The City Of Perth council is threatening to jeopardise Origin NYE celebrations, leaving the mini festival without a home after it rejected a proposal to hold the event at Wellington Square.
Origin’s first-release tickets were snapped up immediately after being released earlier in the week, but that wasn’t enough to quell the council’s concerns over the size of the event and the impact 15,000 expected punters could have on local residents.
“So as you’ve probably all seen, the City of Perth in their infinite wisdom have decided to reject our NYE show,” Origin’s official Facebook page posted. “We will be working on a replacement venue and will be making a statement shortly. Thanks for your understanding.”
Last year’s Wiz Khalifa and A$AP Rocky-headlined Origin festival was held at the riverside Ozone Reserve. Organisers were seeking to move 2014’s event 1.4 kilometres towards the CBD.
Reports claim the WA Police and Public Transport Authority opposed the Wellington Square move due to the festival’s inability to adequately provide public transport as well as past instances of antisocial behaviour.
“I think we have proven it’s just not working for residents,” Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi told The West Australian.
“Each time we’ve had a concert (at Wellington Square) there’s been a problem,” added Councillor Judy McEvoy. “As far as I’m concerned everyone can go to (clubbing district) Northbridge and leave the residents of the city alone.”
The festival is still looking to replace rapper Action Bronson after the headline act withdrew from the festival late last month.
“We regret to inform you that due to “recording commitments” Action Bronson has cancelled his upcoming Australian tour. We are currently working hard on securing a replacement,” Origin said at the time.
Photo: Facebook.
