Summer is set to sizzle in the Mount Gambier city centre, with the activation of Watson Terrace on weekends.


“Summer on Watson” kicked off on Sunday and will continue through most weekends as a trial until January 28.


‘Summer on Watson’ is a program of events developed in consultation with Mount Gambier City Council, local businesses and community interest groups to activate the CBD.


Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said council wanted to encourage collaboration and partnerships, with the CBD activation to bring together existing and supported events and activities over a 10-week period, including markets, after work drinks, live music, food and wine and yoga in the park.


“Council hopes to generate energy and vibrancy within the CBD as a place for people to gather,” she said.


“We want people to move around and encourage street life including indoor/outdoor dining and lively civic spaces.


Fairy lights will be hung in the Cave Garden/Thugi to create atmosphere with council providing a stage and power to host entertainment.”


Summer on Watson kicked off with the Blue Lake Fun Run finish line on Watson Terrace on Sunday morning.


Mayor Martin said following the news the New Year’s Eve Festival organised by community committee Mount Gambier Community Events Management Inc has been cancelled, council will investigate the inclusion of a New Years Eve celebration as part of the CBD activation.


The activation program is in accordance with Council’s CBD Guiding principles and follows a Motion of Notice proposed by Councillor Max Bruins at the August 2023 council meeting.


Watson Terrace will remain open during weekdays and will be closed during activated weekends.


Local businesses and community groups are encouraged to contact Council’s community events team at city@mountgambier.sa.gov.au to be involved in the activation.