Council has moved to clear the air after copping criticism for removing signs promoting community events.
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Earlier this year, the Tiny Tykes markets and Sprout and About markets had signs removed and fines issued by Wagga City Council, which led to fierce backlash and subsequent waiver of the fees.
Councillors labelled the fines “absurd” and voted on two occasions to pay the fines on behalf of the community groups.
Community director Janice Summerhayes said council wanted to assist in promoting events and pointed to a new policy for booking fixed signage areas across the city.
“These guidelines clearly outline who is eligible to erect temporary signage and the process they need to follow when promoting their event,” Ms Summerhayes said.
“We want to assist in the promotion of local events, ensure they are promoted in appropriate locations and stem any confusion that previously has resulted in the removal of temporary signage.”
Event organisers can now to choose from eight approved locations for displaying their temporary event signage and fixed structures will be erected to attach signage to.
The eight approved locations are:
- Jubilee Park, Corner Red Hill Rd and Bourke Street
- Lake Albert, Corner Lake Albert Road and Lakeside Drive
- Hampden Avenue, North Wagga, near Wilks Park
- Corner of Macleay Street and Lord Baden Powell Drive
- Lake Albert Road, near Copland Street
- Corner of Tarcutta and Cross Street
- Cox Park, Kincaid Street
- Bolton Park, Tarcutta Street
Each event organiser will be eligible to erect up to six signs to advertise their community event, including a maximum of four in approved locations and two at the event location.
Tiny Tykes markets founder Donna Field welcomed the changes and said it would “make it much easier for us to advertise our local events”.
Council confirmed there would be no cost for using those areas.
View the full list of locations, conditions, assess your eligibility or apply for a booking at www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/temporaryeventsigns.