Musical magic in Creswick streets

CRESWICK’S live music and dance festival went off without a hitch last weekend as CresFest 2023 organisers saw their year of hard work and preparation come to life over three days.

The streets were filled with music, with everything from international performers to children’s choirs.

“The atmosphere in town was fantastic,” said convenor Judy Turner.

“I think the surprising thing about any event like this is that you visualise it and then when it happens all sorts of different pictures emerge because the people who come along make it their festival.

“I love the way people march into town with their instruments and gigs lined up and they’re full of enthusiasm and that creates a kind of collective energy.

Maeve Ashby, head of marketing at the festival, said there was a great vibe around town despite the odd rain shower.

“When you entered every venue or cafe, it was cosy, warm, pumping with music, very much the opposite of the last few years with COVID,” she said.

“This year is the first year we’ve had international guests and that was very exciting to bring these people who are at the height of their talents from all over the world and to welcome them into Creswick.

“I’ve spoken to a couple of the local traders, and they’ve said it was great last year but this year everything has pumped up a notch which is really exciting.”

Ms Ashby said the volunteers were key to the festival’s success.

“It’s good to remember this is only our second year and this year our program was double the size as well as the amount of tickets and people so it was very ambitious and I’m so pleased everyone was having such a good time,” she said.

“We’ve worked really hard to make sure our volunteers feel looked after because they are the backbone of the festival.

“We also had a lot of people hosting musicians and artists in their homes and giving accommodation.”

Ms Ashby said the CresFest organising committee is looking forward to making this an annual tradition for the town.

“We hope for this to be an annual event and Hepburn Shire council have been super supportive as well as the State Government,” she said.