Three mosaics pieces by students from Queanbeyan High School have already been installed in the central area, as have shapes of little native birds laser-cut in steel by local sculpture Neil Dickinson, installed on top of the parking signs.

Dickinson has also created steel wraparounds for the garbage bins featuring laser cut-outs in the shape of  native flowers.

The whole place will be hopping this Saturday (June 30) with live entertainment, stalls and children’s activities as the new area is officially opened by Queanbeyan Mayor councillor Tim Overall, who describes the  development of the precinct as “the most significant project in the Queanbeyan CBD for some time”.

The launch will run from noon until 3pm, with the official opening and unveiling of a plaque at 1pm.

During the afternoon, there will be a busking competition, market stalls, free children’s activities, Milo the Clown, face-painting, balloon modelling, show bags, tastings and displays, including Aboriginal dot painting and didgeridoo performances.

A come-on for the day will be a prize draw following the official opening. Tickets will be placed in the promotional show bags available from noon and prizes have been supplied by Crawford Street traders, who seemed last night to be heaving a collective sigh of relive that the renovations and changes are finished and businesses can get moving again.

Live music will be a feature with Dixie jazz band Moochers Inc. playing near the alfresco dining area at the newly furbished Royal Hotel. At the other end of the precinct, vocal jazz duo, Soiree will entertain patrons at Ciao Café and Cakes.

Crawford Stree twill remain open to traffic with car parking available on the street and also in the public car parks off Morisset, Rutledge and Lowe Streets.