Hepburn Shire, a destination over winter

Published on 07 June 2023

Borealis Lake Daylesford 2022

The spa country of Hepburn Shire will be high on the list of destinations throughout winter with a return of a range of events enticing visitors to the Shire throughout the cooler months.

BOREALIS, the captivating light show and immersive experience, will return to Lake Daylesford from 20 July with sessions every Thursday to Sunday evening until October.

“BOREALIS delivered significant economic benefit to our Shire last year, with more than 35,000 people attending across the season,” said Mayor of Hepburn Shire, Cr Brian Hood.

“It is estimated this brought an economic benefit of more than $6 million to our Shire, which was incredibly welcome as the economy sought to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said. 

BOREALIS is presented by Andrew Kay and Associates, in partnership with Gluttony, supported by the Victorian Government, Council and Daylesford Macedon Tourism. Andrew Kay acknowledged the support of the many organisations working together for a second season.  

“We acknowledge and appreciate the support of Hepburn Shire Council and Daylesford Macedon Tourism in facilitating the return of Borealis to Lake Daylesford. The magic and awe of Borealis is elevated in darkness and surrounded by nature. With its own unique natural beauty, we couldn’t think of a more perfect setting than Lake Daylesford to recreate this spectacular effect,” said Andrew Kay AM.

“Add to the mix, Daylesford’s progressive dining scene, multiple wellness experiences and its amazing collection of quality accommodation offerings, and you have all the ingredients for a truly magical weekend away,” he said.

Tickets are available at https://borealisau.com/

Winter Sounds is also returning to Hepburn Shire from 17 to 20 August. After completely selling out last year Winter Sounds 2023 will see performances by artists, including Tex Perkins, Jen Cloher, Adalita, Mo'Ju, Gareth Liddiard and many more, take place within the historic churches, grand town halls and villages of Dja Dja Wurrung country.

This year the program will include an event at the Clunes Town Hall. Tickets are on sale at https://www.wintersounds.com.au/.   

Words in Winter, an annual literary and arts festival, is also returning across the region and the program is set to be released shortly. This will take place from 25 to 27 August. Keep an eye on https://wordsinwinter.com/ for the 2023 program.   

Cr Brian Hood said that events like these help contribute to making the Shire a wonderful place to live and visit.

“These events build community spirit and are so important for our local businesses and community, particularly over the cooler winter months,” said Cr Hood. 

“We encourage visitors to stay for the weekend and experience a feast of art and culture, explore the many offerings around the region or simply relax,” he said.

“Hepburn Shire really is the premier regional Victoria events destination. We look forward to welcoming visitors throughout winter and beyond.”

 

Image: BOREALIS at Lake Daylesford. Photo by Michelle Tibor.