The next round of Special Business Rate (SBR) funding is set to ignite fresh energy in Newcastle, with $880,000 on offer to boost the promotion, beautification and economic development of Darby Street and the City Centre.
Opening Monday 11 August, this latest round of SBR funding is aimed at innovative ideas that breathe new life into local precincts, encouraging business growth and cultural vibrancy in key parts of the city.
With Newcastle in the midst of a transformation, the funding helps ensure that public spaces remain dynamic, welcoming, and economically active.
The return of the crowd-favourite WinterHeat Festival is one of the many success stories powered by SBR support. Reignited in 2024, the event drew more than 12,000 people to Pacific Park with a blazing combination of fire cannons, live entertainment, a silent disco and a lively Kids’ Zone.
The 2025 festival, set for 16 August, will mark its 21st birthday with even more fire-themed festivities, a local dining precinct, live music, and the beloved Eat the Heat chilli eating contest.
The City of Newcastle’s ongoing collaboration with the Business Improvement Association ensures SBR funding is not just about one-off events, it’s about sustained community and economic impact.
Alongside WinterHeat, SBR is also backing Bernie’s Bar’s 100 Years of the Star Hotel celebration from 29 August, a three-day festival of history talks, live music, drag performances, archive footage and a new historical marker to honour the site’s legacy.
Other recent funding rounds have supported events and initiatives in Wallsend and Hamilton, including the Wallsend Op Shop Trail, the spooky Wallsend Frights Halloween event, and the upcoming Newcastle Fringe Festival in 2026.
Applications for the Darby Street and City Centre SBR funding round are open from 11 to 31 August. Interested applicants can attend an online information session on Wednesday, 13 August. Head to the City of Newcastle website for full details.
