Australian UFO Festival Secures Support

In Cardwell, Queensland, The Australian UFO Festival has been announced as a successful recipient of funding through Homegrown – Queensland’s Destination Events Fund, an initiative delivered by Tourism and Events Queensland on behalf of the Queensland Government.

The funding will support the engagement of a professional consultant to develop a comprehensive three-to-five-year strategic plan, focused on strengthening governance, enhancing visitor experience, and ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the festival.

Festival Manager Thea Ormonde said the announcement marks an important milestone for the community-led event.

“We are incredibly grateful to Tourism and Events Queensland and the Queensland Government for recognising the value and potential of the Australian UFO Festival. Being selected through Homegrown – Queensland’s Destination Events Fund shows real confidence in this unique regional event and the role it plays in supporting tourism in North Queensland.”

Since its grassroots beginnings, the Australian UFO Festival has grown into a distinctive multi-day event blending science, storytelling, arts, community engagement and tourism that attract visitors from across Queensland and interstate.

“We’ve always had the vision of growing the Festival into a signature tourism event, not just for Cardwell, but for the Cassowary Coast and Queensland,” Ms Ormonde said.

“This funding allows us to build strong foundations for sustainable growth, ensuring we continue to support local businesses, attract visitors, and deliver a truly unique experience under the North Queensland stars.”

The strategic planning process will focus on long-term sustainability, programming development, partnership growth, and strengthening the festival’s contribution to Queensland’s dynamic events calendar.

Message from the Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation, the Honourable Andrew Powell MP who writes -

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Australian UFO Festival, an event that celebrates the energy and diversity of the Cassowary Coast region.

The Queensland Government is proud to support the Australian UFO Festival through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Homegrown – Queensland’s Destination Events Fund, which backs events developed in our state and helps connect them with the unique destinations they call home.

Homegrown events play an important role in showcasing new ideas, celebrating culture, and creating memorable experiences for visitors, while contributing to Queensland’s vibrant and diverse events calendar.

Beyond the Australian UFO Festival, there is so much to see and experience in the Cassowary Coast. I encourage visitors to take the opportunity to explore the region and enjoy the wide range of tourism opportunities that Queensland has to offer.

I want to congratulate the organisers and all those involved in delivering the Australian UFO Festival for their outstanding efforts and for playing a vital role in Queensland’s dynamic Homegrown events sector.

The Australian UFO Festival will return to Cardwell in August 2026, continuing its celebration of curiosity, community and the unexplained.

For more information visit: www.australianufofestival.com.au

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