Festival fun returns to Deans Marsh

THE annual Deans Marsh Festival is gearing up to return to the Surf Coast next weekend for its 27th instalment.

To be held on March 30, the festival will include entertainment for the whole family with old and new activities taking place throughout the day.

More than 50 markets stalls will be on display, while live music keeps the atmosphere alive, and local food, wineries and distilleries join in the celebration.

Classic events including the Dog jump, Gumboot toss, Deans Marsh Gift, bird calling competition and Sheaf Toss will also return to the festival.

New this year is a roaming and static wildlife display from Black Snake Productions where attendees can interact with reptiles and native animals.

Deans Marsh Community Cottage co-ordinator Caroline Shelbourne said over the festivals 27-year span, it has become strongly loved by the community.

“It’s a really community focussed day, it’s a way that the school, cricket club, the cottage and CFA all come together to share in a special day for the community and for anyone visiting,” she said.

 

The popular event was originally a Gymkahna, merging into a pioneer festival before becoming the celebration it is today, while also raising funds for local community groups.

Ms Shelbourne said that for the Surf Coast region, the festival was the most country fete-style day organised on a bigger scale.

“It’s got a real country feel to it and it’s very easy going, we get 1,500 people throughout the day which adds a great atmosphere, but it’s not congested.

“There’s quite a few free things to do so that makes it really accessible for people, and the music’s always great.”

A gold coin donation on arrival will be donated to the Deans Marsh CFA and cottage.

The festival will run from 10am until 3pm at the Deans Marsh Memorial Reserve.

For more information, head to deansmarshcottage.org.au