Big Melba weekend

By Kath Gannaway
THE MELBA Festival in September will provide a three-day, eclectic feast of music, food and wine.
More than 30 events will be staged over the weekend of 11, 12 and 13 September.
The festival’s move from a summer to a spring event is designed to bring visitors to the Yarra Valley at what is traditionally a quieter time.
The festival program, officially launched by Yarra Valley and The Dandenongs Marketing earlier this month, under the directorship of Matthew Field, caters for a wide range of music tastes in some of the Yarra Valley’s premier venues.
The program this year also includes events in Marysville, Toolangi, Mt Dandenong and Alexandra.
Performers range from Australia’s best new talents to the music world’s most seasoned performers – among them Suzanne Johnston, The Kelly Gang Australian Boys Choir, Jonathan Dreyfus, Beth Williams, Steve Sedergreen, Silvie Paladino, Allanah Guthrie-Jones, Wilbur Wilde and Jerome Smith.
The music events are accompanied by award-winning wines and stunning regional cuisine.
Announcing a State Government grant of $13,500 at the launch of the festival, Seymour MP Ben Hardman applauded the festival, saying it was a celebration that showcased young, talented performers at some of the Yarra Valley’s most beautiful wineries, museums and function centres.
“Now in its fourth year, the annual Melba Festival is a major highlight on the event calender for the valley,” he said.
He said the event would provide a much-needed economic boost to local businesses, restaurants and accommodation providers.
Yarra Valley and The Dandenongs Marketing chief executive officer Jennifer Hutchison said the event formed part of the organisation’s substantial activities to support local businesses by encouraging visitors to the region.
The Melba Festival program is available on-line at www.melbafestival.com.au, and at tourist information centres and other tourist outlets around the region.
Bookings can be made on-line or by phoning 1300 765 584.