Seaside celebrity power

Hooked on Portland attracts big names to foreshore

Eventgoers can be prepared to sing along to the classic tunes of ‘Chained to the Wheel’ and ‘Hold on to Me’, with The Black Sorrows set to perform as part of month.

Australian blues rock band The Black Sorrows, and television chef Courtney Roulston will headline the festival’s entertainment offerings, which will take place on January 28 and 29 along the Portland Foreshore.

The popular festival will also feature a two day long fishing competition, fishing education workshops, Skate Park Leagues Australia competition, food trucks, markets and more as part of its schedule of free family friendly entertainment.

“The Black Sorrows have won the ARIA for Best Band, played sold-out shows across Europe and sold more than two million albums worldwide – they are a huge drawcard for our festival,” said Glenelg Shire Mayor Cr Scott Martin.

“The Black Sorrows are best recognised by Joe Camilleri, the frontman and brains behind the band. As a singer, songwriter, saxophonist and producer, Joe is considered one of the most genuinely talented figures in Australian music.

“Songs such as Hold On To Me, Harley and Rose, Chained To The Wheel , Never Let Me Go and the Chosen Ones became radio staples – we can’t wait to hear these classic Australian tunes played live at our Foreshore for all to enjoy.

“The Black Sorrows will also be supported by local band The Southbound Three, who will be launching their new album following Hooked on Portland.” Alongside the music, Portland’s seafood would also be celebrated with a visit from celebrity chef Courtney Roulston.

“For the food side of the festival, we are thrilled to welcome popular chef Courtney Roulston to Portland,” he said.

“Courtney’s success in the kitchen first started as a much-loved contestant on Series 2 of Masterchef in 2010. “Since then, she has continued to share her passion for cooking.”

Courtney appears as a regular on cooking show Farm to Fork on Channel 10.

“Courtney’s humble family friendly recipes have also earned her plenty of engagement on her social media channels, so we look forward to welcoming her to Hooked on Portland and learning the secrets to some of her viral salads,” Mayor Martin said.

“There is something on offer for everyone and we can’t wait to welcome back crowds to the Glenelg Shire for this iconic event.”

Hooked on Portland was first launched in 2018 and is coordinated by the Glenelg Shire Council in partnership with the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA). The event aims to promote Portland as a regional destination of choice and highlight its many fishing, food and tourism offerings.

To keep up to date with all festival details follow the Hooked on Portland Facebook page.

• Event details: Hooked on Portland January 28 – 29 Portland Foreshore, Portland