A new event is looking to unite communities across Loddon Shire and challenge stereotypes about what makes an arts festival successful.

Loddon Valley Arts, which has grown from the region’s Arts Trail, will create a network of 30 venues across the shire to host exhibitions and events.

Volunteer co-ordinator Rosemary Sorensen said the event played to the region’s strengths, turning its unique, pre-existing venues into galleries.

“We’re using memorial halls in Calivil, Boort, Dingee and Bridgewater, and the very special War Memorial School in Mysia,” she said.

“When history meets creativity like this, the result is very exciting.”

Communities have gotten behind the festival, which will include workshops in print making, painting, sketching and straw plaiting alongside art shows.

Loddon Shire Mayor Dan Straub said the festival was a wonderful example of how community collaboration could achieve a shared vision.

“We often say Loddon Shire is really a community of communities, but they have all got together to make this arts festival a success,” he said.

“That also translates into a major economic boost for our communities, with the number of visitors from outside the region here and travelling around for the weekend.”

The program is set to bloom this spring, running from October 3 to 5, with more information available by visiting loddonvalleyartstrail.com.au

Riverine Herald Google News Panels

Monday, 24th April 2023

Your Afternoon Headlines

Publish Panels