Creatures of the deep bring crowds ashore

FIRE sculptures, fireworks and a floating party on the bay drew thousands to Queenscliff over the weekend for Nightide’s most ambitious festival yet.

More than 5,000 people attended the three-day festival, embracing this year’s Creatures of the Deep theme across a packed program of performances, food and family entertainment.

The festivities began on Friday night with a floating party aboard the historic MV Peninsula Princess ferry, which was transformed with burlesque performances, DJs and roving entertainers.

Saturday opened with a solstice feast hosted by TARRA’s Mike Jaques and Wildfire Craft BBQ’s Casey Hildebrand before crowds gathered at the Queenscliff Ferry Terminal foreshore for an evening of fire, food and live entertainment.

A highlight of the night was a giant wood-sculpted creature of the deep set alight on the beach, followed by fireworks launched from the ferry over the bay.

Mojo Corner, The Kite Machine and Jungle Jim Smith headlined the music program, while Hello Sauna brought warmth by the sea and the Gypsy Wagon offered tarot readings throughout the night.

The festival concluded on Sunday with a free family day on the foreshore featuring Krazy Koala’s Bebop Circus, Marianna the Mermaid, face painting, a bubble artist, amusement rides, a Disney singalong show and handball with Geelong Cats defender Sam De Koning.

Searoad Ferries chief executive Matt McDonald said organisers were thrilled with the response.

“We love this part of the world, and sharing an experience like this with the community is exactly why we do what we do,” he said.

“It was incredible to work with so many local vendors and suppliers to bring it together.”