Mussel festival volunteers ready for action

PORTARLINGTON Mussel Festival’s dedicated team of volunteers will be out in force this weekend when an expected 30,000 visitors descend on the seaside town.

More than 200 volunteers, some from local organisations or who join in for the fun of it, will work tirelessly to make sure a great time is had by all on Saturday January 13.

Volunteer of about six years, John Alexopoulous, said the mussel festival was such a unique event by international standards.

“I just love how the mussels relate to the environment of the Bellarine and Portarlington and how people come from all over to taste them – nothing beats that mussel flavour,” Mr Alexopoulous said.

“Every year it seems to get bigger and better, and the organisers do such a great job making sure there is a variety of food and entertainment to cater for everyone from kids to seniors, and it’s an event where everyone can get involved.”

Mr Alexopoulous, who each year helps set up the tents, fencing, stalls and signage, said volunteering at the festival was a great way to meet new people and make friends.

The festival is mixing things up this year with all new acts, entertainment and food to keep everyone happy.

There will be music on four stages all day, with headliners The Eagles Story, plus popular artists Matt Orchard, Chrissy, Sassy Soul Sister, and Jazz Connection Trio.

Also, there will be more than 100 food and market stalls offering local foods and produce, and wines and beers.

Kids will love the clowns, jumping castle and face painting, and there will be cooking demonstrations showing visitors how to prepare delicious mussel dishes.

Last year, more than 10 tonnes of mussels were sold on the day and all mussel sellers were kept extremely busy.

The festival continues to be family-friendly and community orientated, with profits going to support a number of worthy local organisations.

The mussel festival, which runs from 8.30am to 5pm, costs just $2 per person (kids free), and there is free parking and shuttle bus.

For more information visit portmusselfestival.com.