Ollie Lishman

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Ollie Lishman

Ollie Lishman is a Naarm raised DJ & Producer gaining traction thanks to his fast-paced trance, techno and iconic grooves that keep the dance floors thriving.

Inspired by 90s techno and trance, Ollie’s productions have broken into the scene; receiving international recognition from heavy weights, Trym, X CLUB, FRANCK, DJ Heartstring and many more as his productions continue to get played in the international arena, gracing various Boiler Rooms and festivals.

Review: Shihad’s Loud Forever Farewell Tour is a triumphant celebration of rock legacy

As the lights dimmed and the anticipation in the crowd reached a fever pitch, the weight of the moment was palpable. This wasn’t just another show—it was a celebration of Shihad’s remarkable journey, a testament to their unwavering impact on the rock scene.

Check out our interview with Shihad’s Tom Larkin here!

The night kicked off with an intense cinematic introduction that set the tone for what was to come. As the crowd erupted into cheers, Jon Toogood and the band stormed the stage, delivering an explosive opening with ‘Tear Down Those Names’. The band immediately pulled the audience into their world of hard-hitting riffs and commanding stage presence. The first few moments of the show felt like a shared, almost sacred experience—fans stood in awe, knowing they were witnessing history.

Shihad’s setlist was a carefully curated journey through their illustrious discography, showcasing their evolution while honouring the core of their sound. They didn’t just play songs—they delivered an emotional rollercoaster, capturing the essence of what has made them such a revered band. ‘Feel the Fire’ followed, with the crowd singing along in unison, the power of their connection to the band clear with every lyric.

Tracks from their 2014 album FVEY brought a fresh burst of energy, with ‘Think You’re So Free’ and ‘FVEY’ sending waves of excitement through the crowd. The synergy between the band and their fans was undeniable, each song feeling like a shared experience rather than just a performance. It was clear that this was more than a concert—it was a communal celebration of music that has been the soundtrack to countless lives.

The setlist was a perfect blend of the old and new. From Ignite, they unleashed ‘Sleepeater’ and the title track ‘Ignite’, both met with raucous applause. The crowd was further treated to classics from Beautiful Machine, including ‘One Will Hear the Other’ and ‘Beautiful Machine’, before the band shifted gears with tracks like ‘Alive’ and ‘All the Young Fascists’ from Love Is the New Hate. The shift to their brief Pacifier era was met with equal enthusiasm, as fans bellowed the lyrics to ‘Comfort Me, Everything’, and ‘Bulletproof’.

However, it was during The General Electric section that the night truly hit another level. This was the album that introduced many fans to Shihad’s raw, unfiltered energy, and songs like ‘My Mind’s Sedate’, ‘The General Electric’, and ‘Pacifier’ ignited a wave of nostalgia.

The show continued with ‘La La Land’ from their 2016 self-titled album, followed by two cuts from Killjoy—’Deb’s Night Out’ and ‘You Again’. As the show neared its end, the band played ‘Screwtop’ before leaving the stage to a chorus of chants for an encore.

The crowd’s anticipation was palpable as Shihad returned to the stage for a fiery encore. Run opened the encore, followed by their stunning cover of Split Enz’s ‘I Got You’. The band then treated fans to a rare gem—’I Only Said’ from their debut album Churn, a track many hadn’t heard live in years. The night reached its emotional peak with ‘Home Again’, one of Shihad’s most iconic anthems. The roar of the crowd was deafening, a fitting and heartfelt tribute to a band that has meant so much to so many.

As the final notes rang out, Toogood addressed the crowd one last time, inviting everyone to join in for a commemorative photo. With devil horns raised high and the room full of cheers it was an unforgettable conclusion to a legendary chapter.

A night of celebration, reflection, and pure rock glory, it was a perfect farewell to one of New Zealand’s greatest musical exports.

Sing, play, or simply enjoy with Imaginary Millions, Ocean Grove’s monthly community jam

Come and join us for a vibrant community music jam that welcomes people of all ages and talents to come together through the power of music.

Imaginary Millions

  • When: Saturday 5 April
  • Where: Two Doors Down, 4/41 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove

 

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Originally born in London in 2017, Imaginary Millions has made its way to Two Doors Down in Ocean Grove. Run and hosted by surf coast local Rob Major, who founded the mega jam sesh back in the UK, this monthly event is all about connecting with others, creating music, and sharing the joy that comes with it.

The best part? The team provide a full backline setup, including drums, microphones, bass, and guitar amps—just bring yourself and your instrument (if you have one) and be ready to explore new sounds! Whether you want to jam solo with a ukulele, play in a full band, sing a ballad, or simply enjoy the experience, every moment is an opportunity for connection.

Over the last few months, the fantastic event has seen everything from heartwarming solos and a cappella performances to spontaneous jams and laughter-filled sing-alongs. People of all ages have joined in – from 4-year-olds to 91-year-olds – proving that music truly knows no bounds.

Next month, Imaginary Millions be gathering on April 5 at Two Doors Down, a fantastic venue on Waddawurrung land, with amazing food, drinks, and a great atmosphere. Whether you’re bringing your instrument to jam or just want to enjoy the vibe, you’re welcome to come as you are. Grab a drink, relax, and soak in the music and creativity that fills the room.

Come along and make music, celebrate creativity, and appreciate the beauty of community. Don’t miss out on the fun—bring your instrument, your voice, or just your love of music and see what magic unfolds! 

Blank Space Newtown has opened a cozy pop-up shop space, and it’s available for use

The popular venue is now offering its charming sunroom as a pop-up shop space for entrepreneurs and creatives to display their products and engage with the community.

Blank Space Newtown:

  • Location:
  • Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 6am, Weekends 7.30am

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

 

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The cozy, welcoming environment of Blank Space provides the ideal setting to launch new products, show off your wares, or offer exclusive samples to potential customers. Located in the heart of Newtown, the space attracts high foot traffic and is known for its supportive, community-driven vibe, making it an excellent location for small businesses to thrive.

Whether you’re a local artist looking to showcase your latest pieces or a boutique owner hoping to introduce your brand to new faces, Blank Space Newtown has room for you. This pop-up shop initiative offers more than just a place to sell—it’s an opportunity to build lasting connections with customers in an intimate, creative atmosphere.

Interested in bringing your brand to life at Blank Space Newtown? Reach out via direct message for more details and availability. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of a vibrant community and make your mark in a space designed to celebrate creativity and entrepreneurship!

DM Blank Space today and let’s get your brand in front of the right audience at Blank Space Newtown!

Step into the Obscuratorium: A dark and dazzling new exhibition at Gasworks Arts Park

From 12 March 12 through to 5 April  Gasworks Arts Park will transform into a surreal space where the past meets the eerie unknown.

The exhibition, which brings together Calvert’s intricate assemblages and Earp’s atmospheric photography, takes inspiration from everything spooky, vintage, and downright bizarre. Think sideshow curiosities, ghostly storytelling, and a healthy dose of nostalgia with a macabre twist.

OBSCURATORIUM

  • Gasworks Arts Park, 21 Graham Street, Port Melbourne
  • 12 March – 5 April, 2025
  • 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
  • FREE

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

 

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At the heart of the OBSCURATORIUM are Calvert’s striking sculptures, crafted from forgotten objects. These aren’t your average relics—they’re pieces of history reimagined into hauntingly beautiful works of art. It’s all about giving new life to the things we typically discard. Her work turns the mundane into the mystical, inviting viewers to uncover stories behind each carefully assembled piece.

Meanwhile, Earp, known for his evocative photography, takes these sculptures into new territory. His work captures the delicate beauty of these found objects with an eerie, vintage flair that plays on our deepest memories and fears. Presented in antique frames, Earp’s photography makes you think twice about what’s beautiful and what’s buried in the past.

But this isn’t just another art show. Calvert and Earp are taking things to the next level with an immersive experience that’s more like a haunted house than your typical gallery. Guests will be invited to wander through the exhibition, guided by a QR code that unlocks hidden treasures within the art. What’s more, the show is designed to be a multi-sensory experience, engaging sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—perfect for those who want to get fully lost in the art and its mysteries.

 

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The opening night on promises to be a sensory overload, with a special cocktail to set the mood and props that’ll give you chills. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living, breathing art piece—somewhere between a vintage carnival and a creepy storybook. Even after the opening, the exhibition will continue to delight and disturb, encouraging guests to search for new details within the details, exploring themes of childhood, memory, and resurrection through an artistic lens of mystery and storytelling.

Kitty Calvert and Robert Earp are no strangers to reimagining beauty. Calvert’s love for all things vintage and her knack for recycling the overlooked come together in her gorgeous assemblages, while Earp’s photographic eye has won him acclaim from the National Gallery of Victoria and the commercial fashion world. Their collaboration in OBSCURATORIUM is the result of years of shared passion.

Ready for a taste of the strange? The OBSCURATORIUM exhibition opens on March 12 at Gasworks Arts Park, and it’s free to attend. So, gather your courage, and step into a world where the beauty of the broken and forgotten is reborn—just in time for the night to fall.

Esoteric Festival hit with last-minute shutdown in a ‘devastating blow’

In sad news for thousands of punters gearing up for this weekend’s Esoteric Festival, Buloke Shire Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor has refused the event’s application for a Place of Public Entertainment permit, effectively blocking the bush doof from legally taking place.

The dramatic turn comes just days after councillors voted to approve a one-year planning permit for the festival, going against their own officers’ recommendation. While that initial green light sparked celebration, the subsequent POPE-OP refusal on Tuesday has thrown the event into chaos, with officials citing a staggering 33 grounds of refusal.

Esoteric Festival

  • 6-11 March 2025 (postponed)
  • Donald, Victoria

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here

 

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“To say we are disappointed is an understatement – we are gutted. This is a devastating blow for all involved – from our patrons to the local businesses that have been planning for this all year. It is bureaucracy and politics gone mad,” says Esoteric Music Festival Managing Director Sam Goldsmith.

Organisers made a desperate eleventh-hour appeal to State Building Surveyor Steven Baxas, but their hopes were dashed when he backed the council’s decision to deny the essential permit required under the Building Act 1993.

The council’s refusal stems from “ongoing safety and compliance concerns” alongside allegations that organisers failed to adhere to conditions attached to last year’s POPE-OP – issues that mirror the original concerns raised by council officers when recommending against the planning permit.

Unlike the planning permit, which councillors voted to approve with 47 conditions attached, the POPE-OP decision is made by the Municipal Building Surveyor and cannot be overturned by elected officials – creating an unusual situation where the festival has planning permission but lacks the legal authority to operate as a place of public entertainment.

Council has now advised organisers to cancel the multi-day electronic music gathering and warned ticket holders not to attend the Donald site as the event “does not have the required approvals.”

“Since 2017 this event has been a lifeline for Victoria’s regional tourism and live music scene, injecting more than $15 million into the local economy and supporting thousands of jobs in the Wimmera Mallee region,” says Goldsmith, who reports they will now have to “postpone the festival until 2026″.

The last-minute shutdown represents a significant blow to Victoria’s festival calendar and raises questions about communication between different approval processes.

For the thousands of ticket holders who had planned accommodation, transport and time off work, the news comes as a crushing disappointment less than a week before gates were scheduled to open.

” We implore all of our patrons, please hold onto your ticket for next year so that we can continue running this event and supporting Victoria’s north-west region as we have for the past eight years and will come back even stronger in 2026,” says Goldsmith.

“Ticket holders will be communicated to directly about the postponement of the festival and offered a full refund if they can’t make the next event.”

For the latest updates, head here.

A delightful dining experience at Woolstore: Newtown’s hidden gem

From the creators of 1915 at Federal Mills, this modern Australian eatery, led by award-winning Chef Eli Grubb (crowned Regional Chef of the Year at the 2024 Golden Plate Awards), brings a refreshing and sophisticated twist to local dining.

Walking in, you’re greeted with a welcoming atmosphere full of the most lovely shades of green, green, green. Simple, sleek and full of considered style. The ground level is where the action is; an open, spacious dining room bordered by a bar and the kitchen. The upper level offers a second bar surrounded by more casual seating, overlooking the gorgeous front area views.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

 

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The space offers the perfect backdrop for a menu that celebrates the finest local ingredients through small plates and shareable meals—ideal for those who enjoy sampling and sharing everything on offer.

We began with a beautiful dish of whipped ricotta, a creamy delight paired with mortadella, olive and pistachio tapenade, and toasted Paddock bread. The ricotta’s smooth texture paired wonderfully with the savoury richness of the mortadella, while the pistachio tapenade added a delish crunch that brought the dish to life. Each bite was an indulgent, balanced experience that set the tone for the meal ahead.

Next, the stracciatella cheese—an absolute must-order for cheese lovers. Served with charred heirloom tomatoes and a mustard fruit dressing, it was a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. The creamy, milky texture of the stracciatella was complemented by the smoky sweetness of the tomatoes and the zesty, slightly tangy mustard fruit dressing.

For something a little more indulgent, the pakora zucchini flowers with cashew cream stuffing and raita were a standout. The crispy pakora coating was perfectly fried, giving way to a delicate stuffing that was rich but not overwhelming. The raita provided a cooling contrast, adding a refreshing touch to the dish that made it all the more enjoyable.

The final main event was the pan-seared Humpty Doo barramundi, served with buttered leeks, caviar beurre blanc, and parsley split sauce. The barramundi was perfectly cooked, with a delicate crispness on the outside and a tender, flaky interior. The buttered leeks added a silky texture, and the caviar beurre blanc elevated the fish to another level of luxury. The parsley split sauce brought everything together, offering a fresh, herbaceous finish to each bite.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick drink after a stroll by the river or a leisurely meal with loved ones, Woolstore provides the perfect setting and menu to make any occasion special. Chef Eli Grubb’s modern Australian approach shines through in every dish, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and bold flavours that leave a lasting impression. Woolstore is not just a place to eat—it’s a destination to experience, connect, and savour the best of what the region has to offer.

Woolstore is open daily for lunch, dinner, and drinks, located at 400 Pakington Street, Newtown (enter via Rutland Street). 

Meatmaiden to host Australia’s first ever Rare Tour event – A steak lover’s dream come true!

In collaboration with Restaurang AG, a top-notch Swedish steakhouse ranked #9 on the 2024 World’s Best list, Meatmaiden is bringing this internationally renowned dining series to Melbourne for the very first time. The Rare Tour, which has taken the world by storm, combines world-class chefs, expert grilling techniques, and mouthwatering steak education, creating an epic culinary journey that celebrates the artistry of steak at its finest.

The Rare Tour

  • When: 29 April – 1 May
  • Where: Meatmaiden, Melbourne
  • Price: $240 per person
  • Tickets: Available now!

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

 

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Over three sizzling nights, diners will witness the magic as Meatmaiden’s bold, high-energy steakhouse style meets AG’s Scandinavian flair. Think of it as the perfect marriage of raw, unfiltered flavour and expert technique. If you’ve ever wanted to explore how two powerhouse steakhouses from opposite sides of the globe approach a perfect cut of beef, this is your chance.

The exclusive menu is nothing short of mind-blowing. You’ll be treated to rare cuts and expert pairings, starting with The Flintstone – AG’s take on a bone marrow entrée that’s sure to have you swooning. Then, get ready for a fun twist on a classic, with Meatmaiden’s Lobster Mac Cheese. And the grand finale? The 70+ day Tallow-Aged Stone Axe Wagyu Rib Eye 9+. This show-stopping main will leave you speechless, with its melt-in-your-mouth richness and depth of flavor.

Meatmaiden’s owner, Neil Hamblen, couldn’t be more pumped about the event. He says, “We’re thrilled The Rare Tour is coming to Melbourne and honoured to be the hosts for its Australian debut. They’ve been keeping an eye on us for a while and love how we push the envelope with modern steakhouse dining.”

“Like Meatmaiden, this menu is going to be a rollicking, fun experience—full of contrasting styles and energy. It’s a beautiful way for people to experience two steakhouses that share an unwavering passion for quality produce.”

Meatmaiden has earned its spot as a steakhouse legend, consistently pushing the boundaries of what steak dining can be. And if you need any more convincing, the joint has been shortlisted for the 2025 World’s 101 Best Steakhouse Restaurants list – and the final rankings will be revealed this April. No big deal, right?

Tickets for the Rare Tour are super limited, with only 500 available across the three nights. They’re going fast, so if you want in on this once-in-a-lifetime steak experience, grab yours ASAP. 

Vapors of Morphine: A legacy reimagined, a sound reborn

Known for its groundbreaking fusion of baritone saxophone, 2-string slide bass, and drums, Morphine carved out a hypnotic sound in the ‘90s that was entirely its own. With a genre-defying low rock style, the band’s music was sultry, raw, and undeniably magnetic. But when frontman Mark Sandman tragically passed away on stage in 1999, the world thought the Morphine story had ended.

But in 2008, something special happened. Vapors of Morphine, the band born from the ashes of Morphine, began to forge a new path – one that honoured the past while embracing the future.

Vapors of Morphine tour dates VIC

  • Sun 27 April 27 – Gumball Fest, Hunter Valley
  • Wed 30 April 30 – Crowbar, Sydney
  • Thurs 1 May – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
  • Fri 2 May – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine Vic
  • Sat 3 May – Vinnies Dive Bar, Gold Coast
  • Sun 4 May –  Crowbar, Brisbane
  • Tickets: grab ’em here!

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

 

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Now, as they prepare to hit the road for an exciting tour in April and May, the band, led by original Morphine saxophonist Dana Colley and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Lyons, is bringing their electrifying sound to fans across the country. With special guest Jeb Caldwell joining the stage, the performances will include hypnotic renditions of Morphine originals, along with fresh material from their latest album, Fear & Fantasy.

Their live shows are a mesmerizing blend of blues, African rhythms, and psychedelic rock – pushing boundaries while paying homage to the experimental spirit championed by Sandman. The band’s evolving sound, which includes lush textures, electric baritone sax, and the haunting two-string slide bass, ensures that the Morphine legacy is alive and well. In fact, Vapors of Morphine isn’t just a tribute to the band; it’s a natural evolution of what came before.

The latest album, Fear & Fantasy (released in 2021 via Schnitzel Records, UK), takes listeners on a journey through both the old and the new. The record recalls Morphine’s final masterpiece, The Night, while introducing fresh, haunting sounds that only Colley and Lyons could create. It’s proof that the story of Morphine isn’t over – it’s been reborn, more captivating than ever.

Contrary to popular belief, the name ‘Morphine’ was never about the drug, but rather the Greek god of dreams, Morpheus. And while Vapors of Morphine may evoke the intoxicating feeling of a powerful experience, no prescription is needed. Their music lingers long after the last note, leaving you in a dreamy haze you won’t want to escape.

The serendipitous story of how Colley and Lyons came together adds another layer of magic to the band’s narrative. Years before their paths crossed, Colley unknowingly took a photo of Lyons and his street band in New Orleans, placing it into his tour journal with a note about the band’s evocative blues sound. Fast forward a decade, and after Hurricane Katrina forced Lyons to move to Boston, the two were introduced. It was only then that they discovered they both had matching halves of the same Polaroid, a twist of fate that sparked their collaboration. Talk about a cosmic connection!

Vapors of Morphine has proven that while Morphine’s original chapter may have come to an end, its spirit continues to evolve and inspire. The band is carving out new sonic landscapes while staying true to the moody, intoxicating essence of their predecessor – and they’re doing it with an energy that makes it clear this isn’t just a trip down memory lane. It’s a new chapter in a powerful legacy.

Catch Vapors of Morphine live this April and May as they bring their hypnotic sound and electrifying performances to a stage near you. Don’t miss this chance to experience a sound reborn and a legacy reimagined.

The Gravies drop debut single ‘I’m Yours Right?’ and it’s everything you didn’t know you needed

These guys are the perfect blend of rock, folk, groove, country, and a whole lotta something good you can’t quite put your finger on. With this track, The Gravies are doing what they do best; mixing up that raw, real-life vibe with a killer sound that feels like home,

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

 

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Their sound? Oh, it’s soulful. It’s emotional. It’s got that deep groove that gets you right in the feels.

‘I’m Yours Right?’ is all about the confusion, the longing, the whole “are we doing this or what?” of relationships. You know, the stuff everyone’s felt at one point—whether you’re single, in love, or stuck in the grey area.

Dave O’Brien, lead singer, sums it up perfectly “We wanted to capture that raw, honest sense of longing in a way that feels real. This song is for anyone who’s ever questioned love, commitment, or where they stand in someone’s heart.”

A steady rhythm, gorgeous harmonies, lovestruck twangy guitar – this track is the perfect fit for a sway in your loungeroom or during the last leg of a long drive with the window down and the breeze kissing your cheek.

If you’re into music that takes you on a trip through the ups and downs of everyday life—without getting all cheesy or overly dramatic—then The Gravies is your new favourite band. Their mix of genres and honest storytelling brings you straight to the heart of the matter, and ‘I’m Yours Right?’ is the perfect intro to their sound. It’s got that grab-you-by-the-soul energy, and trust us, you won’t want to miss it.

So, get ready—because The Gravies are here to stay, and they’re making sure you feel every note. The track’s out now, so go ahead and hit play.

The Mojo Corner

The Mojo Corner are hitting their next stop at Bird Rock Jan Juc. It will be an excellent musical party and not to be forgotten. The night will be backed up with local favorite and special guest, Madeliene Cope. Standing room only. Hit the link and get your tickets now!

Moonshine and Maple Oakdene Country Hoedown

Saddle up for a good ol’ Country Hoedown at Oakdene!

It’s bound to be a rootin’ tootin’ good time with plenty of foot-stompin’ music, lively dancing, and all-around fun. Oakdene’s got that rustic charm, and the BBQ all fired up, making it the perfect spot to round up friends and family for a down-home celebration.

It’s an opportunity to slip on your Stetson or Akubra, step into your boots, bring out the tassels and holler a big ol’ yeeha! Let’s create the atmosphere, where memories are made, and everyone feels right at home. 

With a simple Country BBQ lunch and liquoring up at the saloon with drinks at bar prices, plus plenty of music to get you up and dancing this is a Hoedown you don’t want to miss.

Golden Age + Degs in Space

Two years since their last performance, Geelong’s most elusive band Golden Age plays Rebecchi’s.
Primed with hooks and enough reverb to flood Brougham St and Gordon Ave, Golden Age will play an hour set, followed by a DJ set by special guest Degs In Space. To oblivion and beyond.

“It’s quite unbelievable that we’ve made it to this point” Final 200 tickets up for grabs to experience Meadow’s last hurrah

Set to take place in the iconic Bambra Bowl on Gulidjan, Gadubanud, and Wadawurrung land, the festival promises a celebration of both local talent and international stars, including already announced Hiatus Kaiyote, Pond, MJ Lenderman & The Wind, Empress Of, Kaiit, and Floodlights.

Meadow 2025

  • When: 21 – 23 March 2025
  • Where: Bambra Bowl, 180 Bambra-Aireys Inlet Rd, Bambra, 3241
  • Tickets: On sale now!

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

 

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For the very first time Meadow is throwing open the pub doors and squeezing in a second stage. The demand was overwhelmings, the locals wanted a place to play, and thus, The Retreat Creek Hotel was born. Emerging regional talent has a tiny home at Meadow 2025.

“Unbelievable – always used in such a blasé fashion, but, there really is no better term.”

“Who would have thought that from a small stage, on the side of a delivery truck, powered by a generator paid for with $10 “donations”, in a mate’s paddock, filled with friends and friends of friends, in the thumping heart of Bambra, back in 2014…
…that we could possibly end up here. But here we are.”

Still in Bambra. One more time. Enough sentimentalism. The spectacular is soon.

With its diverse mix of regional and international artists, Meadow 2025 is set to be an unforgettable final chapter in the festival’s legacy.

Think Green, Design Bold: Enter Geelong’s We the Makers Sustainable Fashion Prize

This biennial competition celebrates bold, sustainable design from creative minds around the world—so if you’re a designer with a passion for ethical fashion, it’s time to step up.

We the Makers Sustainable Fashion Prize

  • Entries open: 1 March 2025
  • Entries close: 11 April 2025
  • Exhibition opening & awards: 13 June 2025
  • National Wool Museum Designer of the Year Award – $10,000
  • UNESCO City of Design People’s Choice Award – $2,000

 

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As Australia’s only UNESCO City of Design, Geelong has long been a leader in textiles and innovation. The National Wool Museum is dedicated to honouring the past, present, and future of fashion, while recognising Geelong’s deep roots in the wool and textile industries.

Museum Director Padraic Fisher explains the importance of this prize in shaping the Museum’s collection:

“The Museum is actively developing its already significant textile collection through acquisition programs that prioritise good design. The outfit that wins the 2025 Sustainable Fashion Prize becomes part of the National Wool Museum Collection, telling the evolving story of innovative design and sustainable fashion through the lens of emerging fashion designers.”

The competition is open to designers with fewer than 10 years of industry experience. Entrants are invited to submit one original ensemble that reflects their commitment to sustainability. Designs will be judged by an expert panel based on their innovation in materials, circular processes, design, or business practices.

Shortlisted outfits will be showcased in a special exhibition at the National Wool Museum, with the winner announced on 13 June 2025. Plus, all shortlisted designs will be in the running for the $2000 UNESCO City of Design People’s Choice Award—so the public gets to have their say, too!

This is more than just a competition—it’s a chance to be part of a global movement redefining the future of sustainable fashion, so why not put your work out there and enter now

Australia’s biggest inflatable obstacle course Tuff Nutterz is heading to Geelong for the school holidays

So, what’s the deal with Tuff Nutterz? Well, we’re talking a 300-meter-long inflatable obstacle course that’s guaranteed to have you laughing, jumping, and maybe even a little out of breath! But that’s just the start. Along with this giant course, you’ll also get to tackle two other epic inflatable games that will keep you moving all day long.

Tuff Nutterz Geelong

  • When: 5-13 April
  • Where: Geelong Showgrounds

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

 

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Here’s the best part: this event is totally family-friendly, so there’s no need to worry about age limits. Whether you’ve got little ones ready to crawl through some obstacles, or you’re a thrill-seeker who’s up for the challenge, there’s fun for everyone. Kids, adults, cousins, friends – you name it, Tuff Nutterz has something for you!

Now, let’s talk tickets – because you won’t want to miss out on the good stuff. There are two options:

  1. Full Access Ticket: Want the ultimate experience? Go for the Full Access ticket! This gives you unlimited access to the 300m obstacle course, the miniature course, and the 6-meter tall slide (wet in summer, dry in winter) during your 1 hour and 45-minute allocated time slot. That’s a whole lot of fun packed into one ticket.
  2. Obstacle Course Ticket: If you’re all about the obstacles, this ticket’s for you. You get unlimited access to the 300m obstacle course and the miniature course, also during your 1 hour and 45-minute time slot. So, if you’re keen to take on those giant inflatable challenges, this will be your playground!

So, mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and bring the whole crew to Tuff Nutterz for an action-packed, fun-filled day at the Geelong Showgrounds. Whether you’re flying solo or making it a family affair, it’s going to be a blast – see you there!

What’s on at Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat this month

From glittering musicals to magical mind tricks, orchestral masterpieces, and rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a rundown of what’s coming up:

Kinky Boots
Presented by Ballarat Lyric Theatre
March 6-9, 2025
Thursday and Friday: 7:30 PM
Saturday: 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Sunday: 1:30 PM

Tickets: Here!

Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Kinky Boots is a show you don’t want to miss! With a heartwarming story about acceptance, Kinky Boots follows Charlie Price, who inherits a struggling shoe factory and finds salvation in the form of Lola, a fabulous drag queen who inspires him to turn the factory’s fortunes around. Featuring an uplifting score by Cyndi Lauper and a hilarious script by Harvey Fierstein, this musical is an unforgettable celebration of individuality and friendship.

 

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Suhani Shah: Spellbound
March 14, 2025

Tickets: Here!

World-renowned mentalist Suhani Shah is bringing her smash-hit show Spellbound to Ballarat for the first time! With over four million YouTube subscribers, Suhani has been captivating audiences worldwide with her mind-reading skills and uncanny ability to understand human behaviour. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic and wonder that has wowed millions.

 

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James Ehnes: The Heart of the Violin
March 21, 2025

Tickets: Here!

Join James Ehnes, one of today’s most celebrated violinists, as he leads musicians from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in a stunning all-strings program. Featuring works by Mozart, Dvořák, and Jessie Montgomery, this concert will take you on a journey through the heart of the violin, blending classical elegance with contemporary flair.

 

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Sarah Blasko
March 22, 2025

Tickets: Here!

Sarah Blasko is back on the road with her seventh solo album, I Just Need To Conquer This Mountain. The album explores themes of grief, acceptance, and new beginnings, and Sarah’s distinctive voice and emotive songwriting promise a powerful performance. Don’t miss her first regional tour since 2017!

Shake Rattle ‘N’ Roll
March 27, 2025

Tickets: Here!

Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll with Shake Rattle ‘N’ Roll! This high-energy performance celebrates the classic hits of the ’50s and ’60s, with sizzling choreography, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable tunes like Jailhouse Rock, Grease Lightning, and Twistin’ The Night Away. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and there’s even a chance to meet the cast after the show!

 

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Ziggy Alberts (At Civic Hall) 
March 27, 2025

Tickets: Here!

Independent singer-songwriter Ziggy Alberts is bringing his New Love Tour to Ballarat! Following the release of his highly anticipated seventh studio album, New Love, Ziggy is set to captivate audiences with his heartfelt music. This is a special opportunity to catch Ziggy live as he celebrates his first full-length regional tour since 2019.

An Evening with Richard Chew for World Piano Day
29 March 7pm

SOLD OUT

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and join us for an intimate evening of solo piano music by the esteemed composer and pianist Richard Chew. Piano Day, celebrated globally on 29 March —the 88th day of the year, symbolizing the 88 keys on a standard modern piano—marks its 10th anniversary in 2025. What better way to celebrate than by immersing yourself in the soothing sounds of Her Majesty’s Steinway Model D grand piano?

As an extra special treat, there is a limited ticket allocation to sit on the stage with Richard Chew as he plays. Numbers are strictly limited, so reserve your place on the stage now.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
March 29, 2025

Tickets: Here!

Brought to life with 75 adorable puppets, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is a theatrical adaptation of Eric Carle’s beloved children’s stories. Perfect for little ones aged 18 months and up, this show features four of Carle’s classic tales, including Brown Bear, Brown Bear, The Very Busy Spider, and, of course, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. It’s a magical experience for families, packed with colour, movement, and fun.

Secure your tickets now and don’t miss out on these incredible performances at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Ballarat. From sensational musicals and world-class orchestral performances to mind-blowing magic and nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll, there’s something for everyone this March!

Suhani Shah: The world’s most subscribed mentalist brings her spellbinding show to Her Maj’s Ballarat

With over four million subscribers on YouTube and two million followers on Instagram, Suhani has taken the world by storm with her mind-blowing performances.

Spellbound 

  • When: Friday 14 March
  • Tickets: Get ’em here!

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

 

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A seasoned performer, Suhani’s journey began at just seven years old, when she first stepped onto the stage. Over the past two decades, she has perfected her craft, performing more than 5000 shows and earning her place as a certified superstar in the magic industry. Her remarkable ability to read minds and manipulate human behavior has earned her a loyal fan base, as well as the admiration of some of the biggest names in entertainment and sport.

Following sell-out performances at prestigious events such as the Edinburgh Fringe and RISING Festival in 2024, Suhani is now bringing SPELLBOUND to Her Majesty’s Ballarat for the first time. The show promises to leave audiences in awe as Suhani weaves her magic, skillfully blending charm, mind reading, and an in-depth understanding of human psychology.

Get ready to let go of logic and be transported into a world where the impossible becomes possible. Suhani’s show is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, with mind-bending moments and a truly unforgettable experience.

Tickets for SPELLBOUND are expected to sell out quickly, so don’t miss the chance to see the world’s most subscribed mentalist live in action. Let Suhani Shah take you on a spellbinding journey.