Community, music and markets: Nightjar Festival delivers on all fronts

TORQUAY’s favourite summer event, the Nightjar Festival, concluded its 2024 run last week, following its triumphant return to the town.

Set across four nights, festival goers were treated to a roster of unforgettable live music performances, international food, bustling market stalls and a wide variety of entertainment and activities.

The Nightjar Festival’s return marked the end of a four-year hiatus and the beginning of a new chapter for the event.

Re-launching this year with a new format, the festival introduced new activities, impressive new infrastructure and a renewed vision that placed live music firmly at its centre.

Festival founder Lyndelle Flintoft said the event’s organisers had received positive feedback from those who attended the festival and were looking forward to returning next year.

“Our team are exhausted but so happy with our first year back,” she said.

“There was a tiny house, community discussions on men’s mental health, market stalls, food stalls and so many free kids’ activities.”

The Big Top played host to an all-star musical line-up that included emerging local talents and established, award-winning acts.

First Nations storyteller Yirrmal and the legendary Shane Howard ended the festival’s first night with an epic rendition of ‘Solid Rock’.

Harry James Angus of The Cat Empire fame, Ash Grunwald, the esteemed Fanny Lumsden and the Murlocs each hit the stage, thrilling crowds with their energetic performances.

And fan favourite, Vasco Era, closed out the festival on the Nightjar’s final evening.

As part of this year’s festival, Torquay also experienced its first big design event.

Taking place between Nightjar Festival nights, the Design Exchange Market brought together some of Australia’s inspiring independent designers, artists and creators.

Stalls showcased a carefully curated and diverse range of unique products, from handcrafted jewellery to artisan wares.

“Each night was really beautiful and [it was] so inspiring to see our community connect again,” Flintoft said.

“After some well-earned sleep we are excited to start planning next year.”