Spring Migration hits snowfields

Spring Migration will be more like snow migration this year as the festival heads to Victoria’s ski fields in a bid to expand the event.

Taking in a whirlwind tour of the state’s stunning north-east alpine district, Spring Migration will kick off in the Falls Creek snowfields, before heading to Lake Hume and Beechworth, winding up in the festival’s birthplace, Yackandandah.

The festival has been running for five years. Previously a three-day event, it will be extended to nine days this year.

Organiser Gary Hayward said he wants to keep the festival format interesting, as well as host an extended time to celebrate landmark changes to Australian laws which now recognise gay and lesbian couples for the first time in the country’s history.

This time we’re starting at the top of the mountain and heading down. There were some historic changes last year and we want to celebrate them, Hayward told the Sydney Star Observer.

He expects a diverse crowd and with snowfields on the agenda said the festival program provides activities for families as well as singles and couples.

Some people will drop in for the weekend events, but others, like those who work in hospitality and don’t get weekends, will be able to come for the weekday events.

Families can also join in. There are plenty of child care facilities on the mountain and kids can mix with other rainbow families.

Spring Migration will kick off August 28 with a carnival weekend on the Falls Creek slopes among winter’s last drop of snow. A Masquerade Ball is scheduled on the Saturday night.

The party moves to Lake Hume Resort, in parkland on the banks of Lake Hume, with a cocktail party, fashion show and disco planned.

The fashion show is seeking gay and lesbian designers to take part to provide a platform for up-and-coming designers.

Other events scattered throughout the nine days include a raunchy ranch party, spring sport events and winery tours with other events to be announced.

The Unite the Clans full moon dance party will be held at La Trobe, Beechworth on the final Saturday, September 5, with a tartan theme.

The traditional Father’s Day Sunday market will close the festival and will be hosted by the Yackandandah Country Fire Brigade.

info: Spring Migration runs August 28 -“ September 6. For a full program, visit springmigration.com.au