The hosts of next year's Otago Goldfields Heritage Trust Cavalcade are asking Clutha ratepayers to dip into their pockets to help pay the running costs of the major event to be hosted in Southland.
Next week's West Otago Community Board meeting will decide if it wants the Clutha District Council to financially support the 2009 cavalcade which will finish in the township of Waikaka next February.
In a letter to the board, cavalcade convener Paul McCarthy said the cavalcade had been a prominent event in the communities of Otago and Southland for the past 18 years and the Waikaka event would be no different.
"The Waikaka community has come together to continue the tradition of southern hospitality towards the cavalcaders and visitors to the area."
Hosting such an event incurred significant costs, including marquees, permits, toilets and other expenses, forcing organisers to look for financial help.
A significant number of the area's residents live in the Clutha district and the organisers said the event would showcase the district. It was asking for $3000.
"A number of riders will be traversing through the Clutha region so this is a tremendous opportunity for the council to show its support of such a prominent local event.
"The rides and the final ride to the host township are well covered by national and local media so the area of Clutha will be showcased to the country."
