Twilight music and lantern magic

TEESDALE’S free all-ages community music festival and twilight lantern parade, Live@Turtle Bend, is returning this weekend, and everyone’s invited.

The music stage is set to be headlined by indie acts Dainis Lacey and Cool Sounds, with support from indie-pop performer Nat Vazer, and other local young artists.

Now a local tradition considered to be Teesdale’s night-of-nights, the fest is expected to bring together 130 children and their families as part of the hand-made lantern parade.

At dusk, participants will parade down the main street, with their lanterns in the shape of brolgas, parrots, giant turtles and beyond.

“This is an exciting opportunity for the community to come together,” said co-organiser Claire Whiteley of the Teesdale Turtle Bend Committee.

“It is especially important this year after the pandemic and the recent heavy rains that have affected the region.

“The children at Teesdale Primary School have created beautiful lanterns and it’s magical to see them at twilight as they wind their way to the turtle pavilion.”

Also on the musical bill are indie band Seal Prince and the Roof Rats from Norlane. Food and drinks will be on offer and fires will be roaring to create a cozy festival vibe.

Live@Turtle Bend will run from 5pm to 10pm on Saturday, 12 November, at Turtle Bend Pavilion, Main Road, Teesdale.

Live@Turtle Bend is organised by the community for the community, supported by Golden Plains Shire, FreeZA, Music Workshop, Teesdale Primary School, Oxygen College, the Inverleigh Lions Club, local businesses and community groups. Visit turtlebendevents.com.