Preparations for 2019 Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival underway

Whilst the crushing season has not even ended yet, preparations for the 2019 Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival are already underway.

Home Hill stalwart Doug ‘Chippo’ Chappell and a large group of dedicated volunteers planted nearly one hectare of purpose-grown sugarcane last month- more than seven months out from the event.

“We’ve had a lot of people that were very interested in helping, which is a good thing. It was a real community effort,” Mr Chappell said.

Last year, more than 5,000 locals and visitors flocked to the Home Hill Showgrounds across two days to take part in the rebranded festival.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin advised those not wanting to miss the 2019 festival to mark their calendars.

“Festival-goers can hear the roar of the First Fire on Thursday 30 May and witness the power of the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships on Saturday 2 June,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“The Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival celebrates what’s great about our region- from our rich agriculture to country hospitality, combined with great music, paddock to plate food, cultural activities and family-friendly entertainment.”

Local businesses are once again being invited to bring the festival to life, with a range of sponsorship opportunities available.

The sponsors of the 2018 event have already been contacted and have until Friday 7 December to return their sponsorship forms. A second round will then open on Wednesday 12 December for any remaining sponsorship opportunities.

Cr McLaughlin said there may be opportunity for further events to be added to the festival in 2019, with Council actively seeking funding opportunities.

“We want to cement the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival as a feature festival throughout Queensland.

“There’s not too many other places in Australia you can see the raw power of a sugar cane up close and feel the heat on your skin.

“The Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival is a uniquely Burdekin event.”