Sawtell shines brighter as new festoon lights transform First Avenue

SAWTELL’S iconic First Avenue precinct is looking a little brighter, with new festoon lighting now stretching across the village CBD.

The lighting upgrade has been welcomed by local businesses and community members, with the new lights replacing older bulbs and extending coverage throughout the main shopping and dining areas.

For locals, the change is more than just cosmetic.

The improved lighting is expected to add atmosphere to First Avenue after dark, helping create a more inviting environment for people enjoying an evening meal, meeting friends or supporting local businesses.

The project was led by the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, which received $14,333 through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program to deliver the initiative.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the lighting was already making a noticeable difference to the village’s evening atmosphere.

He also pointed to the potential for the improved streetscape to support Sawtell’s growing night-time economy.

Sawtell has built a strong reputation as a destination for both locals and visitors, with popular events including the Sawtell Chilli Festival and Sawtell Super Fun Day helping bring people into the village throughout the year.

The Chamber hopes the upgraded precinct will complement future events and activities designed to encourage people to stay longer and enjoy Sawtell after dark.

For local traders, that could mean more people wandering through the village in the evenings and additional opportunities to showcase what Sawtell has to offer.

The project is another example of the community and local businesses working together to improve one of the area’s best-known destinations.

With the lights now switched on, First Avenue has another reason to keep the village buzzing after sunset.