General News
7 November, 2025
Savannah secures funds for next four years
SAVANNAH in the Round has secured State Government funding of $1 million over the next four years, ensuring the annual event continues at least until 2029.
Member for Cook David Kempton said on social media that the funding was part of the Government’s push to make Far North Queensland a premier tourist destination.
“Events like Savannah in the Round attract visitors to Far North Queensland who spend money on local accommodation and in shops, bars and restaurants – growing the economy to support Queensland jobs and businesses,” he said.
Organisers said more than 32,000 people attended the four-day festival at the Mareeba Rodeo grounds, which brought a star-studded line-up of national and international acts, headlined by Zac Brown.
Speaking to Business Without Notice at October’s Mareeba Shire Council meeting, Cr Nipper Brown said the event was especially dear to him.
“For me it is really special and I get a little bit choked up,” he said.
“We had a vision way, way back in ... 2019. And that vision came to fruition on Saturday night.
“To stand there in the middle of the Rodeo area, where I used to fall off horses, and watch Zac Brown, an international artist... And to see the benefits it brings to the Shire, and the region was fantastic.”
Deputy Mator Lenore Wyatt said the event this year was up another notch.
“I really feel like Savanna in the Round has really brung it this year. So many people coming to our show, the economic benefit,” she said.
She admitted that there had been “a little traffic pressure”, but “once you get out there and get into the rodeo grounds, it is ideal”.
