Events Announced Under NSW Government Open Streets Program

Upper Hunter Shire Council is proud to announce that it has received funding under the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program. This initiative is dedicated to transforming local streets into dynamic spaces that support businesses, the creative sector, and the broader community. As part of this exciting opportunity, Council will deliver three major events designed to unite our communities and celebrate our shared progress:

‘Absolutely Kelly Street – Welcome Home’: Saturday, 12 October 2024. Scone’s CBD will be the heart of a grand street party from 12pm, marking the near completion of the revitalisation project that has been transforming the area. This event will celebrate the new and improved Scone CBD, a space that promises to be a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. ‘Merriwa – Home for Christmas’: Friday, 13 December 2024. Merriwa’s CBD will be transformed into a festive wonderland, featuring local stalls and performers for an enchanting evening celebration. ‘Murrurundi – Home for Christmas’: Saturday, 14 December 2024. Road closures off the highway will make way for a spectacular Christmas event, complete with local stalls and live performances.

General Manager Greg McDonald shared, “This funding allows us to celebrate Upper Hunter Shire’s resilience and the exciting changes happening within our communities, particularly with the first phase of the revitalisation of Scone’s CBD, nearing completion. These events are not only a celebration of our progress but also an opportunity to bring everyone together, support local businesses, and enjoy the vibrant new spaces we’ve created. It’s time to come together, celebrate, and look forward to a bright future in the Upper Hunter.”

Minister for Roads, Arts, Music and the Night-Time Economy, Jobs and Tourism John Graham said:

“We’re excited to support these events in the Upper Hunter.

“Too often our main streets are something we drive through, rather than drive to. Our streets are a critical part of our public and social infrastructure. Great streets make great towns and centres and reflect the local community and culture.

“The Open Streets program is about temporarily transforming our main streets into vibrant and welcoming public event spaces.

“The colour and diversity of these 130 events celebrates the unique personality of each town or suburb. This is what our vibrancy agenda is all about, backing locals to create events and entertainment that works for their local community.”