Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch recently hosted local industry representatives at a session to discuss the NSW Government’s agenda to support the night-time economy and the extension of the operations of 24-hour Commissioner to the Central Coast.
Minister for Arts and Music and Night-Time Economy John Graham and NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Michael Rodrigues, attended the session, held at the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music.
They addressed about 70 people from local industry.
The evening began with a performance by local musician Hannah-Rae Caulfield before Minister Graham and Commissioner Rodrigues discussed the Government’s commitment to work with local government and venues to create an entertainment precinct on the Central Coast.
Using Sydney and the larger international movement as seen in New York, Paris and London as a model, Rodrigues will lead a co-ordinated and collaborative effort with Council, communities, industry and creatives on the Central Coast to build a strong and vibrant night-time economy that prioritises live entertainment.
Central Coast Council’s Administrator and Director of Community and Recreations Services, Mel Smith, joined the discussion, saying Council will be working with the Government to deliver Safer Cities – Her Way to improve safety in Gosford and is currently working on a Night Time Economy Strategy.
“This session is just the starting point to drive change for the Central Coast’s live music scene as well as the night-time economy; change that will see the region come alive and thrive through music and performance,” Tesch said.
“We have such amazing creative talent on the Coast, and it will be fantastic moving forward to unite community efforts and magnify opportunities for our local musos and the talented people working in the sector.
“I am committed to ensuring Coasties are able to enjoy live music and the night-time economy in a way we have never experienced before.”
Graham said the Government had made an election commitment that the Central Coast would be the first place to benefit from the 24-hour Economy Commissioner.
“The Central Coast has its own incredible collection of venues, artists and nightlife businesses that make it such a great place to live, work and visit,” he said.
“But it also has its own unique set of challenges when it comes to operating at night and that’s why expanding the remit of the Commissioner is so important.”
Source:
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch