Jo-anne Houssenloge posted her frustration on social media, saying she was not alone in wanting to support the monthly local open air event but was put off by other patrons who were smoking.

Ms Houssenloge said that cigarette smoke at the event was a “very real deterrent” for asthmatics, families with young children, non-smokers or people who just hated the smell.

"Although this is an outdoor event it seems that there is no regulation of a designated smoke area," she said.

Jingera Rock Music is a long-running, free, open mic event which is open to all musicians, comedians, poets and other performers.

It was held for more than 20 years at the Robbie Burns Hotel, but when the hotel was sold and reopened as privately run boutique accommodation, Jingera Rock Music re-grouped as an open-air event at the Wyndham Cricket Ground where it has operated for about five months.

Event organisers Heath and Hanna Marshall quickly embraced the feedback from the community, announcing that a new designated smoking area – away from the main seated area but with a view of the stage – would be in place at all future events.

"We hope this move will encourage more people, including more young families, to attend,” Ms Marshall said.

”We can't make it smoke-free but we will have a (designated) area.” 

Ms Houssenloge - who describes herself as a “reformed smoker” - even won the support of some smokers with her post.

"I am a smoker and I support you," Cassandra Moulen said. "Just make a spot for the smokers away from the main seating area with an old tin bucket for the butts."

"It is normal practice these days not to smoke in restaurants and to respect non-smokers," she said.

Jingera Rock Music attracts 50-60 people – more in warmer months – from all over the Bega Valley and Monaro, and tourists.

It is held on the fourth Sunday of the month following the Wyndham Village Market. The next event is on Sunday, August 27.