Port mussel festival celebrates over 10 years

A CELEBRATION, thank you and recognition night all rolled into one during a Portarlington Mussel Festival dinner last week.

The “Over 10 Year Celebration Dinner” was held at Portarlington Golf Club last Thursday, with many of the key people present from the original committee through to today.

Festival president Richard Underwood said having a vibrant committee was essential to the longevity of the festival – each knew their role and confidently executed there accountabilities.

“And no community event happens without sponsors,” Mr Underwood said.

“The Portarlington/Drysdale Community Bank has been on board for at least 10 years, Coastyle Homes for many as well, along with Bellarine Bayside who has been on board from day one.

“The festival would also not happen without relationships, many have been developed over the years, including Brad from Atmosphere and Deniel from Music Workshop to name just a couple.

“Many contribute to the success of the festival, in no particular order, Rie, the cooking demonstrations have been growing each year, Lyn Ingles, the inventor of our brand (logo) and almost every publication since, and John Rae, our unflappable MC for the last 10 years.

“Rotary and the Port/Drysdale Lions also had initial faith in the festival from the loans they gave us.”

He said community donations of more than $200,000 was a wonderful achievement for the festival.