Busking, traffic, price-gouging, lack of atmosphere and family-friendly activities in Peel St were the big topics on the table as council’s newly elected country music manager Barry Harley, business and events director John Sommerlad and the region’s mayor, Col Murray, faced the music.

One of the suggestions happily accepted by council was the creation of a specific “food mall” in the Bourke St to Brisbane St area of Peel St.

This would have the primarily foodie-type businesses banding together to help offset the isolation at that end of the strip and attract pedestrian traffic.

Another idea was that council invest some time and money into the erection of a new stage in Bicentennial Park, which could be used year-round if it was positioned correctly. 

At present, the council pays hire fees for a portable stage at the northern end of the park.

The council was questioned on a number of issues, including specific financial details, which Cr Murray was happy to discuss.

“Council invested $1.9 million  and received $1.5 million through sponsorship and other revenue sources, leaving a deficit of $400,000,” Cr Murray said.

“Any council in Australia would happily cop a deficit of $400,000 to get a guaranteed injection of over $50 million into their town.” 

The majority of comments on keeping Brisbane St open to traffic were favourable, with one suggestion – greeted warmly – that it be closed for only the main weekend.

Cr Murray said he was extremely pleased with the turnout and appreciated the public input, both good and bad.

“It’s nights like that one that have kept this festival pretty relevant over the years,” he said.

“The festival is owned by such a large cross-section of the community and having that input is vital to its continued success.

“There’s no specifications or plans to hold a festival like this. It’s a work in progress, and whether people are prepared to accept it or not, it will keep changing into the future.”

* See the special report in Saturday’s Leader