February 18, 2009
Tickets have gone on sale for a spectacular entertainment showcase to officially open the region’s newest tourist and industry attraction - the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre - on Saturday February 21.
AELEC will be formally introduced to the public, associations and dignitaries through an impressive 90 minute extravaganza boasting performances by local and international talent. Governor Marie Bashir will join Mayor James Treloar in officially welcoming all guests to the event.
Built by Tamworth Regional Council at a project cost of $30million, AELEC has already seen thousands of visitors and animals since opening in September – but this month’s spectacular is a star-studded official premiere for the centre.
The theatrical performances are a celebration of the historical contribution of the horse to the nation, with the theme of ‘Australia- the Journey So Far’. The event will feature riders and never before seen horse acts, trained by the legendary horseman Heath Harris, the man behind the Man from Snowy River & Phar Lap fame.
It includes a moving tribute to the heritage of the Australian Light Horse brigade with an historic re-enactment of the of the Light Horse charge of Beersheba.
Olympic medal winners and international riders Heath and Rozzie Ryan are also on the bill, along with reigning 2008 Australian Horseman of the Year, Dan James and a local school spectacular showcasing a diverse range of talent, including a special horse puppets segment.
Golden Guitar Winners Troy Cassar-Daley and Warren H Williams also headline the stellar cast. A Yarraman traditional welcome to country will feature didgeridoo performer Mark Atkins, who recently appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Australia,’ and an Aboriginal dance troupe.
AELEC Venue Manager, Mike Rowland said: “The Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre is unlike any other venue. Its ability to cater to a varied range of disciplines and event types has already shown positive return to Tamworth and the region. The Grand Opening Spectacular is set to be an amazing night and we hope to see as many attend to witness history being made.”
Tickets are on sale through Tourism Tamworth and can be purchased by phone (02) 6767 5300, over the internet at Ticket Sales or over the counter at the Tamworth Visitor Information Centre. Adult tickets are $30 and Children twelve years and under are $15. There is a Family ticket at $75 for two adults and two children. Those wishing to attend are recommended to purchase tickets early with the event expected to sell-out.