Wangi Wangi’s live music and entertainment scene is set to boom with the launch of a pilot program to help businesses emerge from COVID-19 pandemic.
Lake Macquarie City is working with the NSW Government to establish a special entertainment precinct in an attempt to revive local businesses and live music, and stimulate the local night-time economy.
President of Wangi RSL Club Les McAllister said the event series, named Wangi Live, would be a lifeline for businesses hit hard during the pandemic.
“Trade was scarily slow, we were worried it wouldn’t pick up at all,” McAllister said.
“Wangi Live will promote Wangi Wangi big time, and it’ll be a great thing for local businesses. They’ll get a lot out of it.”
Lake Macquarie Deputy Mayor Jason Pauling said Council would work with the NSW government, businesses and local authorities throughout the pilot program.
“We want to see our night-time economy thrive, while ensuring it’s safe and inviting,” Pauling said.
“Wangi Wangi is so unique, it’s right on the water and has so much to offer visitors who wish to attend upcoming events.”
Lake Macquarie City was among three NSW councils selected to host a Special Entertainment Precinct, alongside Inner West Council and City of Sydney.
Council outlined that the dedicated entertainment precinct could include a mix of core night-time economy businesses, from live music and entertainment venues, to bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as retail and other services.
“The program will ensure tourists and local residents have access to quality entertainment spaces, provide and retain local jobs and support the local economy,” Lake Macquarie City advised.
“Wangi Wangi has so much to offer from quality food and beverage businesses to creative opportunities, as well as a passionate community.”
“This pilot aims to trial measures to protect live music and performance venues and support the creative industries and night-time economy.”
If the pilot is successful, the program will inform legislative pathways and will be rolled out to councils across NSW.
“We look forward to working with the Wangi Wangi community to make this program a great success,” a statement on Lake Macqaurie City’s website said.
Council has invited all local businesses and stakeholders to be part of the month-long entertainment program, and has encouraged interested parties to join an online information session on 17 February at 6.30pm.
Maia O’Connor