From humble beginnings in a suburban backyard five years ago, Backyard Fest will officially launch this weekend at Castlemaine’s unique art space – Lot 19.
Backyard Fest is the brainchild of mates Alex Kavenagh and Blake Van Leeuwen, who have spent almost three years planning the event, experiencing multiple setbacks and venue changes along the way.
Launching on the first day of Australian Music Week, Backyard Fest will present a diverse variety of music to tickle everyone’s taste buds: folk, punk/garage, indie rock, psychedelic rock, afrofunk, jazz, house, groove, electronica, all performed by Australian artists, with a locals stage showcasing the incredible talent found in our own backyard.
Friday’s line-up includes Byron Bay’s psychedelic rockers Babe Rainbow who have just returned from a US tour that included a desert festival headlined by Iggy Pop and Tame Impala. Other acts performing on Friday include The Slingers, Dorsal Fins, Our Carlson, and Donald’s House.
On Saturday you can catch locals Holly McNamara, Thea Lang, Oliver Northam, The Maes, Tahnee Ollerton, and Aplegate.
Don’t miss Ausecuma Beats, a nine-piece band from Senegal, Cuba, Mali, Guinea, Gambia and Australia who will have you dancing up a storm.
There’s also the infectious upbeat sounds of indie rockers Cousin Tony’s Brand New Firebird and the psychedelic pop/disco tunes of Sunfruits.
Saturday will feature The Stroppies, Folk Bitch Trio, Bones and Jones, Virtual State Radio, and MOD CON.
Backyard Fest has licensed bars and food trucks and will be running a free shuttle service from Castlemaine Train Station.
Camping is available at Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve, with free shuttle buses ferrying you to and from Lot 19 all day and night.
Tickets are still available via www.backyardfest.com.au, where you can find all the festival details including the full program and contact information.
