Whyalla's Cuttlefest secures funding and wraps up record season
Whyalla City Council is celebrating a double win for its winter event, Cuttlefest, with the announcement of funding through the South Australian Tourism Commission’s Regional Event Fund and the conclusion of another highly successful season.
The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) recently confirmed that Cuttlefest was among the successful recipients of a two-year sponsorship under the 2025/2026 Regional Event Fund. This program aims to support event organisers to grow their events, drive tourism visitation and expenditure in South Australia’s regions, and contribute to the promotion of Whyalla and the Eyre Peninsula as a tourism destination.
Cuttlefest continues to grow as a tourism and cultural experience, offering everything from snorkelling tours and glass-bottom boat rides to art workshops, public talks, and children’s activities. This year saw the introduction of a new initiative supported by Santos – Whyalla’s first Cuttlefish Concierge – with local marine enthusiast Carlo Possagno greeting visitors through his knowledge, storytelling, and warm welcome. Social media was full of praise for Carlo’s role, with visitors describing him as “invaluable” and “the perfect choice for the position.”
Mr Possagno said the role has been both an honour and a natural extension of his long-time passion for the species, “being chosen as Whyalla’s first Cuttlefish Concierge was an unexpected honour, but it felt like a perfect fit because of my passion for these incredible creatures. I loved sharing knowledge with visitors and seeing their excitement – especially the kids coming off the glass-bottom boats. It was amazing to have people from all over the world experiencing something so special.”
Cuttlefish Concierge - Carlo Possagno
Mayor Phill Stone said the announcement of funding was a huge boost for the event, “this support gives us the confidence to keep growing Cuttlefest and sharing it with the world. It’s not every day you get funding to celebrate thousands of quirky cuttlefish turning up in your own backyard – and we’re thrilled that visitors love it just as much as locals do.”
RDAEP CEO Ryan Viney welcomed the announcement, saying the support helps events like Cuttlefest thrive, attract visitors, and bring economic and social benefits to communities while aligning with the region’s strategy to grow visitation and deliver stronger outcomes.
Tourism Lead Jenny Barnes agreed, adding that the concierge initiative in particular captured the heart of the event. “Carlo has been an absolute star – part guide, part storyteller! Visitors loved having someone on-site who was passionate and knowledgeable.”
Mrs Barnes also commended the efforts of Visitor Centre staff, who operated a pop-up information stand at the cuttlefish dive site every day during the months of June and July. “This seasonal information stand offered visitor support, local insights, merchandise, and promotional materials—enhancing the Cuttlefest experience and encouraging length of stay” she added.
With the new funding support, Council plans to invest in targeted marketing campaigns, ongoing post-event evaluation, and program enhancements to ensure Cuttlefest continues to grow as one of South Australia’s signature regional tourism events.
“We’re thrilled to see Cuttlefest recognised with this funding – it gives us the confidence to dream bigger and keep improving.” said Mayor Stone.
A full report on this year’s Cuttlefest will be presented at the September Council meeting, including final visitor numbers and economic impact.