Only the music is smokin’ on Peel Street for this year’s Festival

23 January 2019 The 2019 Toyota Country Music Festival Tamworth marks the three-year anniversary of the smoke free environment policy - music to the ears of festival-goers wanting to enjoy the entertainment safe from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. 

Councillor Helen Tickle, Tamworth Regional Council said that overall, the smoke free policy was working well thanks to community cooperation and its benefits went beyond promoting health to include environmental, social and economic benefits. 

“There has been a substantial reduction in cigarette smoking in Peel St since the policy was introduced.  A cleaner, safer and healthier atmosphere encourages locals and visitors to stay longer, fostering social connections and promoting business activity. 

“There have been some reports of a small number of individuals not observing the rules, but our approach to enforcement remains that of education and self-regulation; it’s not about fining people,” she said.

“Our Council rangers will be around during the Festival to inform people about the policy and monitor the smoke free areas for anyone not abiding by the rules. Council is also running a social media campaign and advertisements on Peel Street,” added Cr Tickle.  

“We encourage members of the community who see people smoking to gently inform them of the smoke free zone, particularly when there are so many visitors in town for the Festival who may not be aware of the policy.

“During the Festival, visitors are not able to smoke in the CBD, including in Toyota Park, as well as any areas within four metres of an outdoor dining area,” added Cr Tickle.

Heart Foundation Regional Health Promotion Coordinator for the New England Penny Milson said that the Heart Foundation was proud of its role in supporting Council to bring in the healthy policy. 

“Tamworth was the first in Australia to launch an inaugural smoke free environment policy which included a CBD-wide outdoor smoking ban and e-cigarettes. The rate of smoking in Tamworth is well above the NSW average at 19.9/100 population. In some parts of Tamworth the rate is as high as 30.3/100 population. Considering smoking is a risk factor for heart disease, this policy was much needed to try and help reduce smoking rates,” she said.

“In addition to reducing exposure to second hand smoke and sending a healthy message to children and young people, the policy also supports those who are trying to quit or have recently quit,” she added.