The plans for the first Wingham Akoostik Festival were laid in 2006 when Marcia Bourke and Janeece Irving thought a music festival for the town was a good way to bring visitors to Wingham.

They invited Kevin Ballard to join them on this idea and they then also invited James Law and Sandra Babekuhl to the group to form the first committee.

The first Akoostik was held in 2007 in Central Park.

“It was an opportunity to promote the talented local artists of the Manning Valley eager to play their original music compositions,” said festival coordinator Donna Ballard who has  been involved since 2007 when “some administration skills were required.”

Today a committee of eight volunteers are assisted by more than 100 other volunteers who help out over the festival weekend each October.

“We are particularly grateful to Caron Watkins of Manning Valley Neighbourhood  Services who has auspiced our event from the very beginning,” said Donna.

Akoostik has grown to become three “brilliant days of music in the spectacular Manning Valley.”

This advertising feature is sponsored by the following businesses. Click the link to learn more:

The organisers have created a relaxed and friendly festival vibe which attracts a growing following.

”It’s is not too crowded, families feel safe and good things happen,” said Donna.

“We are creating a vibrant local community where music, art and culture take centre stage and locals are engaged in delivering the event and showcasing all the unique creative elements of this valley.

“The happiness that is created on the weekend inspires us year after year!

“We can’t thank Wingham enough for supporting the festival for over 10 years, we hope we can deliver another 10 years.”

It is the close knit ties that form in our small town that Donna says she enjoys the most about working in Wingham.

Also the capacity that people have for volunteering their support in so many different ways.

“We really have a  family of volunteers that meet up every October and bring the whole event to life for everyone’s enjoyment.”

As the festival moves forward an ongoing commitment of the committee is of being waste conscious. 

“No one wants to be part of an event that leaves a scar on the environment or creates a massive amount of waste for landfill,” admits Donna.

“This year we are really focusing on this and working closely with recyclers, ensuring we recycle as much of our waste into other areas.” 

Find Wingham Akoostik Festival on Facebook or visit the website www.akoostik.com.au.

The 2017 Wingham Akoostik Festival will be held at Wingham Showgrounds from October 13-15. Tickets are on sale now.