Latest news with #QueenscliffMusicFestival
ABC News
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
The Cat Empire, Thelma Plum head up Queenscliff Music Festival 2025 line-up
Each year in November, music lovers of all ages flock to the Bellarine Peninsula for a weekend away. Their destination? Queenscliff Music Festival — the beachside Victorian event beloved for its family-friendly atmosphere and ripper line-ups. This year is no exception, featuring Australian faves alongside a a dash of overseas acts and up-and-comers. Let's take a peep, shall we? Do you really need to be told why The Cat Empire remain one of our country's must-see live bands? The headliners are certain to delight all sorts when their genre-fusing, party-facing ruckus takes over the main stage, celebrating their tenth album, Bird In Paradise. Gamilaraay singer-songwriter Thelma Plum has been touring solidly behind her latest album I'm Sorry, Now Say It Back . And we'll let you in on a secret: her world-class tunes sound even better on the live stage. Is there a better beach-y fit than US surfer turned professional strummer, Donavon Frankenreiter? He began his music career with a self-titled debut released under Jack Johnson's Brushfire Records, and like his good buddy Johnson, Frankenreiter excels at simple, soulful sing-alongs. Yolŋu rock sensation King Stingray seem incapable of delivering a limp performance, so be sure to fit their life-affirming anthems into your viewing schedule. Also in the mix is two Western Australian legends: homegrown folk heroes The Waifs and alt-rockers Little Birdy (who are touring their 2004 debut album later this year). Punk rock institution Cosmic Psychos will be QMF's resident mosh pit inspectors this year, while Minor Gold will flex the golden harmonies that have made them Double J faves. If you're after a boogie, the cosmic Squid Nebula, talented Sex On Toast or soul-funksters Suneden will be happy to supply. You've also got stomping siblings Pierce Brothers, close collaborators Didirri + Rowena Wise, the swampy blues of Opelousas, plus Fenn Wilson & The Weather. The little tackers will go gaga for Teeny Tiny Stevies, heading up QMF's stage dedicated to kids programming. And if all that wasn't enough for you, know there's more names to be added to the 2025 line-up, rounded out by local produce, arts, and community offerings. The three-day extravaganza takes over Princess Park, a short stroll from the historic Queenscliff Foreshore, with its gorgeous piers, cliff views and coastal walks. Plus, there's camping nearby if you prefer the outdoors. Queenscliff Music Festival runs from Friday 28 to Sunday 29 November on the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung people, proudly co-presented by Double J. Here's the line-up so far: The Cat Empire, Thelma Plum, Donvan Frankenreiter, The Waifs, King Stingray, Little Birdy, Cosmic Psychos, Pierce Brothers, Didirri + Rowena Wise, Squid Nebula, Minor Gold, Sex On Toast, Opelousas, Fenn Wilson & The Weather, The Smith & Western Jury, Riley Catherall, Suneden, Teeny Tiny Stevies Early bird tickets are on sale now.
The Age
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Age
How to stretch your stay in Geelong and the Bellarine — and why you'd want to
The cooler weather may have arrived at Portarlington, but the upcoming National Celtic Folk Festival is sure to heat things up. Over the June long weekend, the charming seaside town will come alive with music, markets, session bars and warming open fires in celebration of all things Celtic. The annual event brings an energy like no other — and it's just one of many reasons to visit Geelong and the Bellarine this winter. For the epicureans, the Tastes of Greater Geelong festival will showcase the very best of the region's hospitality scene. The month-long event, which runs from June 20 to July 20, will see venues throughout Greater Geelong excite your tastebuds with special menus, bespoke tasting trails and pop-up restaurants. Come August 30, art enthusiasts will want to make their way to the esteemed Geelong Gallery, which will play host to the Archibald Prize 2025 exhibition until November 9. If music by the sea is more your vibe, head a little further south to the Queenscliff Music Festival. Taking place over three days from November 28 to November 30, this beloved coastal event will transform the Bellarine into a thriving hub of live gigs, local food and family friendly fun. Whether you're in town for the culture or the coast, one thing's for sure — you won't want to simply pass through. From the buzzing cityscapes to the unforgettable scenery, Geelong and the Bellarine offer plenty of ways to turn your day trip into a full-blown escape. Here's how. Flavours worth travelling for An easy hour's drive southwest from Melbourne, Geelong and the Bellarine are home to some of the best dining experiences in the country. You'll need more than a day to sample the goods, but you can make a decent start in Little Malop Street thanks to its treasure trove of laidback cafes, bustling bars and top-notch brunch spots. Get your caffeine fix from Cartel Coffee Roasters, stock up on fresh pastries and wood-fired sourdough at Paddock Bakery, then indulge in some pre-dinner tipples on the leafy rooftop at The Arborist.
