The 2023 River Daze festival thrilled attendees with talented musicians, great food and reasonable prices.

“It’s such an intimate setting to have over 1,000 people in here, the river in the background and a family friendly atmosphere,” said Paul, who had travelled from Melbourne for the event.

“It’s just so friendly, everything is close by and they’re not trying to gouge you for drinks.”

River Daze is in its sixth year and the festival has continued to attract attendees from far and wide, and bring economic stimulus to the twin towns. This year’s entertainment included Thea McLoughlan, All Out 80s, The Chantoozies, Reece Mastin and Chocolate Starfish.

Faye Ashwin, River Daze organiser, couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

“Everything flowed really smoothly, the bands were great.

“There was a great atmosphere amongst the crowd to the bands, the different performers actually commented on just how friendly people were, and how warm they were.”

Around 1,200 adults and children attended the festival, children’s tickets only cost $1. 

“I love that the kids activities were really engaging till dark and then after dark, they played chasey and kids games everywhere, I just thought that was really special,” said Faye.

“The parents could relax knowing the kids were safe in the boundaries of the fence perimeter and they couldn’t get out the front gate.”

All the children’s activities were free thanks to funding provided through Murray River Council. These included a jumping castle, face painting, entertainers who juggled, rode unicycles, created a myriad of bubbles and sent off rocket balloons high into the air. 

The Barham High School P. & C. manned the gate this year and sold tickets in a raffle for a guitar signed by all the performers. Proceeds from the ticket sales from the raffles went to the B.H.S. P. & C., the efforts of parents, teachers and students were well rewarded with $2,500 raised.

A great selection of food and beverages was available, with vendors cooking well into the evening. 

Security reported an excellent crowd with zero incidents, the onsite medical staff had to call an ambulance for one punter who suffered a medical episode. 

Events like River Daze are not possible without the support of the many volunteers and sponsors. Over 30 businesses and both the Murray River Council and Gannawarra Shire Council assisted with making the event possible. Colin Barnes worked tirelessly to ensure all the cans and bottles from the event went on to raise funds for the local Scout Club. 

Proceeds from the event will form the seed capital for next year!

See all the pictures in the issue.

This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 9 March 2023.