The historic township of Maldon came alive on the weekend as goths from across Australia converged to celebrate the dark side of the goldfields with performances, music, food and friends.
Goldfields Gothic organisers Valentina Tansley and Michelle Dorian said the historic township of Maldon made a great backdrop for the festival.
“Maldon was a tourist destination back in the 80s and 90s, where people would come and have afternoon tea, but the town lost what it had to offer,” Valentina said.
“Coming out of COVID it was a good time to shake things up and reimagine.
“The programming focuses on goth culture, goldfield history and Victoriana culture,” Valentina said.
“The locals have really embraced the festival,” Michelle said.
“Everywhere you go there are cupcakes with eyes, black coffees and black ice cream.”
For Maddie and Matilda, who are in their middle years of high school, having a gothic festival in their very own town of Maldon means they are exposed to other people that don’t necessarily fit the societal norm.
“It’s fun and different,” Matilda said.
“And we feel like we fit in.”
Brooklyn Pettit (aka Ghoul Baby) who travelled up from Melbourne for the festival, looks as though she’s stepped off a film set with her pointy pixie ears, blond hair and pale complexion.
“I grew up in a small country town,” Brooklyn said. “I used to dye my hair all sorts of different colours and people always looked at me as if I was strange.”
“But when I moved to Melbourne, everyone in the goth community was warm and nice – despite their exterior.
“No matter what people say about your style, you can dress how you want,” she said.
“Events like this allow you to pursue your interests and express yourself.”