The Snowy River Country Music Festival will return to Orbost next month, with organisers expanding the event as it enters its second year.
The festival, presented by the Orbost Club Hotel and Serendipity Music Events, will be held on Saturday, May 16 from 6.30pm, with this year’s event moving outdoors to a larger space behind the venue’s former bottle shop.
Organisers say the new format will allow for a bigger stage production and a broader festival atmosphere, including live music, food options and themed activities.
Four Gippsland country acts are set to perform, including Three Chain Road,
Harry Hook, Joe Blake and the Cut Snakes, and Tegan Blackstock, who will open the evening.
In addition to live performances, the event will feature pub meals, a food van, DJs and a country-themed best dressed competition.
The inaugural festival attracted a crowd of 350 people and sold out, drawing visitors from across the region and interstate, with organisers noting a positive economic impact for the town.
Event organiser Olivia Lay said continued support for live music in regional areas was important.
“It’s a tough climate for live music and it means a lot that venues like the Orbost Club Hotel continue to support and grow the local music scene,” she said.
To improve accessibility, organisers have increased ticket availability this year and reduced prices. A return bus service will also operate from Bairnsdale, Bruthen and Nowa Nowa.
Tickets are now available through online booking platforms and the event’s social media pages.
