Due to consistent wet weather impacting the water-logged Armidale Sportsground and the predicted wet weather again this weekend for Armidale, organisers of the Big Chill Festival have made the decision to move the festival to the Armidale Showground.
The team have acted quickly to ensure the popular event can still be held with minimal disruption and to avoid significant long-term damage to the playing fields at the sportsground that could have seen the venue out of action for many months.
The Armidale Showground is located adjacent to the sportsground and it was a logical alternative as it's physically on higher ground and has an established road network that can cater better for heavy vehicles during the event setup and operations.
Activations and Precincts Manager Renata Davis said utilising a close, well resourced community asset as an easy alternative is a great position to be in.
"We can't thank the Armidale Showground Trust enough for their quick response and support in making this happen. Many other festivals have been cancelled in the last six months and we are determined to not make the Big Chill Festival another casualty."
"The Big Chill is a significant driver for our local economy and brings millions of dollars into our region. Understanding the importance the Big Chill has on our local economy means cancelling the event was simply not an option."
