After a near sell-out first event, Forest Creek Fest returns this Sunday with a matinee gathering of some of Victoria’s most exciting established and emerging singer-songwriters, sharing songs and stories at the historic Theatre Royal, Castlemaine.
Presented by local indie label and artist collective, Forest Creek Records, this annual series is designed to celebrate and elevate the unique voices shaping our folk and indie scenes.
Headlining this year’s festival is one of Australia’s most treasured singer-songwriters, Lior, performing with local community choir, Forest Creek Folk. Together they’ll be presenting original arrangements of songs from Lior’s ARIA award-winning debut album, Autumn Flow, celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2026.
Rounding out the bill will be solo sets from songwriting veteran Ainslie Wills and Melbourne-based favourite Merpire, alongside an emerging artist showcase featuring Rupert Bullard, Fernie Nicoll, Blue Ren and Imogen Pemberton.
There’ll also be special guest performances from Sean Riley and Hana Stretton.
Forest Creek Records’ James McGuffie said the audience could expect a dynamic, heartfelt celebration of songwriting, community and creativity.
“This is an event for folk lovers, lyric heads and anyone who enjoys hearing songs in their most human form,” he said.
This year’s event will include a dedicated kids’ ‘Tiny Design Station’, a mini hub for drawing and coloring in, sponsored by Forest Creek Tinies.
Organisers will also be holding a raffle fundraiser in support of Castlemaine Community House, which is currently providing vital relief for those impacted by the recent fires in the region.
The festival runs from 2pm-5pm. Tickets are available via Oztix. Children welcome with a parent/guardian.
The event is proudly supported by Forest Creek Tinies, MainFM and Boomtown Wines.
