Tamworth is set to see a boost to its nightlife, with the city among the first regional areas to introduce a Special Entertainment Precinct as part of the NSW Government’s push to reinvigorate after-dark economies.
The Tamworth Regional Council will receive $200,000 from the state’s $1.94 million SEP Kickstart Grant program to establish trial precincts in the CBD and at the Longyard. The aim is to create year-round entertainment opportunities, building on the success of the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Hats Off to Country, and other major events that already draw thousands of visitors.
The Special Entertainment Precinct model, first used in Sydney’s Enmore, allows councils to set local trading hours and sound rules without businesses having to undergo lengthy and expensive development approvals. Residents and prospective homebuyers are notified that these precincts will support later trading and higher sound levels, giving certainty to both businesses and the community.
Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said the move would help Tamworth harness its reputation as a hub for live music.
“Tamworth is famous for the Big Golden Guitar, but we hope it will also become renowned for a great night out,” said Mr Graham.
“Country people like a good night out as much as anyone else, so while the nightlife revival started in the city, it’s now going bush. Tamworth goes off during the country music festival, and we can’t wait to see more of that great energy throughout the year,” said Mr Graham.
The nightlife revival is part of a broader suite of reforms designed to improve regional economies after dark. These include protections for venues from single-neighbour noise complaints, reduced red tape around live music, removal of outdated restrictions such as the “5km club rule,” and extended trading opportunities for venues hosting live music.
Tamworth Mayor Russell Webb welcomed the announcement, saying it would help solidify the city’s reputation as a destination for live music and entertainment.
“We’re delighted to receive the kickstart grant for the proposed Special Entertainment Precincts in Tamworth to bolster the already energetic night-time economy we are so proud to have,” said Mayor Webb.
“Securing this funding is a major step forward in growing our night-time economy and reinforcing our position as Australia’s Country Music Capital and as a live music and entertainment destination.”
“This grant will allow us to collaborate with our venues, businesses and residents to ensure we are creating vibrant, welcoming spaces that attract visitors, encourage investment, and strengthen our city’s cultural and economic future,” said Mayor Webb.
He said the initiative was about capitalising on momentum already generated by flagship events.
“The Tamworth Country Music Festival and other major concerts, equine and sporting events see thousands of visitors flock to Tamworth each year, especially to our CBD, Longyard and Sports Precinct, and we want these visitors to keep returning and having a great day and night out in our unique region. “
“We’re excited to build on the momentum and to take advantage of this opportunity for Tamworth’s future,” said Mayor Webb.
Member for Tamworth and Shadow Minister for the Arts Kevin Anderson said the precinct is an opportunity to highlight the great talent living in the region.
“The Tamworth Region is home to many incredibly talented artists and musicians, so it makes sense to give venues the stages and gig times they need to support and foster that talent,” Mr Anderson said.
“From the country music festival, to your average Friday night, Tamworth is a live music city, and the Special Entertainment Precinct is one way we support our venues in putting on shows and entertainment for locals.”
Peter Ross, Executive Manager Creative Communities & Experiences at Tamworth Regional Council, said the funding reinforces Tamworth’s role as a leading regional cultural hub.
“The two proposed precincts align with our vision for Tamworth as a premier entertainment, cultural and events destination, further strengthening our reputation as Australia’s Country Music Capital,” Mr Ross said.
The precincts will be shaped through consultation with businesses, residents, creatives, police and local leaders. 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said this flexibility was at the heart of the model’s success.
“The great thing about the Special Entertainment model is that it has been designed to be adaptable to different settings. Councils are best placed to work out what makes sense in their context,” said Mr Rodrigues.
“As both residents and country music festival goers well know, Tamworth’s entertainment areas are on either side of the Peel River. So, I get why council is thinking about two trial areas. Consultation is key, and this funding will help councils work with the community to get the settings right,” said Mr Rodrigues.
Community members are invited to provide feedback on the proposed Special Entertainment Precincts by visiting haveyoursay.tamworth.nsw.gov.au/special-entertainment-precincts. Feedback will guide Council’s approach, with further reports and recommendations to be presented to Councillors later this year.
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