Council joining the party this weekend at the annual ChillOut Festival

Published on 05 March 2025

Hepburn Shire Council has been counting down the days to this year’s ChillOut Festival, Australia’s premier regional LGBTQIA+ event.

For 28 years, the ChillOut Festival has brightened up the streets of Daylesford and created a hive of activity for visitors near and far to enjoy. The event is held annually over the Labour Day long weekend in March and there’s no shortage of events and activities for the young, and the young at heart, to enjoy.  

From the street parade to events in the big top, ChillOut is hosting many events across the weekend, view the full program on the ChillOut Festival website.

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said the Festival is a testament to the vibrant and diverse community that it represents and is a welcoming space for all to enjoy.

 “We are proud to once again be a major sponsor of this important event that attracts visitors from all over Victoria and beyond. It is an opportunity to celebrate our rich and diverse LGBTQIA+ culture in a safe and inclusive way,” said Cr Don Henderson.

“Our Works team has been preparing our towns for the thousands of visitors we are expecting to see to ensure they are in tiptop shape. Our planter boxes have been spruced and even our begonias are blooming at Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens for all to see and enjoy,” said Cr Don Hendeson.

The iconic ChillOut Street Parade will once again play host to floats from local businesses, schools, organisations, supporters, sponsors and of course, Council.