Over 3000 visitors are expected to walk through the gates of Rosalind Park on Saturday night for the immersive light experience Awaken - Bendigo brought to light.
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City of Greater Bendigo tourism and major events manager Terry Karamaloudis said the event was two years in the making after the coronavirus pandemic halted preparations.
"It's been a long journey but I'm really looking forward to this Saturday night when we welcome visitors to see this amazing laser and sound show," he said. "It's going to be spectacular for our city and region.
"It's all about the use of techniques that appeal to the sensors. The Bendigo Creek actually turns into the River of Gold and quite honestly you could stand there all night looking at how spectacular it is.
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"We're hoping this event can be a morale boost for our city and our region. Covid's been very difficult now for the best part of two years and we're also hoping that an event like this will attract people into the city centre, add vibrancy, help people get out and support our hospitality sector."
Mr Karamaloudis said the latest Tourism Research Australia data indicates an overnight visitor contributes $262 to the Bendigo economy and a day trip contributes just short of $200 per person.
"Over 21 nights we're expecting upwards of 20,000 people," he said. "That's a pretty positive impact on our economy."
The current state government coronavirus restrictions allow up to 5000 people to experience Awaken at a time with COVIDSafe measure of fences, QR Code check-in points and ticketing for the free event needed for compliance.
"Not that long ago we were at a point where no events were allowed," Mr Karamaloudis said "But the restrictions have evolved, it changes frequently.
"Twenty four hours ago we were heading for a cap of 1000 people and overnight that's become 5000.
"That's a good thing but equally at any point we must be aware that there could be a change."
Sydney-based company Laservision were tasked with bringing Awaken to life through lasers, lights, smoke machines and a light sculpture among the show's attractions.
Senior business development manager Michael Hanlon said the experience took a week to set up and months of artistic work was prepared off-site.
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"Rosalind Park is a gorgeous precinct and a jewel in the crown of Bendigo, certainly for us who aren't from here," he said.
"We think it's a spectacular community asset and what we've done is transformed that and taken it to another level for a genuinely unique night time experience.
"For those who are familiar with the park will see it transformed into something special.
"Don't miss it; whether you're a visitor or a local, you'll see things in a different light."
Mr Hanlon said the experience will take visitors anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour-and-a-half to walk through.
Attendees will be required to check-in via the Victorian Government's QR code app, with QR codes to be displayed around the park.
Throughout the event, Rosalind Park will be fenced from 5pm every night with normal access during the day.
Tickets are available via bendigoregion.com.au/explore-bendigo/whatson/awaken-bendigo-brought-to-light.
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