Big weekend up the creek

By Kath Gannaway
Like its hugely successful predecessor, the Hoddles Creek Draught Horse Festival, which ran for 14 years, this new community event is organised by local people to support the Hoddles Creek Rural Fire Brigade and emergency services.
Miss Rhonda Burchmore: Up Close and Personal is the headline act for the Friday evening Supporter’s Dinner and some tickets are still available.
Over the Saturday and Sunday, the line-up includes some of Australia’s best-known performers and local talent.
Deborah Conway, Renee Geyer, Ross Wilson, Bomba, Ross Hannaford, Sophie Koh, Steven Cummings, Brian Cadd, Kerri Simpson, Josh Owen Band, The Mystaken, Jaimi Faulkner Band, Kutcha Edwards and others will perform on two stages.
Workshops run by students from the Little Yarra Steiner School will be held over the two days and the Kidzone will provide lots of fun for the youngsters.
A baby animal nursery, performers from Sooper Dooper Circus, a jumping castle and much more has been organised to keep the kids entertained.
Boutique wine bars will be operating in the big marquee, where local vineyards will be selling their award-winning wines. Beer and other mixed drinks will also be available. No BYO alcohol or dogs.
A wide variety of market stalls and food vendors will also be operating.
The specially designated, free, family friendly, camping area has been located away from the noise of the festival.
The festival site is in Eacott’s Road (off Lusatia Park Road), Hoddles Creek – just follow the signs!
For ticketing and other information, phone 5966 5160 or visit www.hoddlescreekmusicfestival.com.