The Hughenden Festival of Outback Skies had a fantastic debut, with a whopping 2,000 visitors over the long weekend. The festival, which celebrated the Flinders Shire region’s unique and stunning landscapes, featured an abundance of activities, live music, workshops, food, art, and entertainment. It was a hoot!
Highlights of the festival included a dinner under the stars, the celebrity BBQ competition, bull rides, and the raft race that saw 15 teams compete… with various levels of success. However, the most enchanting moment was undoubtedly the lantern release, which brought locals and visitors together in a collective celebration of the beauty of the Outback skies.
Flinders Shire Mayor, Jane McNamara, was thrilled with the outcome of the festival, which was the culmination of months of hard work. “We wanted to create a tourism drawcard that was unique, and we succeeded beyond our wildest expectations,” said Mayor McNamara.
“The Festival of Outback Skies had something for everyone, from traditional events to quirky activities, which we hope will continue to attract a wide variety of people to the region.”
The festival’s success has confirmed Hughenden’s status as a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a unique outback experience. Mayor McNamara added that she saw a great future for the festival and that she was sure it now had a place on the Outback tourism calendar.
The overwhelmingly enthusiastic response to the festival exceeded all expectations. Flinders Shire Council had expected around 1,000 people to attend the festival, but double that amount turned out for the event. The festival’s success highlights the growing interest in the Outback fuelled by the region’s unique identity and heritage.
From everyone here at Hughenden, a HUGE thank you to everyone who supported the festival. To our volunteers, sponsors and of course visitors and guests – we look forward to welcoming you again at the next festival.
If you’re wanting more information about the festival make sure to head to https://festivalofoutbackskies.com.au.
See you in ‘Hughey’.
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