As we ease out of summer - a summer that has seen a range of different musical events return to the artistic calendar or emerge for the first time - there is still yet so much on offer for the season of autumn.
A season where things slow down, routines return, and we prepare for the darkness of winter. What better place to not get to ahead of ourselves, and rather cherish the remaining days of warmth and sunshine and the cool breezes that this time of year has to offer, than the alpine region of Victoria for a festival of fun and entertainment.
The inaugural Picnic in the Paddock day festival, hosted by Bright Brewery in their picturesque adjacent paddock, was a hit in 2022. Kim Churchill and his infectious on-stage presence headlined the afternoon’s festivities that spilled well into the evening. This year the one-day festival is back with an all Victorian, all-star lineup that will soundtrack summer’s transition, as natural as the shifting colour of the leaves.
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Located on the idyllic banks of the Ovens River in Victoria’s high country, the location at Bright Brewery is the optimal destination for an afternoon spent with loved ones reveling in the musical serenades.
Spanning from 4-10pm on Saturday March 18, the day party will be headlined by folk duo Little Georgia, whose stunning ballads will provide a splendid accompaniment to the mountainous backdrop of the Victorian town. They are currently touring their new single Dressed in Gold, around Australia and will be bringing their much-loved and distinctive discography of folk-rock to the paddock for your listening pleasure.
The rest of the lineup boasts the formidable likes of Anna Smyrk and her ascending style of song composition. Described by Rolling Stone as possessing a ‘truly astonishing’ voice, her indie-rock anthems will provide a terrific enhancement to the day’s music. Rounding out the rest of the bill and complementing Smyrk for the day’s festivities will be the uplifting and feel-good duet of Sunday Lemonade; heavily inspired by musicians such as City & Color, The Used and Missy Higgins. Also featured on the bill is Benny Williams and his crooning vocals, and the wandering and evocative storytelling of Matt Sier.
An afternoon that will be richly filled with fun and enjoyment, Party in the Paddock will truly be an extension of summer.
As was the case last year, festival-goers can expect to have Bright Brewery’s selection of beer available to purchase with some of the crowd favourites, Alpine Lager and Bright Pale Ale, on offer. What’s more, the seasonal beers that exist in high rotation will be available to purchase as well, better known as the backcountry limited-releases. This year’s hits may include The Orchard NEIPA, and Fred’s Feijoa, Orange and Guava IPA.
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Also joining in on the alcohol offerings this year are local legends Reed & Co Distillery, Backwoods Distilling and Billy Button Wines, who all operate and have made a name for themselves locally.
In line with the diverse selection of refreshing drinks, there will be a range of pop-up food options, curated specifically to lean into the idea of this festival being a picnic-oriented day out. The food will be grazing style to suit, but food that is packed and brought by punters will be welcomed and permitted, although BYO alcohol won’t be (not that you’d want to with this range).
Picnic in the Paddock maintains a relaxed festival vibe, designed to cater for a broad range of demographics including families of all ages and configurations. It’s no surprise given Bright Brewery always prioritise their commitment to showcasing local drinks and produce businesses.
Early-bird tickets are still available for those interested in locking in their plans for March 18.
So, with the picturesque scenery as an accompaniment and the pristine mountain air of Victoria’s alpine region providing the atmosphere, bring your most comfortable camping chair, lay out your picnic rug, spread out the snacks and tasty treats, recline into the ubiquitous comfort and relax and enjoy an afternoon and evening of live music on the banks of the Ovens River.
Bright Brewery’s Picnic in the Paddock is on March 18. Grab tickets here while they last!
This article was made in partnership with Bright Brewery.
