Proposed Commercial Events - Seeking to Operate in Moree Township

Council is aware of two proposed events. 

The first is proposed at the Moree Showground, and is a night time food market. 

The second is for an amusement carnival proposed for private land in Moree at the south end of Frome Street. 

Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Katrina Humphries said, “I know people want to make a living, and also the desire in the community for entertainment. This must be balanced against the public risk, in particular if the virus spreads at one of these events.

“People can have COVID-19 without symptoms and it only takes one infected person and we have a major hot spot on our hands.  With the vulnerable people in our community, that is something we can well do without.  Hundreds could potentially be affected.” 

Director of Planning and Community Development Angus Witherby stated “Council’s considered view is that we do not support the proposed events, given the risks to the community, in particular the difficulties of managing larger groups of people and in undertaking “track and trace” should the virus become apparent.”

Following discussions, the night time food market at the Moree Showgrounds has been withdrawn, and Council greatly appreciates the proponent’s actions.  Council also appreciates Crown Land’s support.

Council understands that the amusement carnival still proposes to proceed, and the proponent has provided additional information to Council which has been assessed.  Council maintains its view that the operators require Council approval, which will not be forthcoming.  Council has formed the view that the risks cannot be fully addressed. 

Cr Humphries concluded “Community members are asked to carefully consider the risks around the event, should it proceed, and put our community first.” 

Council is continuing to pursue available avenues to see that the event does not occur.