Lisa Chesters (Bendigo, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm pleased to stand today to congratulate the Maldon Folk Festival, which celebrated its 50th festival this weekend just been. To Pam and the amazing team of volunteers: congratulations on a fantastic festival, it being the 50th.

Recently the group received a $3,000 federal government volunteer grant towards putting on this year's festival. This funding went towards IT equipment as well as other needs for volunteers.

For those who haven't been to Maldon during the Maldon Folk Festival, it is one of those weekends when this town becomes alive. In every community space there is a group performing. This year the headline acts included the Bushwackers, Gina Jeffreys and Claymore, not to mention a little bit of folk, blues, jazz and Celtic. It's a festival that the whole family can be involved in. My children particularly love the circus element, the bush dancing opportunities and, of course, the face-painting. When you walk through the town you're greeted by street performers. It's a great opportunity for local small businesses and cafes, which are bustling, as well as the many country pubs.

These festivals thrive in regional Victoria, and it is the season for it. That's why I'm also proud that our government is sponsoring and supporting so many festivals through Regional Arts Victoria and through the festivals stream. Congratulations once again to all involved in the Maldon Folk Festival.