Aroma traditionally draws over 12,000 coffee and chocolate lovers to Central Maitland with chocolatiers, baristas and coffee roasters coming from not only Maitland and the Hunter region but a large number also from the Greater Sydney area.

The current NSW Government public health restrictions have significantly impacted the ability to deliver Aroma and the mobility of stallholders and suppliers who reside in those areas affected by the health restrictions.

Council is working towards the development of an alternate program of initiatives that the local community can enjoy in the month of August.

This program will aim to provide opportunities for the local chocolatiers, baristas, stallholders, and entertainers who will miss out on the ability to trade and perform at Aroma, subject to Public Health Orders allowing this to occur.

Coordinator City Events & Activation Adam Franks said: "We're really disappointed that we won't be able to host Aroma again this year, and I'm feeling for the local traders, suppliers, artists and small businesses who benefit from the activity Aroma brings to Central Maitland.

"I hope the initiatives we'll be introducing in August will encourage the people of Maitland to support our local cafés and patisseries and discover the delicious and sweet produce that is made right here in Maitland," Mr Franks said.

More details regarding the new initiatives will be announced in the coming weeks on the My Maitland and The Levee social channels and websites.

Council will monitor and adhere to the advice from the Federal and State governments, including any variation or modification of the public health orders.

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