Another Tasmanian festival is tonight being hosted for the final time. The Huon Valley mid-winter festival has been a part of the region’s winter agenda for 11 years, but now, says it is time to say goodbye.
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00:00A cheery farewell for one final festival.
00:06After 11 years, the Huon Valley Midwinter Fest is hanging up its hat.
00:11We're happy because we don't have the pressure of putting this event on next year.
00:15We're sad because there's a great deal of pride in putting it on and seeing people come
00:20and engage in the festival and get dressed up.
00:23Just one in a string of casualties, organisers say high costs were a key part of the decision.
00:30The cost involved with putting these events on has definitely gone up.
00:34The compliance is quite high and the risk is quite high.
00:37We've just taken the opportunity to de-risk.
00:42They're not alone.
00:43Data from the Bureau of Statistics shows Tasmanians have recently cut down spending on recreation
00:48and culture.
00:50And they're spending less on hotels, cafes and restaurants.
00:55Stool holders say while there's no event quite like the festival...
00:59It's a very, very special event that really takes you to a completely different era.
01:04They're also feeling the pinch.
01:07It's a reality that we can't hide, but at the same time there's not a lot we can do
01:13about it.
01:14It's a quieter year this year.
01:16It's still lovely, you know, whatever happens it's nice.
01:19Tonight, Big Willy, just behind me, will be set on fire for the very last time.
01:24Tasmanian organisers say they need at least 12 months before they consider any kind of
01:27comeback, but they're hopeful someone else will fill their shoes.
01:31So I would encourage someone to jump in and do something.
01:35That would be great.
01:36And we will be first lining up at the door.
01:39Our ceremony is all about a little bit of magic and using your will to make things happen
01:44that otherwise might not happen.
01:45Those apple trees are going to need what's sailing next year.
01:48Hopes for future events not being extinguished.