The feature event will be the Tamworth Show, which is being staged at the AELEC for the first time in its long history, while the inaugural Tamworth Cycling Festival will be closer to town, including a criterium track in the CBD and hill climb up the Oxley Lookout.

On Sunday, Tamworth will celebrate 200 years since European settlement, as the historical society hosts a big day centred around Bicentennial Park, while just out of town the inaugural Kootingal Country Fair is also expected to draw big numbers.

While the majority of the anticipated crowds are expected to be from within the region, hundreds of visitors are also expected for the Father’s Day weekend.

Tamworth Business Chamber president Jye Segboer said the big weekend was another great opportunity to showcase the area and boost morale during the drought.

“Any time there are events or activities that attract both local attendance and overnight visitation, local businesses reap the rewards of the flow-on effect,” he said.

“We encourage the community to get out and support not only the events on in the region this weekend, but stop in and have a coffee in a café or visit a local retailer while you are out and about as well.”

Chief stewardess of the Tamworth Show, Janelle Tongue, thanked locals and visitors for the overwhelming support shown to the event and new venue, especially in tough times.

“It is shaping up really well, and very exciting to be at the AELEC at last,” she said.

“It is really worth coming out and seeing the colour and creativity – we are so grateful to the Tamworth community and beyond for coming out and supporting us this year.”