Gold sounds ready to rock

BENDIGO’S chock-full calendar of top-quality events welcomes a classy new entrant on the first Saturday in April, as five independent local acts and a ring in launch the first ever Gold Rock Festival.

The line-up features Bendigo’s Mia Mazzarella, Mystic Park, Loui Froia Band, The Bridesmaid, Derwents and Alarms, as well as Melbourne-based power trio Stepmother.

Founder and organiser Shann Lions from Mystic Park said that for him, the festival is all about “showcasing the different styles of music Bendigo has to offer”.

“We are putting on a day out for the music fans of this town to come and listen to bands that they may become new fans of, and share in their journey,” he said.

“The festival is a rock festival with a huge local focus. Bendigo Vinyl are DJing in between bands and the PA is operated by locals.

“Pretty much it’s a local event with local independent businesses on board. We have to grow this diverse musical talent in our town, so that’s why it’s also all local acts minus the headliner.

“I handpicked the local acts based on who’s playing live, putting out music, working hard on their promotion (and) getting punters to shows, plus they must have a vibe that works in with the festival.”

Well-known raconteur Sam Bastian has been recruited as MC for the occasion, and in a real coup for the new event, fan favourite Cornella Brewery near Toolleen have brewed up a one-off Gold Rock Hazy beer.

The inaugural Gold Rock Festival blasts off at 3pm, Saturday, 1 April at Handle Bar in Mitchell Street.

Further information and updates visit bit.ly/4048l8d.