To celebrate all the leafy delights autumn offers up, we’ve rounded up the best spots around Victoria to take in the colours this season, so what are you waiting for?
Choose your own adventure at the month-long Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival
Revel in nature’s mindfulness, unearthing farm-fresh food and drink adventures across nine charming regional villages at the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival.
Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival
- When: 1-30 April
- Where: Various locations across the Macedon Ranges
- Tickets: many events are free, while some are ticketed, go here for full program
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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Uncover an extensive calendar of more than 60 unique events; think mouth-watering culinary events, destination open gardens, artisanal workshops, genuine farmers markets, Easter workshops, paranormal investigations, gallery exhibitions, mushroom foraging, and more!
Collect a Festival Map and Passport and let your palate guide the way along Australia’s Biggest Pie & Tart Trail, the plant-based Edgy Veg Trail, or the new, full-of-spirit Tipple Trail.
Visit eight leafy picnic Treasure Trail locations to discover clues, uncover the top-secret pie recipe, and feature within your own picture-perfect Autumn Festival picnic poster.
Check out these highlights – not to be missed!
- A full month of events – from farmers markets to exclusive food and drink events, creative workshops, blacksmithing, a French brocante marche, Easter activities for the kids, mushroom foraging, and more. Experience more than 50 events.
- Tipple Trail (NEW!) – the refreshing autumn Tipple Trail features 34 Macedon Ranges venues each heroing a signature drink for the adults in your travel group. Nominate a designated driver and explore responsibly throughout April to get a taste of the Macedon Ranges’ craft brewers, gin distillers, cool country wine makers, along with country pubs and wine-bars showcasing their cocktail-making talent.
- Australia’s Biggest Pie & Tart Trail – more than 50 venues will be cooking up delicious pies, tarts, and other buttery, crumbly interpretations as part of the Autumn Pie and Tart Trail –making it the biggest known pie trail in Australia! Perhaps start with savoury and then move on to sweet, or vice versa.
- The Edgy Veg Trail – celebrate with more than 30bmouthwatering meals from Macedon Ranges cafes, pubs and restaurants who are pulling out all stops to create innovative plant-based dishes that will wow your tastebuds.
- The Treasure Trail Returns – get ready to solve the 2025 Treasure Trail, with eight secret pie recipe clues to discover within eight leafy picnic hotspots throughout the Macedon Ranges, featuring sky-high autumnal trees.
Collect your Festival Map and discover bountiful botanic gardens, glistening lakes, and adventurous playgrounds.
- Share your Picture-Perfect Autumn Picnic (NEW! ) – unlock a hidden photo opportunity available exclusively by QR Code along the Autumn Festival Treasure Trail during April. Visit any of the eight picnic locations to find and scan the Picture-Perfect Autumn Picnic QR Code to feature within your very own Autumn Festival poster.
Now there’s something to do every day of April, no excuses for boredom here! Let yourself be led through the incredible local attractions for a month-long feast of the senses, you won’t be sorry you made it to the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival.
The 20th Woodend Winter Arts Festival is a four-day creative feast
The highly anticipated Woodend Winter Arts Festival (WWAF) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and this June, the charming village of Woodend in the heart of the Macedon Ranges will come alive with four unforgettable days of music, film, and fascinating conversations.
Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or just looking for something unique to do this long weekend, this festival has it all. Scroll down to check it out!
Woodend Winter Arts Festival
- When: Friday 6 June – Monday 9 June
- Where: Woodend, Macedon ranges
- Full program here
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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World-Class Performances at Stunning Venues
Prepare to be blown away by over 90 artists performing at some of the most intimate and acoustically perfect venues Woodend has to offer. From the stunning St Ambrose Church to the cozy St Ambrose Hall next door, you’ll be treated to a stellar line-up of world-class musicians – many of whom typically perform at major concert halls.
This year, you can catch some truly incredible international acts, like Anne Harvey-Nagl, performing Brahms’ sonatas for piano and violin alongside John O’Donnell, all the way from Vienna. Not to mention Davide Monti on violin and Maria Christina Cleary on harp bringing their internationally renowned Arpala performance.
For something a little different, enjoy the vibrant sounds of Moroccan vocalist Lamiae Naki and her ensemble Seffarine, whose fusion of traditional Moroccan music and flamenco will transport you straight to the Straits of Gibraltar. There’s also a jazzy treat on the program with Chris Johnstone and the Mat Jodrell Quartet.
A Program Packed with Diversity
From the stirring solos of Berta Brozgul on piano to the 8 Cellos delivering an unforgettable performance, there’s truly something for everyone. Classical music lovers will be right at home, but if you’re new to the scene or just curious, this festival is the perfect way to dip your toes into different genres and styles.
Also back for more is the Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia, as well as a family-friendly Cinderella performance by Inventi Ensemble. It’s a mix of breathtaking artistry and warm community vibes that make this festival truly special.
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Thought-Provoking Talks & Ideas
If you’re into big ideas and engaging discussions, you’ll be in good company. The Words & Ideas program brings together some of Australia’s most brilliant minds.
In honour of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, you can hear from her fifth great-niece, Caroline Jane Knight, who will share stories of growing up at Chawton House – the very place where Austen wrote her iconic novels.
Other must-see talks include Christopher Menz on the influential designer William Morris, a political discussion with Judith Brett, and fascinating insights from Rodney Hall, Margaret Simons, and Dietmar Toubier.
A Little Bit of Theatre & Film
And, of course, no festival would be complete without a little theatre and film! You can catch two absurdist plays by acclaimed writer Peter Rose and a screening of the poignant The Great White Whale by Michael Dillon.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or just looking for something a little different to do over the King’s Birthday long weekend, the Woodend Winter Arts Festival has got you covered.
So, mark your calendars for June 6-9, 2025, and come celebrate two decades of artistic excellence with a program that’s sure to inspire, entertain, and leave you craving more!
There’s still a chance to make it to this year’s groovin’ Goom Fest
The team behind Goom Fest may be small, but their passion for bringing people together, celebrating connection and the magic that is live music, is mighty.
Goom Fest 2025
- When: Saturday 5 April – Sunday 6 April
- Where: Wangoom, VIC
- Last Tickets here
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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Goomfest is an outdoor overnight music festival running since 2019, held on a farm just 10 minutes from Warrnambool in Wangoom, VIC. and serving up a buffet of bands, DJs, art installations, cocktail bar, food vendors, free camping and BYO drinks.
There’s still a few updates to come, following the rescheduling of the festival due to weather conditions back in February, so keep an eye out for the renewed line-up!
CAMPING
Goomfest gives people an opportunity to camp under the sky with friends while enjoying art, music, food and a sense of community.
FOOD AND DRINK
Goom hosts a range of local food vendors providing a variety of cuisines and catering for dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. There will be a bar onsite providing beverages and a curated cocktail menu. The event also includes a coffee van to fulfill all your caffeine needs.
Goomfest is BYO drinks with no glass. Cars will be checked for glass on arrival. Patrons can bring their own food however cooking appliances are prohibited including camping stoves, BBQ’s and fire pits.
ACCESSIBILITY
Goomfest provides a fully accessible event. There is accessible parking onsite as well as accessible toilets. Carers are given free access to the event if they provide a companion card and are providing support.
For everything else, visit GOOM.
Velvet Bloom drops debut album and hits the road for national tour
It’s finally here! Soul pop sensation Velvet Bloom has dropped their self-titled debut album today; Friday 28 March, and fans are in for a treat.
Velvet Bloom VIC tour dates:
- Friday 28 March
Northside Records In Store, Naarm (Melbourne) – Free Entry - Saturday 5 April
Bathing In The Creek, Boonwurrung Country (Archies Creek) - Sunday 13 April
Mamma Chen’s, Kulin Nation (Footscray) – All Ages - Sunday 4 May
The Shed Theatre (Pig & Whistle), Boonwurrung Country (Mornington Peninsula),
- Sunday 22 June
The Stockyard, Yorta Yorta Country (Cohuna) – All Ages
- Saturday 5 July
Northcote Social Club, Naarm (Melbourne)
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Fresh off signing with Yama-Nui Records and their electric performance at St Kilda Festival, where they won the New Music Stage competition, Velvet Bloom is ready to take audiences on a sonic journey with their fresh new sounds.
Velvet Bloom’s music is nothing short of a cosmic adventure. The band’s unique sound blends soul, pop, and everything in between, with Herbert’s powerful vocals and storytelling at the heart of it all. The debut album is a kaleidoscope of sounds, with each member contributing their own flair to create a rich, genre-defying experience.
From the fan-favourite single “My Love” to the hidden gems for longtime listeners, like “Nobody Else,” Velvet Bloom doesn’t shy away from exploring deep and personal themes. Tracks like “Best In You” and “How Could I Ever” showcase raw emotion, while songs like “Silver Tongue” and “Only You” highlight the power of music to heal and connect. And let’s not forget the beautiful closing track, “I’ll Love You Tomorrow,” which includes a special touch—friends and family were invited to sing along, adding a personal, heartfelt touch to the album. “The support of our friends and family is why we feel able to continue writing, releasing, and performing in the way that we do,” says Maddy Herbert, the band’s lead vocalist and lyricist. “We love our people so much and wanted to include them in this creation, ‘I’ll Love You Tomorrow’ was the perfect way to do that.”
Velvet Bloom first made waves with their debut EP Glimmer, released through Cousin Will Records, which set the stage for their national rise. Since then, the band has graced stages at some of Australia’s most iconic venues, from Lazy Bones to MONA, and festivals like St Kilda and Mordi Fest.
With their debut album out now and a national tour kicking off, there’s no stopping Velvet Bloom. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Kathleen Halloran welcomes vulnerability with new psychedelic single
After making waves with her debut solo track, ‘Free With Me’, the Australian guitarist and songwriter returns with her latest release, ‘Find Me Again’, a track exploring the complex balance between love and identity.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Halloran, who’s earned serious respect as a guitarist working alongside some of Australia’s biggest rock stars, is now fully embracing her solo sound with ‘Find Me Again’. The track blends powerful guitar riffs with vulnerable, poetic lyrics, and it’s clear Halloran’s got a knack for creating music that’s both emotionally raw and technically impressive. The result? A song that pulls you in, making you feel all sorts of ways—sometimes introspective, other times electric with energy.
The single, which drops today, was produced by Ross Irwin (The Cat Empire, The Bamboos) and engineered by Ben Edgar (Gotye, Angus & Julia Stone), the same team behind her debut track. Together, they’ve created a sound that pushes boundaries while staying true to Halloran’s artistic vision. The track feels fresh and expansive, but also grounded in Halloran’s authentic style.
“This song is a promise to myself,” Halloran explains. “It’s about recognising when you’ve lost a piece of who you are and committing to find your way back.”
To mark the launch, Halloran has shared a live performance video filmed at one of her favourite spots in St Kilda—Sorci E Morsi café. It’s the same place where she filmed visuals for her debut single, and the setting adds a personal touch, showcasing the kind of magnetic energy she brings to both her live shows and recorded music. The video captures both her technical skill and emotional depth, making it clear that Halloran is an artist who thrives in both intimate and larger-than-life settings.
With “Find Me Again,” Halloran is staking her claim as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging solo acts. Her ability to blend intricate guitar work with intimate, vulnerable songwriting shows she’s not just a guitar virtuoso—she’s an artist whose journey is only just beginning, and we can’t wait to see where she takes us next.
So, get ready to dive into the psychedelic world of “Find Me Again”, releasing today, March 28!
The showstopping Ballarat Cabaret Festival to light up the stage this May
The Ballarat Cabaret Festival is coming to town and you can expect a whirlwind of talent, thrills, and sophistication that’ll have you talking for months!
Ballarat Cabaret Festival
- When: Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 May
- Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange, 16 Lydiard St North, Ballarat Central
- Tickets: here
Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.
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Tickets are flying out the door for the electrifying Cabaret Gala, an evening jam-packed with glitz, glamour, and performances that’ll take your breath away. It’s the perfect way to kick off what’s set to be an unforgettable festival. And hold onto your hats—there’s more to come with more shows being announced soon!
But the festival isn’t just about the performances. It’s all about the vibe, the energy, and the community. Sip on a fancy cocktail at their stylish bar (free entry, by the way—yes, really) and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. Or catch the Cabaret Gala Show, where you’ll be treated to an exciting mix of performances and cheeky pop-up surprises throughout the night.
Fancy a little extra magic? Head over to the Living Portrait Theatre and get immortalised as a work of art—because who wouldn’t want to see themselves in the spotlight? This one is also free to participate, with $10 prints of the portrait available.
With four days of non-stop fun, flair, and fabulousness, the Ballarat Cabaret Festival is the place to be this May.
So grab your tickets, bring your best glam, and get ready for a festival that’s all about celebrating the art of performance in the most fabulous way possible!
Highton Bowls Club family fun day featuring Astrid Armstrong
Local performer Astrid Armstrong is returning to the stage for a Sunday sesh at Highton Bowls Club next month and the best part; it’s free!!
Astrid Armstrong
- When: Sunday 6 April, 12-3pm
- Where: Highton Bowls Club, free entry
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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Fuelled by her innate talent and nurtured by years of dedication, Astrid started singing lessons in year four and continued to hone her craft ever since.
It’s a lovely way to spend a Sunday, check out Highton Bowls and Astrid next month.
Review: Melbourne Women in Film Festival sparks palpable joy
The 2025 program showcased an impressive 40 features and documentaries from filmmakers hailing from Australia, Aotearoa/New Zealand and the wider Moana region, celebrating a rich tapestry of work and artistry.
I was honoured to attend three sessions this past weekend, with narratives and industry advice that still has me reeling with awe and excitement. Each audience I was a part of shared a palpable sense of joy, as we left feeling truly inspired and proud of our regional film scene.
Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.
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Freshly Squeezed Shorts
The session included an engaging and vibrant mix of documentary-style shorts exploring real-world stories, narrative fiction pieces that pushed creative boundaries, and imaginative animated works. All these films Cold Feet, Detangling the Stigma, While We Still Have Time, Armea, A Fox and a Sun, Taurewarewa, Bottle Money and Lean In were all distinctly different, yet woven and connected in their emotional resonance and artistic ambition. After the screenings, many of the shorts’ filmmakers participated in a live Q&A, describing how film is a powerful medium for sharing such diverse narratives. With the passion and confidence radiating from these women, our future of Asian-Pacific film is looking bright.
The Almost Midnight Movie Marathon
A warning “this is not for the squeamish” was announced to audiences before The Almost Midnight Movie Marathon, setting the tone for what was going to be a thrilling evening. This screening featured two electrifying and bold films, T Blockers and Grafted.
First, the spoof horror delight T Blockers, directed and written by the wonderful Alice Maio Mackay, which follows the harrowing journey of a young trans woman Sophie (Lauren Last) navigating her gender and sexuality among a hostile political climate. The film masterfully blends supernatural elements with real-world social commentary, creating a tense yet fun and thought-provoking punk narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats!
With a cast of young talented performers, vibrant cinematography, and a synth-infused score alongside its political satire, the film marks a departure from traditional cis-centric perspectives. “Never fuck with queer filmmakers” Mackay warns, as important filmmakers like her are transforming everyday discrimination into literal monsters, highlighting the visible and invisible threats that many trans individuals have the strength to face daily.
Then came Sasha Rainbow’s debut feature Grafted, and if this is only Rainbow’s debut, I am excited for what I anticipate will be a long and illustrious career in film. After being ostracised by her peers at an elite New Zealand university, a brilliant Chinese exchange student Wei (Joyene Sun) turns to her scientific talents, with disturbing consequences, in her desperate quest for acceptance and to honour her late father’s legacy.
Drawing from her advanced knowledge of biology and chemistry, she conducts increasingly dangerous experiments that blur the line between scientific advancement and personal obsession to cure her disfigurement. With its female-driven body horror elements reminiscent of films like The Substance, it offers a powerful commentary on academic pressure, cultural identity, and society’s impossible beauty standards for women and the lengths some will go for achieving perfection.
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Artrageous
Surrealist and Avant-Garde cinema is truly freeing and boundless in its artistic and creative expression, where artists can explore and experiment in the most unconventional of ways. Rooted in Australian third-wave feminism and the ’90s surrealist revival, this special screening, aptly named Artrageous, featured six short films from pioneering female writers and directors.
Maidenhead, Strap on Olympia, The World Really is W, Cheap Blonde, Lip and Amelia Rose Towers are rare feminist films with a vibrant mix of rebellion, humour, and surrealism with each piece challenging racial, sexuality and gender conventions with its bold artistic vision and provocative storytelling. Kim Miles’ Q&A at the end of the screening was truly awe-inspiring, with her rebellious attitude emphasising that this unapologetic type of filmmaking is still needed amidst the conformity and dissonance of mainstream cinema.
Next year marks MWFF’s 10th anniversary—a significant milestone in championing diverse voices in film across the Asia-Pacific region. Be sure to mark your calendars and join them in celebrating this incredible showcase of gender-diverse and women’s voices, stories, and creativity in film.
Supported by the City of Melbourne and VicScreen, the Melbourne Women in Film Festival remains an essential platform for bold, boundary-pushing filmmaking that inspires the next generation of storytellers.
The best places to see autumn leaves in Victoria
With autumn leaves now falling in the beautiful parks and gardens across Victoria, there’s no time like the present to get outside and appreciate the golden hues of this vibrant season.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Gardens of Tieve Tara – Mount Macedon
Mount Macedon is famed for its vibrant autumn leaves and there is no better vantage point than Gardens of Tieve Tara. The grounds are lined with maples, pin oaks, aspens, liquid ambers, and more, each bringing forth a different shade. Serene lakes reflect the fiery trees which line their banks, making it a truly magical setting.
Find Gardens of Tieve Tara at 751 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon
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Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens – Mount Dandenong
Punctuated by ornamental lakes, Japanese-style bridges and greenery, Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens are stunning year-round, but come Fall, the landscape is set alight with burning red and orange autumn leaves, creating the most beautiful foliage. Most Australian trees are not deciduous, meaning autumn has no effect on them, though Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens are sprinkled with an assortment of non-native species which erupt into a colourful canopy.
Find Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens at 1 Sherbrooke Rd, Sherbrooke
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Fitzroy Gardens – East Melbourne
If you don’t want to stray too far from the city, Fitzroy Gardens is a great way to get your fix of deciduous trees. English elms, maidenhair trees and lindens each turn golden, carpeting the sparse inner-city park in rich yellow and orange leaves. Although it’s situated within the inner city, Fitzroy Gardens are surprisingly serene and offer a great place to pull up a picnic rug or roam the grounds.
Find Fitzroy Gardens at Wellington Parade, East Melbourne
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A panoramic view of red and orange: Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens – Daylesford
Perched atop an extinct volcano, Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens offer panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. During autumn, Daylesford becomes a tapestry of golden foliage which only grows more beautiful the higher you climb. The Pioneers Lookout Tower offers uninterrupted views of the town whose colours burns bright in the afternoon sun.
Find Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens at Central Springs Road, Daylesford
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Cloudehill Gardens – Dandenong Ranges
So much beauty sweeps through Cloudehill Gardens each autumn that Cloudehill Festival of Flowers exists to celebrate the influx of tawny hues. Weeping maples, salvias and beeches litter the ground with a spectrum of tones ranging from crimson to honey. Situated on a slope 580 metres above sea level, the well-manicured gardens are as if plucked from a fairy-tale.
Find Cloudehill Gardens at 89 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda
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Valley of Liquidambers – Heathcote
As their name suggests, liquid ambers epitomise the beauty of autumn in an ochre-tinged, towering package. While not great in size, Valley of Liquid Ambers is a visual feast of which you’ll never grow full. Take a picnic and nestle in among the trees or take a stroll along the leaf-litter. If you’re up for a challenge, take a walk to Viewing Rock Lookout and take in the town and its trees in all their resplendence.
Find Valley of Liquidambers at Range Drive, Heathcote
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Royal Botanic Gardens – Melbourne
Experience immaculate autumnal beauty within Melbourne’s own backyard at the Royal Botanic Gardens. The best spot for photos is the Oak Lawn – with its beautiful oak trees of all varieties, it’s a perfect place for a picnic. With its beautifully manicured lawns, crisp autumn foliage and pristine lakes full of birdlife, the Royal Botanic Gardens are a place for rest and to reconnect with nature at the heart of our busy city.
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne. They’re open 7.30am to 5:30pm.
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Yarra Valley – Victoria
As grapevines turn various shades of gold and amber, there’s nothing more beautiful than a vineyard in autumn. With no shortage of wineries, the Yarra Valley is the perfect place to explore as the autumn leaves start to change colour around Victoria. At just an hour’s drive away, it’s the perfect weekend getaway amongst award winning wineries and cellar doors.
The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges are an hour’s drive east from the Melbourne CBD.
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Mansfield – High Country
With beautiful lakes and walking tracks, Mansfield invites you to discover a nature lover’s paradise. Situated at the base of Mount Buller, Mansfield offers many scenic walks and horseback treks through the autumnal mountain countryside. Across Mt Stirling, the Delatite River, the Howqua River and beyond, you will experience the scenery from ‘The Man from Snowy River’. If you’re in the area on a Saturday, there’s a monthly farmer’s market that has the best local produce from the region.
Mansfield is 190km north-east of Melbourne. Post code: 3722.
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Ballarat’s Avenue of Honour – Ballarat
Dedicated to the services of the local men and women who served in the First World War, this tree-lined avenue spans 22 kilometres and is the longest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Each tree (there are a whopping 3,771 of them) has a plaque dedicated to an individual who served in the war. The avenue has a grand Arch of Victory and is a beautiful place for a drive in the autumn months, as the elm trees turn copper, gold and red.
The Avenue of Honour spans across Sturt Street in Ballarat.
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Buchan Caves – East Gippsland
These jaw-dropping caves from the Devonian period were formed by underground rivers boring their way through limestone rock. The surroundings boast impressive European trees, which light up the valley in autumn with their red and gold leaves. Visit the Buchan Caves and the Buchan Caves Reserve to experience native wildlife and the scenic trees through a natural wonder.
Visit the caves and the parklands that surround them at 98 Caves Road Buchan Victoria 3885 Australia
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A festival of Autumn leaves: Bright – High Country
Autumn is without a doubt, the best time to visit the town of Bright. An extremely picturesque town full of deciduous trees that burst with autumn splendour, they even have an Autumn Festival, which is a must-see event for any lover of changing Autumn leaves. With boutique wineries and breweries, Bright is the perfect place for a weekend getaway between the mountains.
Visit Bright in the Alpine Shire local government area. Its postcode is 3741.
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If you’re curious about the seasonal changes that happen during the Autumn months, head here.
Indie darling Faye Webster returns down under for theatre shows this July
Atlanta’s genre-defying songstress Faye Webster is set to grace our shores once again, with two headline theatre shows announced for July 2025.
The acclaimed artist will bring her breakout album Underdressed At The Symphony to life at two of Australia’s most beloved venues, following a massive US and UK/EU tour that’s seen her sell out iconic spots like Radio City Music Hall.
Faye Webster 2025 Tour
- July 12 – Forum, Melbourne
- July 15 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
With Underdressed at the Symphony crowned one of 2024’s most acclaimed albums, Webster has firmly established herself as “one of this generation’s definitional folk-rock voices,” according to Paste Magazine.
The record explores emotional intimacy where desire and passion conflict with comfort and understanding, all wrapped in her warm, otherworldly vocals and lush pedal steel.
It’s this genre-bending approach that makes Webster such a captivating artist – blending pedal steel, indie rock, soft vocals and R&B sensibilities while embodying the spirit of her hometown Atlanta.
Last in Australia in 2024 for headline shows and Laneway Festival appearances across Australia and New Zealand, Webster wowed audiences with intimate live sets.
Her latest tour has seen her sharing stages with friends and collaborators like Lil Yachty and Daniel Caesar, while making her network television debut performing But Not Kiss on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and delivering a dreamy NPR Tiny Desk Concert with a string quartet.
A musical prodigy who self-taught guitar by elementary school, Webster released her debut album Run & Tell at just 16. Her Southern roots were obvious, but she was equally embedded in Atlanta’s hip-hop scene – she was classmates with Lil Yachty and signed to Awful Records alongside Father and Playboi Carti before moving to Secretly Canadian.
Beyond music, Webster is a successful photographer who has shot campaigns for Killer Mike, Offset, D.R.A.M and Nike. She’s also a sometimes model and full-time yoyo enthusiast (no, really).
Webster’s rise from teenage phenomenon to indie darling has been “something to behold” according to Ramona Magazine, with Pitchfork describing her as “an assassin who comes out of the shadows with something witheringly funny or totally devastating.”
Frontier Member presale commences Monday 31 March from 10am AEDT before tickets go on sale Wednesday 2 April from 10am AEDT. Get them here.
Explore the current beneath with Seahorse Readings and Friends of the Anglesea River public poetry
Whether you’re a seasoned poet, a first-timer or simply someone who enjoys the art of the spoken word, this gathering is for you.
Enjoy an enchanting evening by the river, where the warmth of community and the power of poetry come together at a picnic hosted by Seahorse Readings Poetry and Friends of Anglesea River.
Seahorse Readings poetry by the banks:
- When: Thursday 27 March, 5pm
- Where: Boat Sheds, Anglesea
- Theme: The Current Beneath
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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For simply a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going back into the Friends of Anglesea River work, all are welcome to take part in an intimate, creative gathering that celebrates expression, connection, and the beauty of words.
This evening promises an open and inclusive space where you can share your voice—whether through reading an original poem, reciting a favourite work by another poet, or just coming to enjoy the experience. There’s no pressure to perform; it’s all about creating a welcoming environment where everyone can engage with poetry in their own way.
Come along, meet like-minded individuals, and immerse yourself in the power of poetry. Whether you’re reading, listening, or both, the evening promises to be a celebration of creativity and community.
So come visit the river for a night you won’t forget. See you there!
Have your say on the value of Greater Geelong’s public art
From murals to sculptures, public art is more than just decoration—it’s a powerful tool that helps shape our identity, spark conversations, and bring our urban spaces to life.
That’s why the City of Greater Geelong is gearing up to develop a brand new Public Art Strategy, and they want you to be a part of it!
Artists and Creatives Workshop
- When: Friday 4 April, 6-9pm
- Where: Wurriki Nyal137-149 Mercer Street, Geelong
- Register here
Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.
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Over the years, public art has evolved and so have our expectations. The ways we use technology, the diversity of voices involved, and what we value in art are all shifting. So, the Council is inviting everyone—artists, locals, and anyone who cares about the future of our public spaces—to come together, share ideas, and help steer the direction of this new strategy.
On the agenda? A dynamic discussion on how public art can amplify the city’s creative ecosystem and its status as a UNESCO City of Design. Three internationally recognized artists—Callum Morton, Natasha Johns-Messenger, and James Tapscott—will lead a special presentation, offering insights into the role public art plays in revitalizing urban areas and sparking community dialogue.
This is your chance to have your voice heard and contribute to a vision that celebrates who we are as a community. Whether you’re an artist, a local business owner, or just someone who enjoys a good piece of art in the public space, your input is valued.
Want to join the conversation? Simply head here to register. Just make sure to include your contact info—and if you’re bringing a friend, don’t forget to register them separately.
Oh, and did we mention there’ll be light refreshments to keep you fueled for the discussion?
So mark your calendars, bring your best ideas, and get ready to shape the future of public art in Greater Geelong.
WIN: tickets to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, plus an overnight stay at Brady Hotel Jones Lane
There’s no happier place to be than Melbourne this time of year, when comedians hit the stages of venues across the city and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival takes over town, delivering a whole month of belly-aching laughter to comedy lovers, locals and tourists alike.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival
- Where: 133 venues throughout Melbourne
- When: 26 March – 20 April 2025
- Cost: Tickets start from $10, with an average price of $35
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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We’ve teamed up with Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Brady Hotels to produce a cracker of a giveaway to pass on to one of our comedy-loving readers.
One lucky Forte reader can win:
- 1 x nights accom in Melb at Brady Hotels – Jones Lane
- $100 Drinking & dining voucher at Fancy Hanks
- 2 x tickets to New Order, Fri 11 Apr
- 2 x tickets to the Festival Club, Friday 11 Apr
Whether you’re in need of something to impress that special someone in your life, you’re wanting to take your bestie out for a night, or you just want to treat your mum to comedy and a night in the city, this giveaway is the ticket.
The 39th Melbourne International Comedy Festival kicks off this week, showcasing 690 shows across 182 stages in the city. This year’s festival features more than 1000 performers from around Australia and overseas, with over 130 international artists joining the lineup. The four-week comedy extravaganza will transform Melbourne into a laughing stock (in the best possible way) from 26 March to 20 April.
All you need to do is fill in the form below to be in the running. You’ve got to be in it to win it. Winners will be drawn on Friday 4 April.
By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
WIN: We’re giving away five admit-four in-season family passes to Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up
Releasing locally through Pinnacle Films, this fun adventure from Warner Bros. Animation – which also marks the 90th birthday of Porky Pig – is the first ever fully animated Looney Tunes movie and stars a host of iconic Looney Tunes characters, beloved by audiences everywhere.
This sci-fi romp follows the legendary comedic duo, Porky Pig and Daffy Duck, as they become Earth’s only hope after their antics at a local bubble-gum factory uncover a secret alien mind-control plot. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments, stunning visuals, and the classic Looney Tunes charm, this epic buddy-comedy delivers a whole new level of fun for fans old and new!
To celebrate the release, we’re giving away five X admit-four family passes to five lucky winners!
To enter, simply fill out the form below. Winners will be drawn on Wednesday 2 April, with winners notified by email. Passes will be sent to the lucky winners digitally.
By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
Meredith Dairy’s new paddock to plate experiences not to be missed
The space showcases produce from their farm, offering coffee, local honey, dips and, of course, their renowned marinated goat’s cheese. The menu highlights ethical and sustainable cooking with dishes like goat adobo and pulled capretto salad with pepperberry chèvre.
Meredith Dairy
- Where: 30 Staughton Street, Meredith
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 8am – 3pm
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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From its humble beginnings, Meredith Dairy has grown into a respected name known for its high-quality, sustainable dairy products. But the couple’s commitment to the land and community remains at the heart of everything they do. Their belief in the importance of protecting and improving the land for future generations is a guiding principle that influences every decision at Meredith Dairy.
Today, the couple’s vision extends beyond producing exceptional dairy products. They are dedicated to contributing to a more sustainable world, ensuring that their farm not only supports their family but also plays a positive role in preserving the environment and supporting the local community.
Meredith Dairy stands as a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and sustainability in farming, proving that with dedication and a love for the land, dreams can become a thriving reality.
Tim’s Toastie empire expands with delicious Delacombe shopfront
From a fan-favourite farmer’s market stall to a permanent home, the new space (seating up to 10) serves up dine-in and takeaway golden, gooey goodness with a rotating menu of toasties, championing locally sourced ingredients like Salt Kitchen’s charcuterie meats and 1816 Bakehouse’s sourdough.
Tim’s Toasties
- Opening hours: Thursday and Friday 7am – 2pm; Saturday 9am -1pm
- Location: 1 Opportunity Close, Delacombe (10 minutes from the Ballarat City Centre)
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
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Tim’s Bone Toasties offer an unforgettable culinary experience that’s quickly becoming a local favourite. Known for their perfectly melty cheese, whether it’s the crumbled goodness of Feta or the creamy richness of Meredith Dairy Goats cheese, each toastie is loaded with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Piled high with quality charcuterie or butcher-grade meats, these gourmet sandwiches are served between crispy, toasted sourdough from Ballarat’s own 1816 Bakehouse, all finished off with a lavish spread of butter and a pinch of The 5th Season Inland Salt.
For five years, Tim’s Toasties was a beloved mobile business, making appearances at local farmers markets, regional events, and private catering gigs.
Today, the business has found a cozy home in the heart of Delacombe, and guests are welcomed into a charming space adorned with classic movie posters, a carefully curated selection of books, and Tim’s exclusive range of condiments, creating an atmosphere as inviting as the toasties themselves.
A visit to Tim’s Toasties is more than just about the food—it’s an experience to savour and share.
The Q Train x Melbourne Food and Wine Festival x Merne: A degustation on rails
Its fine dining degustation on rails is a true adventure, both literally and figuratively. In an exclusive collaboration with the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival and local Bellarine gem, Merne at Lighthouse, this one-of-a-kind experience blends the nostalgia of a historic railway ride with the artistry of exceptional cuisine.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
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As the train winds through the Bellarine Peninsula, you’re not just eating all the delicious things but experiencing a multisensory adventure celebrating the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant produce. This five-course degustation felt like a heartfelt love letter to the Bellarine Peninsula, Australia’s rising wine and culinary hotspot.
Pre-Boarding: A taste of what’s to come
Before we even boarded, the experience began with a vibrant welcome: sun-ripened Lonsdale tomatoes, bursting with the sweetness of summer, paired with a glass of crisp, locally sourced sparkling wine (I had the McGlashan Pinot Noir Sparkling, highly recommend). It was a refreshing invitation to pause and savour the present. As we settled in, Marie-Claire Trotter, the charismatic CEO of The Q Train, greeted us with infectious energy, offering insights into the Bellarine region.
All aboard: Dining in Motion
We were seated in the intimate ‘First Class’ carriage. It felt like stepping into a private foodie bubble, where laughter, conversation, and anticipation buzzed through the air. The food distinguishes this journey; each meticulously crafted dish, paired with wines from Bellarine’s finest producers, elevates the experience with every bite and sip. The region’s cool-climate wines, particularly the Pinot Noir and Shiraz, perfectly match the landscape. Oakdene’s wines, in particular, stand out—a solid 10/10.
First Course: Stracciatella with pickled pumpkin, shimeji mushrooms, celery seed, macadamia, and anise myrtle.
From the very first bite, I was captivated. The creamy stracciatella danced with the tang of pickled pumpkin, while earthy shimeji mushrooms added a satisfying crunch. The delicate balance of these ingredients created a playful yet sophisticated opening act…setting the stage for the courses to come. 9/10
Second Course: Kingfish ceviche with sunrise lime, coconut yoghurt, radish, and chervil
A burst of tropical freshness arrived in the form of this vibrant kingfish ceviche, perfectly balanced by the zing of sunrise lime and the velvety creaminess of coconut yoghurt. The dish was a refreshing invitation to dive deeper into the region’s culinary riches. 9/10
As we journeyed on, a brief stop at Suma Park Station offered a moment to step outside and breathe in the Bellarine’s expansive air. A peaceful pause before we returned to the train and dove back into the culinary adventure.
Third Course: Kangaroo with pickled walnut, pecorino, buckwheat, and parsley
This dish was a daring leap into the unknown something a little outside of my normal comfort zone. The bold, rustic flavours paired with the tartness of pickled walnut and the crunch of buckwheat created a unique texture and memorable combination. It was an authentic celebration of the land’s untamed spirit. 9/10
Queenscliff Stopover
We arrived in the charming seaside village of Queenscliff. The air was filled with the soulful sounds of live blues music from “The Blues Train” (another immersive train experience on the Bellarine), and tastings from FarmDog Brewing and Bellarine Distillery enhanced the atmosphere. After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, we boarded the train for the final leg of our journey.
Fourth Course: Grilled ‘Bellarine Fungi’ Lion’s Mane mushroom with rosella, roasted cauliflower purée, chard, and pangrattato
The Lion’s Mane mushrooms were a crowd favourite; they were large and steak-like. This dish perfectly captured the region’s earthy beauty, paired with the silky roasted cauliflower purée and vibrant rosella. 9.5/10
Dessert: Pumpkin panna cotta
At first, I wasn’t sure about pumpkin in a dessert, but one bite was all it took to silence any doubts. The creamy panna cotta, paired with rich burnt maple cream, a hint of spicy ginger, and the crunch of Otway walnuts, delivered a revelation: unexpected yet utterly harmonious. It was the perfect way to cap off a memorable food journey. 10/10
The final round: teas, coffees, or hot chocolates. Naturally, I kept the indulgence train rolling and went for a hot chocolate. Because why not?
The Q Train is a must try experience for those searching for a culinary adventure that transcends the ordinary. I would 100% go again.
Werribee Open Range Zoo’s massive elephant trail is finally open to the public
Werribee Open Range Zoo has just upped its animal game with the grand opening of the massive Elephant Trail, giving Melbourne’s west bragging rights to one of the most impressive elephant habitats on the planet.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos cut the ribbon on the sprawling 21-hectare wonderland that now houses nine Asian elephants in a space literally the size of the entire Melbourne Zoo. The new digs feature two enormous pools connected to the Werribee Recycled Water Plant through a 2.5km pipeline pumping a whopping 150 million litres of recycled water.
Werribee Elephant Trail
- Now open to the public
- School holidays – Kids under 16 go free
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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The $88 million government-funded project has created a stunning walking trail that lets visitors get properly up close with the herd while they roam, swim and generally live their best elephant lives. Despite the enormous scale, clever design means families can still spot these gentle giants from various vantage points throughout the site.
These majestic trunked residents have been quietly settling into their new postcode over recent weeks, acclimatising to the west side lifestyle before their public debut. With perfect timing, they’re now ready for their close-up just as the school holidays kick off.
The government’s Kids Go Free program means anyone under 16 can visit without paying a cent during school holidays, weekends and public holidays – not just at Werribee but also at Melbourne Zoo, Kyabram Fauna Park and Healesville Sanctuary. It’s a budget-friendly day out that’s impossible to ignore for cash-conscious parents looking to entertain restless kids.
“The beautiful new Elephant Trail makes the Werribee Open Range Zoo even better, and it’s open just in time for kids to visit free these school holidays,” said Premier Allan, clearly chuffed with the project’s completion.
Environment Minister Dimopoulos added that visitors “will go wild for this new experience” while Zoos Victoria CEO Dr Jenny Gray emphasised the world-leading animal welfare standards built into the design.
The new habitat represents a significant tourism boost for Melbourne’s west, with Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari celebrating the “super exciting” addition to the region’s attractions.
Tickets and further information here.