April 30th, 2024Creswick’s third CresFest was a winner

As other music festivals around the country flounder, CresFest is flourishing, as was realised by the
thousands of visitors who earlier this month flocked to the festival.

CresFest Director Judy Turner says the atmosphere in Creswick was absolutely terrific for the event
held over April 5-7.

“We had overseas, national and local musicians, visitors from interstate and throughout Victoria
and, importantly, we enjoyed the support of the local community who, in increasing numbers, are
seeing both the economic and social benefit of Creswick hosting this music festival,” Judy said.

Alongside ticketed concerts in the heritage buildings, there were free events with Albert Street
coming alive with magicians, buskers, street musicians, choirs and street bands.

Judy said that what sets CresFest apart from other festivals is the interaction between musicians,
audience and volunteers.

“In intimate venues, with respectful and relaxed performances, time and again musicians and ticketholders would remark on the friendliness of the volunteers who were always willing to stop,
listen and lend a hand,” she said.

“Over 130 volunteers offered their knowledge and time to make sure CresFest will continue to be
recognised as one of the most approachable festivals in the country.”

This year’s program reflected the outcome of a survey conducted at the conclusion of CresFest23:
greater diversity of musical genres, more free events and activities specifically for kids.

Planning for CresFest25 (April 4-6) is set to begin as soon as feedback has been collected from all the
key stakeholders including local businesses, musicians, ticketholders and volunteers – but already
the signs are looking strong for the future of this local festival.

Words: Fiona Watson. Images: Supplied