Apollo Bay goes wild for winter festival

APOLLO Bay’s dark arts WinterWild Festival made a triumphant return to the seaside haven last weekend.

Thousands of people flocked to the Apollo Bay Foreshore and its surrounding eateries and arts venues for three days of live music, art performances, masterclasses and culinary creations.

Festivities kicked off on Friday night with a welcome to Gadabanud Country by Eastern Marr Aboriginal Corporation, followed by captivating performances from rapper RidzyRay, Jen Cloher, Sid O’Neil, viral comedy champion Nat’s What I Reckon and 80’s rockers Inked Factor.

Saturday featured a feast that included mulled wine, local craft beers, fresh seafood and pans of paella, as well as an outdoor performance titled The Dogwatch, which incorporated fire, pyrotechnics, movement and song to truly embrace the power of winter in the Otways.

A dawn tour of the birds, both living and extinct closed out the festival on Sunday morning alongside a Meet the Maker coffee roasting masterclass and a live music performance from acclaimed concert pianist Estelle Shircore Barket.

WinterWild festival director, Bill Hurley Fraser said the event far exceeded expectations.

“This year’s festival had the best reception of any event I’ve worked on – the buzz around town was fantastic.

“I think this was down to the diversity of the program, and the staff, volunteers and community all working together to make it happen.”

For photos and updates on the 2024 WinterWild Festival, head to winterwild.com.au