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MEDIA RELEASES EQUINE CENTRE ESSENTIAL Independent candidate for the seat of Tamworth in the forthcoming NSW State election Peter Draper believes a multi use facility capable of hosting major events for the equine industry is essential if Tamworth is to retain its status within the industry. The Equitana expo held in Brisbane earlier this year attracted over 50,000 visitors and lead to exposure for the city not only across Australia, but also across the world. The equine industry is a growth industry, and Tamworth is uniquely positioned to take advantage of this growth if a suitable facility was to be developed. Tamworth has already proven its ability to host events the size of Equitana given the success of the annual Country Music Festival, yet the National Cutting Horse Finals have been lost to Toowoomba and it is possible that the Futurity will follow. "The Chudleigh report recommended alternative models be developed for an equine and livestock complex in Tamworth. For a venue to be successful it must be sustainable in the long term, it must have the support of user groups, and it must be capable of hosting major events and providing suitable facilities for competitors and spectators alike," commented Mr Draper. "Tamworth needs such a venue to retain existing events, and to prevent other cities taking advantage of the current situation. It is important for the city to look to the future, and not hope to retain prestigious events with outdated facilities. I would like to see an alternative plan developed that would help Tamworth continue to be at the forefront of the industry," Mr Draper concluded. End Release |