Review by Stuart Blythe and Rachel Pope
Nestled in bushland within the beautiful setting of Belford in the Hunter Valley, The Gum Ball festival was held over the weekend of April 27th-29th.
Touted as a laid back family friendly, BYO musical camping experience, Gum Ball certainly delivered. From the moment you arrive there is an immediate positive feeling, a relaxed sense of self and an anticipation of good times ahead. The serenity of the surroundings, the diverse age group and the family friendly feel was both complementing and comforting.
Friday night kicked off in spectacular fashion with The Joe Kings, Front End Loader, Massy Ferguson, Two River Blues and The Tongue taking the stage with The Bakery closing out the night. For those who wanted to kick on there was also the Silent Disco. The entire night set a high standard for the day ahead.
There was plenty to do on the Saturday with the circus, the pirate ship and markets to keep both children and adults thoroughly entertained. The event enabled festival goers to camp within close proximity to the stages and thoroughly immerse themselves within the cheerful culture. The incorporation of workshops encouraged event goers to participate and explore their interests and talents creatively. Kudos to the staff who were so friendly and helpful!
The line up for Saturday was nothing short of fantastic; Perch Creek Family Jug Band, Custard, Jinja Safari, Ash Grunwald… to name a few; with a special mention to The Delta Rigs, Clairy Browne and the Bangin’ Rackettes for providing great and unique entertainment.
Overall the festival was a huge success, providing a music event where everyone was content and fully immersed within musical culture… can’t wait for the next one!
Artist: The 2012 Line Up Included Custard, Jinja Safari, Ash Grunwald Feat Vika &Linda Bull, Mat Mchugh (The Beautiful Girls) , Wagons/Sietta, Kim Churchill, Fire! Santa Rosa Fire!, The Bakery, Front End Loader, The Tongue, Clairy Browne & The Bangin’ Rackettes, Massy Ferguson (USA), The Joe Kings, The Delta Riggs, Perch Creek Family Jug Band & More
Event: THE GUM BALL
Date: 27-28th April 2012
Proudly supporting The Black Dog Institute – raising mental health awareness
Review by Stuart Blythe and Rachel Pope
Photos by Amy Lee Freshwater
