As Melbourne’s Firelight Festival prepares to illuminate the city, Lord Mayor Sally Capp has indicated the event will be more than just a spectacle of lights, but rather a beacon of hope for struggling businesses in the Docklands precinct.
The festival will run for three nights starting from June 28 and include a variety of music, installations and performances celebrating fire and light.
Speaking to SmartCompany, Mayor Capp acknowledged the resilience of Melbourne businesses, especially after the challenges posed by the pandemic.
“During Covid, we initiated the Business Concierge program to offer vital support to small business owners,” she told SmartCompany.
This program, born out of necessity, has since evolved into a comprehensive strategy aimed at nurturing the growth of local businesses.
Mayor Capp underscored the significance of major events like the Firelight Festival in driving foot traffic and strengthening revenue for businesses.
“Hosting events in the city attracts customers to local businesses,” she said.
To ensure small businesses reap the full benefits, the City of Melbourne will now provide tailored support ranging from marketing assistance to strategic guidance.
Docklands has recently emerged as a talking point in Melbourne’s efforts towards revitalising the local economy, particularly given Costco’s decision to relocate its Docklands warehouse to a new site in Melbourne’s west later this year.
Mayor Capp acknowledged the area’s challenges, which were exacerbated by the pandemic.
“Docklands is an area of particular interest to us for activation and investment, given it’s been one of the hardest hit,” Mayor Capp explained.
“It’s really a big employment zone,” she said.
With its potential as an employment and tourism hub, Docklands remains a priority for Melbourne’s economic recovery.
Before the pandemic, the precinct thrived as a bustling neighborhood, welcoming thousands of visitors on weekdays. However, the subsequent decline in foot traffic has necessitated targeted interventions.
Mayor Capp stressed the importance of state government investments in vital infrastructure projects like Central Pier to spur redevelopment and reinvigorate Docklands’ vibrancy.
Through initiatives such as the Firelight Festival and ongoing support programs, the City of Melbourne aims to revitalise the Docklands Precinct.
“We really just want them [businesses] to absolutely get every bang for their buck and the bucks that we’re investing,” Mayor Capp said.
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