By Dominique Tassell
Granite Belt Music Council met with Southern Downs Regional Council last week, in what was reportedly a productive meeting.
Kelvin Johnson from Granite Belt Music Council said that while they were expected a meeting with Mayor Vic Pennisi and Chief Executive Dave Burges, they instead had a meeting with the head of the planning department.
“It was a really beneficial meeting,” he said.
Kelvin said the staff member now “has a full appreciation of what we’re trying to do”.
“We don’t want a fortitude valley,” he said.
Kelvin said they discussed what the Granite Belt Music Council would like to see provided for the community, which is that when events are held they can invoke a special precinct.
He said they’re trying to get visitors to town to come back.
“It will help the industry and all the town and the businesses to prosper,” he said. “If (visitors) don’t get that experience, they don’t come back.”
“We were very clear on that and gave a list of all the areas that we want to be involved.”
Kelvin said Weeroona Park and the piazza are the big ones, but they would also like to see Stanthorpe Little Theatre, the railway precinct, and the showgrounds involved.
“We want Council to do the lifting of the heavy weight and make the decisions that will benefit the town,” he said. “If we don’t do it, the Council will be remiss.”
Kelvin said it’s up to them.
“Do they want vibrancy, tourism, businesses to flourish?”
He said the ball is really in their court now.
“We’ve done the homework, told them why, they’ve heard from the big tourism groups.
“It would be good to see them step up and do the job required to benefit the region.”
Kelvin said their events in Weeroona Park have been a massive success, and have seen them fundraise enough to support the acts.
He said they raised 500 dollars from a raffle at the Murphy’s Pigs gig, and have now turned an initial $150 into over $1000.
They hope to apply for a Bendigo Bank grant soon.
“It’s a great little arts community we’re trying to develop,” Kelvin said.
The next performance at Weeroona Park will feature Belinda Lister and Friends on 24 September from 11 am to Midday.
Attendees will be entertained by The Noteworthy String Ensemble and The Occasional Players String Quartet with guest conductor Evalyn Legried. They will be performing a selection of light classics and music from the movies.
