Australia’s biggest country pride festival is rolling back into town over this Labour Day long weekend.
Marcia Hines will headline the ChillOut opening night spectacular. (Photo supplied)
National treasure Marcia Hines will deliver a huge set of disco mega hits tonight (Friday March 7th) under the ChillOut Big Top at Victoria Park.
She will be supported by a host of stunning talent, including Emily-Jane Conidi performing the most famous of circus songs that made all the judges turn their seats on The Voice Australia: ‘This is Me’.
Crowd favourite and Drag Race Crown winner Spankie Jackzon returns to delight and ignite punters before Cath Jamison conjures up world class illusions with the help of breathtaking aerialists. DJ Rosie Rai will round out a night to remember.
Marcia said she is thrilled to visit ChillOut Festival for the first time. “My favourite performances have always been for the LGBTQIA+ community! I am taking leave from filming Australian Idol especially to travel to Daylesford for my first appearance at the ChillOut Festival. I am so excited to visit such a beautiful part of Victoria but mostly to perform for my most treasured audience! I can’t wait for ChillOut!
Marcia will finish her 50th Anniversary Tour just in time to perform at the longest-running regional LGBTQIA+ pride festival in Australia and they’re both getting more fabulous every year.
Of course, this is not the only event on the ChillOut Festival calendar. All the festival favourites are back, including Bush Dance, Pool Party, Carnival Day, Street Parade, POOF DOOF After Party and a host of other events will roll into venues across Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
There will also be social sports, comedy, art, and family friendly fun including the All Ages Youth Muster and Drag Storytime In The Park.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the Victorian Government was proud to back this standout moment on the queer calendar. “As well as live music, theatre, drag and community events, this vibrant festival showcases all that makes Daylesford and Hepburn Ranges such a great place to visit. Whether you’re an artist, an ally, or just here for the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.”
Hepburn Shire Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said the Festival is a testament to the vibrant and diverse community that it represents and is a welcoming space for all to enjoy. “We are proud to once again be a major sponsor of this important event that attracts visitors from all over Victoria and beyond. It is an opportunity to celebrate our rich and diverse LGBTQIA+ culture in a safe and inclusive way,” said Cr Henderson. “Our Works team has been preparing our towns for the thousands of visitors we are expecting to see to ensure they are in tiptop shape. Our planter boxes have been spruced and even our begonias are blooming at Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens for all to see and enjoy.”
The iconic ChillOut Street Parade will once again play host to floats from local businesses, schools, organisations, supporters, sponsors and of course, Council.
The festival showcases a range of LGBTQIA+ artists and performers, both ticketed and free. For full program details, visit chilloutfestival.au
