What was supposed to be a two week ice skating extravaganza on the southern highlands has come to a premature end.

The ice skating at Fountaindale Grand Manor at Robertson   was  to be one of the highlights of the Christmas in July celebrations but has been interrupted by a series of mechanical break downs.

After the ice turned to mush yesterday, it was decided to call off the remainder of what was planned to be a two week season.

However the remainder of the Christmas in July activities at Fountaindale Grand Manor will continue.

Shoalhaven Council will be hoping for better luck early in the new year, it is planning a month of skating in January at the Entertainment Centre in Nowra.