Festival of Glass draws big crowd

MORE than 400 people headed out to the Bellarine last weekend for the 14th instalment of the Festival of Glass Expo.

Featuring 19 exhibitors, the August 25 event was hosted by the Drysdale Community hub with a wide range of glass artworks on display.

Festival of Glass Inc. president Mercedes Drummond said the 2024 event was a great success, with local artist and those from around the state participating.

“It was a pleasure to watch patrons not only enjoying the exhibitors’ glass art in the three areas inside the Community Hub but also the glass art installations in the back garden area.”

Artworks on display used both hot and cold techniques and included a variety of pieces from mosaics and stained glass through to jewellery.

Along with exhibitor displays demonstrations ran throughout the day, which Ms Drummond said resulted in people signing up for their
various groups.

As part of the demonstrations, committee member and glass artist Glenda MacNaughton melted a piece of glass using a candle flame.

Throughout the day, visitors were also able to participate in a treasure hunt, poetry, storytelling, puzzles and more.

Ms Drummond said it was important to acknowledge the support the committee has received over the past 14 years.

“The Festival of Glass Committee and its members are very appreciative of the commitment by exhibitors and the thought and time that they take when setting up their individual sites.

“Without the support of sponsors, community groups, organisations and volunteers, this annual event would not be able to be run at such a low entry fee.”