Council postpones Rock on the River until January 20, 2024

Published on 30 November 2023

Council wishes to inform the community of our decision to postpone Rock on the River scheduled for this Saturday (2nd December) to January 20th, 2024. This decision, though difficult, has been taken due to the forecasted rain and thunderstorm activity, and we believe it is in the best interest of everyone involved.

Federation Council Mayor, Cr Pat Bourke said over the last 48 hours especially, Council and its contracted event management company have received numerous phone calls with concerns from vendors and the general public due to the forecast conditions. 

“We did consider moving the event to an enclosed venue, but felt that it would ruin the aesthetic of the event that we have designed for it to be - Rock on the River,” he said.

“Council conducted a site inspection early this morning of Rowers Park and it is quite wet underfoot, there is also a pool of water within the event site. Whilst a lot of things are in our control when it comes to event management, the weather unfortunately is not.”

Mayor Bourke said Staff advised Council that event infrastructure installation at this point in time also has the potential to damage the foreshore given the wet condition of the ground.

“The risk of damaging the foreshore area in the heart of Corowa is something Council and our staff are not supportive of,” he said.

“This site is too important to Council and the community and all vendors involved in the event have agreed. What has been most comforting is that Staff have spoken to all musicians and vendors involved in our Rock on the River event and they have been more than understanding of the postponement date. They have all locked in their availability for the new date on January 20, 2024 which is a great result. They would rather attend an event that is safe and enjoyable for all involved on a new date, than wait for Council to make a decision on the day pending weather changes. There is a lot that goes into preparing for an event of this type and scale, so the earlier we can provide notice of postponement to our vendors and community, the better the outcome is for everyone involved. I am confident we have made the right decision.”

Mayor Bourke said this was a difficult decision, but one made with the safety of the community and Council’s event partners at the forefront. 

“Council continues to monitor weather conditions for Light up Corowa, and at this stage are still comfortable to move ahead with hosting this event scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, December 1 at Bangerang Park,” he said.

“We thank our partners, vendors and community partners for their support to postpone Saturday’s event. We look forward with anticipation to January where we can host Rock on the River for our community and tourists visiting our region to enjoy.”

To find out more about the North of the Murray Event Series, visit www.northofthemurray.com.au