies. Events should raise awareness about the importance of responsible choices with their participants, vendors, sponsors, and the community. Events should provide educational opportunities and resources to empower stakeholders to adopt sustainable and ethical practices.
Social cohesion	Events should engage with community and stakeholders throughout event planning, seeking input, feedback, and collaboration to align with community needs and values. Events should foster partnerships and relationships that benefit both the event and the broader community. Events should provide points of contact and genuine care in addressing and resolving resident and community concerns.
Contribution to the local economy	Events should aim to support the local economy and spend local with Tweed based or Northern Rivers businesses where practicable over vendors from interstate. Events should prioritise local vendors and suppliers, First Nation suppliers, artisans, and businesses whenever possible, thereby contributing to the economic vitality of the community.
Inclusive and accessible	Events should aim to create an inclusive and diverse environment where all participants feel welcome, valued, and safe regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs. Events should aim to provide facilities and support to accommodate diverse accessibility requirements. Events should promote diversity among attendees, speakers, and organisers to foster a rich and inclusive event experience.
Safety and compliance	Events must ensure the safety of all participants. Events must meet requirements that prioritise the public health of our people and the natural health of our places. Events must collaborate with emergency services and implement measures to prevent accidents and respond to emergencies. Ensure must ensure full compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards in all aspects of event planning and delivery. This includes obtaining necessary permits and licenses, adhering to health and safety regulations, and following ethical guidelines.
Ethical practices	Events should conduct all aspects of event management with integrity, honesty, and transparency. Events should uphold ethical standards in dealings with participants, vendors, sponsors, and other stakeholders. Events should avoid practices that compromise ethical principles or harm the reputation of the event or Council. Events must meet all animal welfare standards and must avoid exploitation or mistreatment of animals for entertainment. Events must adhere to legal guidelines for animal handling, transportation, and accommodation. Events should work with reputable suppliers to ensure the wellbeing of animals. Events must avoid political endorsements, statements, and influence to avoid any perception of bias. Events should be responsible citizens in relation to alcohol and gambling, with a focus on safe, legal, and ethical practices that minimise harm to individuals and communities.

1. Attract, support, and deliver events that are safe, sustainable, and uniquely Tweed.
2. Enable best practice events by improving capacity, skills and infrastructure.
3. Build the Tweed brand and maximise event promotion.