How quickly time flies! It’s hard to believe it, but the Peninsula’s much-loved Between the Bays will celebrate its 10th Anniversary on February 28. The festival, which takes place at the picturesque Penbank in Moorooduc, has earned a reputation for great music, food, drinks and family activities since its inception in 2005.
Whilst there are plenty of festivals to choose from in the Australian summer, the folks at Between the Bays have always managed to find a point of difference, consistently putting together line-ups that traverse the Aussie music landscape – from established rock and roll royalty through to credible career artists and young up-and-comers.
This year is no exception, with local favourites and genuine Oz-rock legends Mark Seymour and James Reyne headlining the all-day event. Reyne will perform the songs made famous with his band Australian Crawl, whilst Seymour will mix Hunters and Collectors hits with more recent cuts from his highly successful solo career.
Also on the bill this year are cult-heroes Custard, veteran Latin collective Combo la Revelacion, The Billabong Boys, Indigenous Hip Hop Projects and Sweet Jean.
This year will also mark the first chance Peninsula music fans have had to see Melbourne’s own Wagons at a local festival – and it seems like it will be the ideal introduction to the twisted country world of Henry Wagons and his troupe of musical outlaws and vagabonds.
Of course, keen punters may have caught Henry’s BBQ show on network television, or even been swept up before by a sweaty club performance at regular haunts The Corner Hotel, Northcote Social Club or caravan Club in Oakleigh. But to the uninitiated – prepare to be entertained. Henry and co put on a live show like no other in the current Aussie music scene – mixing the drama and flamboyance of 70s outlaw country with a frenetic stage presence that is equal parts Nick Cave, Johnny Cash and Iggy Pop.
But of course, it’s not just about the music. As the sun sets over the picturesque venue, you can sample a broad range of culinary options – from a simple sausage sizzle through to delights such as wood fired pizzas and gourmet festival food stands. Vegetarian options will be available, as well as great coffee and a range of kid-friendly treats. Those who would rather bring their own food are welcome to bring a picnic.
This year, festival-goers won’t be let down by range of beverages as Between the Bays have employed festival specialists to run the bar. Drinks will be available when the gates open and for those not drinking alcohol, there is a free water station for topping up your own water bottle.
All proceeds raised by Between the Bays go to Penbank School’s partnership with the Wugularr School, Beswick (in a remote part of the Northern Territory), helping the Wugularr children to reach their full potential. There will be parking on-site on the day of the festival (gold coin donation), as well as a shuttle bus to and from the festival site from two designated public transport connections.
Visit www.betweenthebays.com to purchase your tickets now!
By LACHLAN BRYAN
