Griffith got its 'groove' on at Griffith's first Groove & Graze Music Festival held on Saturday 18 March! National and local bands took to the stage in front of more than 900 attendees at the Burley Griffin Community Gardens to celebrate Griffith's newest one-day music & food festival.
Made possible through the NSW Government's Reconnecting Regional NSW - Community Events Program and Griffith City Council, Griffith Groove & Graze Music Festival was a great day out for the entire family.
Event curator, Pristine Productions, created a fantastic line up featuring Reece Mastin and Mahalia Barnes and The Soulmates, as well as local performances by Lolohea Brothers, Fates Babies, DJ Lady Barber and the Griffith Musicians Club.
Much loved Australian actor, comedian and musician, Marty Fields was Emcee for the evening, keeping the crowd entertained between sets.
Kids were kept busy thanks to Tambourine Art Studio, Dizzy Dilemma and Entertainment Galore, while the unWINED Bar and Peeches Coffee Van kept everyone hydrated while 'groovers' had plenty of choices to graze on with OMG Decadent Donuts, Mrs Whippy ice cream, Riverina Cartel Kebab, Reggie's Hospitality and Joze Pizza.
Headline act, Reece Mastin captivated the crowd, while Mahalia Barnes and the Soulmates belted out some classic tunes, getting everyone involved. The night ended with a bang thanks to Griffs Fireworks, who lit up the sky with an incredible display, a fitting end to what was an awesome event.
Griffith Mayor Doug Curran said Griffith Groove and Graze was an evening we won't soon forget.
"The NSW Government is pleased to support the delivery of community events and festivals that are open for the entire community to attend, providing positive social and economic outcomes for regional communities – this created an opportunity for us to create a new music festival and Griffith Groove and Graze was born," he said.
"It's great to see this event so well supported by the community and witnessing everyone get behind the national and local performers – it was such an incredible family friendly event and I hope we can do it all again in the future."
Mark Macedone from Pristine Productions said it was wonderful to see so many families with young kids come along and enjoy the family friendly event.
"The atmosphere was electric, and I am so proud to have been part of an event which brought together local and national acts on the incredible Stuart McWilliam Stage," he said.
Feedback from the night was overwhelmingly positive with attendees congratulating the organisers, and requesting more events like this be organised in Griffith.
Reece Mastin commented "What a vibe! Thanks for having us guys, we will see you again very soon," while Mahalia Barnes and the Soul Mates stated "Thank you so much for having us! Was a wonderful day to be part of! We hope to get back to the area sooner rather than later."
Council would like to thank everyone who attended for their support, and looks forward to hosting future events.
