Council gives free use of park for festival

Promoters of a commercially run music festival in Drouin’s Civic Park next month will not be charged by Baw Baw Shire council to lock up a substantial part of the park for the event.

In response to questions from The Gazette, a council spokesperson said the shire and organisers of the Live at the Park festival had entered a sponsorship agreement that includes “in-kind” and financial support.

Council allocated $30,000 to deliver the music festival and other major events through its Economic Development and Visitor Economy Strategy to “generate a positive economic impact for business and the community”.

The area to accommodate those attending will be fenced off, however council has previously stated access to areas in Civic Park such as the playground, skate park and toilets will remain open to the public.

The festival that will present some of Australia’s best known artists and bands will be held on Saturday, November 26, clashing with the state election that will bring additional traffic into the town.

The council spokesperson said a traffic management plan for nearby areas including Young

St, one of the main vehicle accesses to Drouin’s shopping area forms one boundary of the park, would come into force on the day prior to the festival and continue until the following Monday, November 28.

On its website promoting and explaining details of the event that will go ahead “rain, hail or shine” the organisers point out that those attending must remain on site throughout with no “pass outs” available.

Food trucks, stalls and drink outlets, including alcohol, will be located within the venue.

No bring-your-own food and drink - alcoholic, water or soft drinks - will be allowed.

Reusable crockery sets costing $10 can be ordered when people buy tickets online.

Music performances will start at 3pm and continue through until about 10pm.

Live at the Park is promoted as an all ages event with admission charges ranging from $10 for those aged five years and under, $39 for six to 17 year-olds and from $79-$89 for adults plus booking fees.

Council said any closures or changes to using the park and traffic management measures will be communicated to nearby residents and the broader community in the lead up to the festival.