Groovin the Moo locked in for five more years in Bunbury

As music fans recover from another successful Groovin the Moo festival at the weekend, it would be music to the ears of many that the popular event will return to Bunbury for another five years.

The City of Bunbury has secured the festival for a further five years, taking its time in the city to nearly 14 years in total.

GTM event manager Sarah Foster said organisers were proud to take music to regional cities, adding that the festival benefited the entire community.

“We’re excited, it’s really good for us as a company over east to bring music to regional areas,” Ms Foster said.

“I think it’s really important what Groovin does for the community and how we can watch it grow for another five years.

“Ninety per cent of the events team that work here are from Bunbury and surrounds and we use as many community groups as possible and even local DJs.”

“We love it and we’re really glad to be staying here for five more years.”

Thousands flocked to Hay Park for the ninth instalment of the festival in Bunbury on Saturday.

Mayor Gary Brennan said having the festival in Bunbury for another five years was a “brilliant” outcome for the city.

“GTM provides a significant economic boost to our city, surrounding towns and also attracts a raft of young people to our city to enjoy the event,” Mr Brennan said.

“For many, they may not have been here before ... so the more exposure that the city gets from visitors – particularly first time visitors – is invaluable.”

Mr Brennan acknowledged the benefits to the community, including groups such as the Carey Park Football Club which again provided a camping ground for festival-goers.

“Everyone right across the community wins,” he said.

“The actual amount of spend would have to be estimated, but it would be significant – hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“From my point of view, what a great place to have an event like that ... they (organisers) know it’s a popular location, it’s an easy commute from Perth, so I think all the ducks line up for the organisers.”