Tamworth Regional Council's Taste Tamworth Festival celebration has been cancelled this year due to continuing NSW Government COVID-19 restrictions and a cautious hospitality industry during unpredictable times.
Council has been working to find alternative solutions for a COVID Safe program of events without compromising the atmosphere of Festival and keystone events such as Taste in the Park.
However, with government restrictions still in place for large outdoor events, tasting and sampling of food requirements and the need for seating of patrons at these type of events, the industry, supported by the Council has been reluctant to sign up this year.
Tamworth Business Chamber Board Member and Owner of CH Boutique Hotel, Jye Segboer, said it was a shame that the event can't go ahead but was optimistic for a recovering hospitality industry who support regional produce regularly.
"Taste Tamworth Festival brings together a range of suppliers, hospitality businesses and the Council, unfortunately during these times, restrictions and a cautious approach from the industry means that this fantastic event can't go ahead this year. We have been a regular supporter and participant of the Taste Tamworth Festival and are looking forward to being a part of it next year."
Whilst the cancellation will encompass events such as the Laneway Pop-Up Bar, Taste in the Park, The Long Lunch and High Tea. Restaurants throughout the region will remain open and offer visitors wonderful selections of local produce. Council welcomes the Dine & Discover promotion from NSW Government and the significant injection into the local economy it will produce for the hospitality industry and wider community.
Council had reached out to restaurant, food and hospitality businesses in hopes to execute a program of external activities, however a struggling industry indicated that they are just trying to keep the doors open with limited capacities due to ongoing health restrictions.
Jacqueline O'Neill, Director Growth and Prosperity at the Council said, "Whilst we won't see a Taste Festival this year, there are still many restaurants, experiences and events to enjoy in the region."
