Posted: January 25, 2012

Organising committees in Stanthorpe and Warwick have met this morning, considered the weather forecast and made the difficult decision to move Australia Day events into the Stanthorpe Civic Centre and the Warwick Town Hall.

Warwick Tourism & Events CEO Tracy Vellacott expressed disappointment at the change of venue but was confident that Warwick’s program would still rouse some proud Aussies to enjoy an Australia Day concert and to recognise new citizens and cheer on Australia Day Award recipients.

“We’re extremely sad that we lose our fireworks, the children’s activities and our foodies but the reality is that even if it doesn’t rain, it will be miserable outdoors anyway,” Mrs Vellacott said.

“Unfortunately animal droppings from the pet nursery and greasy burger and chip remnants crunched into the carpet would not be welcomed by Town Hall staff and the jumping castle and giant slide simply won’t fit,” she joked.

The Warwick program will still commence at 4pm with entertainment prior to the official ceremony at 6pm.

Stanthorpe organiser Greg Thouard was also upbeat about the Civic Centre event and noted that the last time that Australia Day was relocated inside because of inclement weather was in 1986.

“We had a good run,” he said.

Stanthorpe’s indoor program will still commence at 2pm, with variety entertainment until the civic ceremonies commence at 3.45pm.

“Celebrations will continue after the formalities but sadly, chain saw events, woodchops and billy boiling will not go too well on the floor of the civic centre so will be dropped from the program,” Mr Thouard added with a smile.

For more information on Australia Day celebrations, contact Warwick Tourism & Events CEO, Tracy Vellacott on (07) 4661 9073 or Greg Thouard in Stanthorpe on (07) 4681 5515.

ENDS
Media Contact:
Tracy Vellacott
Chief Executive Officer
Warwick Tourism & Events
(07) 4661 9073