MOUNT Gambier businesses have started “painting the town blue” as the excitement continues to build for the third installment of Fringe Mount Gambier.
And this year there is more at stake.
Fringe Mount Gambier will crown the most creative business winner of the FringeUP competition, which will land them tickets to a VIP Bar and promotion on social media and in The Border Watch.
Event coordinator Monica Hart said the competition encouraged the city’s business sector to help promote Fringe Mount Gambier.
“It is an opportunity for businesses to have fun and activate the community and streets in the lead-up to Fringe,” Ms Hart said.
“It also builds excitement, with residents and tourists being able to see that something big and exciting is coming.”
One business getting into the “blue” spirit is San Piero Coffee Bar.
Operator Peter Heuzenroeder said he was excited about the upcoming festival, adding painting his store blue was a great way to get involved.
“We are trying to get in the Fringe spirit because it’s a great event for the town and gives people something to do,” Mr Heuzenroeder said.
Yesterday, Mr Heuzenroeder invited Darrin Howard – a passionate artist from the region – to “snazz-up” the Commercial Street building.
“As an artist, it’s just great to get my work out there,” Mr Howard said.
“Walking down the main street, seeing blue in most of the windows shows there is a real community spirit building around Fringe Mount Gambier.”
Ms Hart was also thrilled with the excitement Fringe generates for the region.
“This support is so important to Fringe and we’re glad that local businesses are getting creative with their entries, that is what Fringe is all about,” Ms Hart said.
The FringeUP competition will be judged by Mount Gambier City Council’s Talie Teakle, Luke Rogers and local artist Kyra Sykes.
