HOSTING AN EVENT
Cook Shire Council supports and encourages events and festivals that showcase our diverse region. Events provide opportunities for economic growth, strengthen community spirit, and enhance participation, engagement, creativity, and wellbeing. They are an essential part of life within Cook Shire.
Depending on the nature of your event, how many people will be attending and where your event is being held, you may need to apply for several different permits and licenses. Similarly, event planners must comply with a number of health and safety protocols and regulations all of which are outlined in our Event Information Kit.
Event Information Kit
To assist organisations, individuals, and community groups planning events in Cook Shire, we have developed the Event Information Kit. This kit provides an overview of key aspects of the event planning process and is designed to help you understand Council’s requirements and procedures. It includes information on:
- Licences
- Approvals
- Bookings
- Potential risks to address for a safe and successful event
The Event Information Kit is a guide and not a definitive resource, as each event will have its specific requirements and needs. Applications must be submitted according to the timelines outlined in Section 33 of the Event Information Kit to ensure adequate time for Council to assess and review your submission.
Do I need an Event Permit?
You will need a permit if you answer YES to any of the following:
- Are you providing entertainment to the public?
- Will you have more than 200 people attending your event?
- Will your event have any catering, infrastructure, fireworks, or amplified sound?
- Will your event impact neighbouring residents or businesses?
For more information, please download the Event Application Kit or contact Council to talk to our Events team.
Events in Council Venues
From community fundraisers, to private functions for 50 or more guests, to host an event or undertake activities in Council venues and parks, or on Council roads, you are required to complete a Holding a Public Place Activity application to obtain approval from Cook Shire Council.
Examples of these types of events or activities include but are not limited to:
- Sport and Recreational Events or Competitions
- Weddings
- Special Events (e.g., fairs, fetes, markets, or functions)
- Fitness Classes and Personal Training
- Concerts
- Promotions
- Conferences
- Training
- Filming and Photography
- Circuses
- Horse/Camel/Pony Rides
- Equipment Hire (including aquatic equipment)
- Placement of Temporary Structures (e.g., fencing, scaffolding, or gantries on public land)
- Storage of Equipment and Materials on Public Land
- Use of Crane or Cherry Picker on Public Land
- Placement of Skip Bin or Shipping Container on Public Land
- Vehicle Access to Parks
- Helicopter Landings
- Fireworks on Public Land
- Roadside or Itinerant Vending
Completing the Venue Hire process for popular public spaces such as William Daku Park, John Street Oval is required. Please contact Council for more information.
Filming and Photography
With the spectacular Great Barrier Reef on our doorstep, and featuring a diverse array of humbling natural landscapes, environ, vistas, cultural sites and communities, Cook Shire is an ideal location for filming, photography, documentaries, television programs, and commercials.
If you are a professional videographer, photographer or an event organizer looking to engage a professional videographer/photographer, please complete and submit a Film and Television Activities Application form.
Useful links: