mmg.com.au

The second stage of development at the Deniliquin Ute Muster site has begun.

The installation of underground power to trade sites and lighting towers started in December.

It will be complete by the start of March, according to Deniliquin Ute Muster and Play on the Plains Festival general manager John Harvie.

Mr Harvie said the new electrical installation will mean the site has more permanent lighting.

He also said ticket holders and trade sites will no longer need to supply their own generators.

‘‘The lights are 2000 watts. There’s four (lights) on each tower, and there’s 10 towers,’’ he said.

It’s a permanent means of electricity, he explained.

And it’s for the whole town, not just the music festival.

‘‘The permanent power means the site can be used for a multitude of events.’’

Permanent shower and toilet blocks are also in the middle of construction, and will be completed before the Blues & Roots Festival at Easter.

And they’re not the only upgrades that have been made at the Conargo Rd site.

Last year the new international standard stage was constructed, which is 13m high, 50m long and 16m deep.

Also last year, the size of the sports arena doubled, and a new arena was built for the tractor pull.

The upgrades are being funded by a $500,000 grant from Regional Development Australia, and $411,000 of the Ute Muster’s own money.