Bringing the city to life

“This is a positive step forward in shaping Mount Gambier as a vibrant, creative destination.”

That is how Cr Frank Morello views a new City of Mount Gambier initiative that is looking to bring a new energy and vibrancy to Mount Gambier’s city centre.

Summer on Watson is the name of this council brainchild which is looking to put together a program of events developed in consultation with local businesses and community interest groups to activate the Cave Garden precinct.

“Enlivening the CBD over the summer months, during the peak tourism season, will stimulate the precinct, showcase our creatives and give visitors and residents an opportunity to come together and enjoy some outdoor live entertainment,” Cr Morello said.

“Let’s celebrate our city, embrace our mild summer nights and bring a little Leigh Street to Watson Terrace.”

The Blue Lake Fun Run on Sunday was the official kickstarting of the Summer on Watson program and while at this stage the programmed events are long standing annual events, hopes are high the concept will grow wings between now and when it winds up on January 28 next year.

Summer on Watson will focus on weekend activities with City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin OAM saying hopes were high people would get a feel for the concept and it would build momentum.

“We want to encourage collaboration and partnerships and the CBD activation will bring together existing and supported events and activities over a 10-week period, including markets, after work drinks, live music, food and wine and yoga in the park,” Mayor Martin said.

“We want people to move around and encourage street life including indoor/outdoor dining and lively civic spaces. Fairy lights will be hung in the Cave Garden/Thugi to create atmosphere with council providing a stage and power to host entertainment.

“Following the news that the New Year’s Eve Festival organised by community committee Mount Gambier Community Events Management Inc has been cancelled, council will investigate the inclusion of a New Years Eve celebration as part of the CBD activation.”

The activation program is in accordance with Council’s CBD Guiding principles and follows a Motion of Notice proposed by Cr Max Bruins at the August meeting.

Local businesses and community groups are encouraged to contact Council’s community events team at [email protected] to be involved in the activation.

For further information about the CBD Activation view the FAQs and events calendar on the City of Mount Gambier website.

Watson Terrace will remain open during weekdays and will be closed during activated week