Orange residents will have the chance to get behind the Matildas in their final stages of Australia's Women's World Cup bid, with an extra local venue announced for a live site for Wednesday's semi- final game.
Orange City Council has announced plans to host a live-site on Wednesday night this week in the Southcourt of the Civic Square precinct.
Orange Mayor Jason Hamling says he's delighted Orange residents will now be able to share in the excitement as the Australian team takes on England.
"This is a breakthrough moment for Australian sport that's really captured the public imagination," Cr Hamling said. "I'm sure Australians will be glued to their screens, but this live site in the heart of Orange will give local families the opportunity to enjoy the feel of live sport, as it happens."
"There are three players with central west links and that adds to the connection that the people of Orange are already feeling for this match. Tameka Yallop was born in Orange, Ellie Carpenter grew up in Cowra and Clare Hunt comes from Grenfell. Orange already has a very popular women's football competition and I'm sure local youngsters are already being inspired by what the Matildas have achieved."
On Wednesday Orange Open Air Cinema will erect a large screen screen in front of the tiered seating in the South Court, between the Visitors Centre and the Regional Gallery.
"A number of local hotels and clubs will be screening the games, but we're hoping this will give residents another family-friendly option. People can bring their own chairs and blankets. There will be food vans but families are welcome to bring picnic baskets," Cr Hamling said.
"It is an outdoor venue, but I'm sure Orange locals will know how to dress for the seven degrees that's forecast for the 8pm kick-off time."
The fun begins at 6:30pm with live music from local musician Meghan Woods to keep the crowds entertained until kick-off.
Charlotte Gundry from Orange Open Air Cinema is excited to be putting the event together.
"We are thrilled to be working with Council on bringing to life this opportunity to celebrate the Matildas," Charlotte Gundry said.
"Sport has such a spectacular way of uniting people and communities, and we look forward to joining the chorus of Australians cheering on the Tillies come Wednesday night".
FREE ENTRY - please register your attendance here:
- 6:30pm: Open with food trucks available. No BYO alohol.
- 6:45 - 7:45pm: Meghan Woods performance
- 7:45pm: Welcome & Acknowledgement of Country
- 8pm: FIFA Women's World Cup Semi-Final Kick-off
- 11pm: Site closes
