DATECLAIMERS Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest from page 5 Pictured above, the new all-seasons mega-top covers everyone! Generally Queensland's spring weather turns on beautiful sunny blue skies by day and sparkling stars in the clear black nights that shine much brighter away from city lights and pollution. Waking up to each day is so peaceful with abundant wildlife scampering about and birds singing their good morning songs. Patrons are free to bring their own food and drinks and join friends for a singalong around a crackling campfire (when permitted by the fire service) – which all creates a relaxed feel that takes many back to childhood memories whilst catching up with old friends and making new ones as easily as at a family barbecue. The ability to share the experience with like-minded people who love music and camping has often been cited as a key reason why people come to the festival and many groups form and make it an annual pilgrimage – from all states and territories. Patrons who choose to forget about cooking can dine on the fresh, locally grown produce and delicious meals from the street stalls especially selected to cater to mainstream tastes and all manner of dietary needs, including organic meats, fruit and vegetables, gluten and dairy free, vegan and vegetarian fare. A spacious beer garden with fully stocked bar is also available with a clear view of the stages. There is no evidence of over trodden ground here with plenty of room to move about freely without being jostled in a large faceless crowd. With a cap on ticket numbers limited to 3000 it's large enough to be exciting and small enough that people can still recognise each other and say “g’day” to someone they met earlier, or find a more secluded vantage point and still not miss a thing. The calibre of music is nothing short of incredible with over 150 highly talented rock and blues artists from Australia and overseas vying for a spot on the program! Musicians love playing at Mitchell Creek and it shows. Sound engineers pay careful attention to detail with high quality audio emanating from the two prime positioned stages that rotate seamlessly between performances. There’s no waiting around while the next artist sets up – patrons can settle back in a comfy spot enjoying continuous music and never miss a show! Lighting effects are equally impressive shooting out from the stages in a blaze of colour and excitement reaching into the crowd below. Everyone gets swept up in the surreal carnival vibe. The artists soak up the atmosphere like fuel as they deliver electric performances that interact so closely with the crowd. Many artists wander ‘round mingling and chatting with patrons or join in the nightly jams at the Zeppelin Bar. The music reaches out to patrons wherever they are, whether dancing in the mosh pit, wandering around the friendly food, art and clothing stalls dotted throughout the grounds, or even just chilling out in the campsite. Every part of the property delivers a prime vantage point and crystal clear sound to enjoy the festival. As intimate and moving as a house concert, yet as powerful and raunchy as a stadium event. All ages are welcome and there are organised children’s activities to give parents a break. A range of affordable ticket prices are available from single day and festival passes to VIP packages with extra bonuses to cater to a range of budgets and time constraints. Now in its eleventh year, coming along to this festival is like being let in on an exciting little secret that continues to grow bigger and better as word spreads through the bush telegraph and up and down the highways and skyways. The smiles and laughter in the photos and videos that are shared over and over on social media capture the memories and speak volumes about all the fun patrons are having, often commenting – “That was amazing! I can’t wait until next year to do it all again!” Word of mouth is by far the most effective publicity this boutique festival has attained. Don't miss it, book online now.
The Mary Valley Voice
24th Annual
Opening Friday Night 30 Sept from 6pm Open Sat/Sun 1-2 October 10am -4pm Monday 3 October 10am -1pm “Poets Alive” Saturday 1 Oct from 10am morning tea – Aussie poetry, music, song and fun!
Prize winning art works plus Singalong! singers and Hot Curri Jam Ukes perform. www.kenilwortharts.org.au THE MARY VALLEY VOICE ©2022
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