Rising appeal leads to ‘makeover’ for festival

KIM WATERS
Barwon Heads Festival of the Sea has undergone a makeover this year to cater for “ever-increasing” crowds, according to organisers.
A spokesperson said the popular event, in its 11th year, would kick off this weekend with a new “pot-luck” dinner to showcase local produce.
“Anyone wanting to join the dinner is asked to bring a picnic rug, a basket, drinks and a dish to share,” the spokesperson said.
“The dish needs to be made using one or more ingredients grown or produced locally.
“It’s a really good chance to showcase the region’s great produce.”
Event organiser Bernard Napthine expected this year’s festival to be “bigger and better” with a record crowd.
“We’ve got a lot more local bands this year for our live music section and there’ll also be two stages running simultaneously with different acts,” he said.
“The beach stage will feature Rory Ellis and Tim Hacket performing Australian blues interwoven with colourful stories and the popular band Go Set will close out the day’s music performance. The acoustic stage offers an afternoon of easy-listening with Col and Nick, Lachlan Duthie and Jessey Jackson.”
Mr Napthine said the organising committee had gone “all out” to make sure this year’s festival the best yet.
“We’ve expanded the kids’ section this year and there are some new, interesting food stalls as well.
“The big day of the festival is Sunday, which is packed full of activities. There’s also the annual duck race in which (plastic) ducks are dropped from Ozone Jetty at 3pm and the owner of the duck that arrives first wins a $2500 travel voucher.”