Message from the Artistic Director

Dear WWAF Supporter

On behalf of the Festival Committee, I am excited to bring to you the 19^th Woodend Winter Arts Festival in our 21^st year of operations. This year we will present over 100 performers and speakers within our 4-day Festival.

Programming in a busy and noisy world presents challenges, but we are always in search of excellence, originality and authenticity. Whilst we remain a classical music festival with Baroque at our soft-centred core, this year we have extended our Words and Ideas program to include science and music discussions.

Educational opportunities via our incursion program for Primary and Secondary students extend their musical experiences. We have been quietly doing this on the side for close to two decades now. I particularly thank Russell Deer and Braemar College for being a loyal supporter of these activities (and much more!)  

This year’s Fireworks will once again be to synchronised classical music, and will feature talented student performances amongst the pre-Fireworks entertainment. Local group, the Woodend Warblers, will also perform at the Fireworks.

Despite downward trends of other festivals, WWAF is selling wonderfully well at pre-pandemic levels, so don’t leave your tickets to the last moment — and the same goes for accommodation. I thank Islay House for sponsorship and recommend this stunningly-renovated building, recently opened in the heart of Woodend, for your weekend accommodation needs. I also thank Holgate Brewhouse for their accommodation support — their rooms will sell out especially fast.

As ever, I am indebted to our Committee and volunteers who work with me all year round to make this celebration happen.

Yours in service of the Arts,

Jacqueline Ogeil

The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is a registered charity. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Donate here or visit our website for more information on how to donate.