FOR the first time in its history, the Junee Rhythm 'n' Rail Festival will charge visitors and locals to enter the event this year.
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On Saturday, March 7, adults will be charged $10 to enter the festival precinct - which will be around Broadway.
Children will be charged $5, but it will include an unlimited pass on rides and attractions inside the gates.
A family pass will be available for $25.
The festival precinct will open from 10am on the first full day of the festival and run until 8pm, offering live entertainment and activities.
There will be no entry fee on Sunday, March 8.
Mayor and festival committee chairman Neil Smith defended the move stating it aimed at ensuring the event would be sustainable and grow over time.
"This step had to be taken so the festival is sustainable for future committees," councillor Smith said.
"Any new committee which comes in will be encouraged if they have the added a backstop of financial resources to fund the festival.
"The alternative is no money in the bank and volunteers have to raise funds very quickly, very early to pay for promotion, attractions, performers and management," Cr Smith said.
He said the professional management had helped grow the event since its return in 2011.
"I don't believe we would have gotten anywhere near the size we are without professional management."
The festival has also received a vote of confidence from the state government with Destination NSW handing over $10,000 in funding through the flagship regional events program.
"It recognises the value of the festival and it's worth funding from the state," Cr Smith said.
The money isn't handed straight over, Cr Smith said and committee members have to apply for it each year.
"It shows the festival is growing and moving in the right direction.