30 years rolling: The Blues Train celebrates milestone year

A LOCAL entertainment favourite is celebrating 30 years on the Bellarine Peninsula with an array of special shows in March to mark the milestone.

The Blues Train has cause for celebration, marking three decades in Queenscliff since its inaugural shows in 1994.

Co-founder and proprietor Hugo T. Armstrong said the concept arose from humble beginnings and none of the original founders imagined it would still be going 30 years later.

“After 30 years and hundreds of shows, The Blues Train has showcased some the best of blues and roots music to over 250,000 people, many of whom were not familiar with the genre of music prior to our shows.

“But as soon as they get there and hear the music, everybody realises how familiar blues and roots music actually is to their ears.

“The music, the food, the drinks and of course the hero product of the incredible steam train, in addition to the location of Queenscliff and the Bellarine Peninsula, it is just the perfect combination.”

The Blues Train has announced three new shows to the public to celebrate its 30th birthday, with special performances scheduled for March 2, March 16, and March 23.

Mr Armstrong said The Blues Train’s key stakeholders were grateful to have met hundreds of talented musicians, creating an unforgettable experience for patrons at every show.

“We’ve been lucky to have some of the best Blues musicians to ever exist in Australia perform on the shows.

“But I’ve also taken it really seriously that one of our main pillars at The Blues Train has always been to provide opportunity for emerging artists to get a foot in the door and obtain regular employment.

“The Blues Train has always been a great springboard for musicians who want to get on the festival market or getting into local venues all around Australia and overseas because as so, many musicians have told me, the nature of The Blues Train means that you’ve really got a have a great set of music that can win everybody over.”

Mr Armstrong is urging the community to book in advance for the coming March shows with more than 200 people expected to attend each night. To book, click HERE