Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2026 was launched by Campaspe Shire Deputy Mayor Tony Marwood. He is pictured with committee members Lauren Graham and Laurelin Berick.
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A strong crowd of supporters, community organisations, council representatives and politicians turned out for the official launch of 2026 Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival at the American Hotel.
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Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival incoming chairperson Laura Graham said the turnout reflected the community's enthusiasm for the event.
“We had 104 guests come along to the launch; supporters of the festival, community organisations, council, and politicians attended, which was a huge turnout for the launch night,” she said.
Ms Graham paid tribute to outgoing chair Laurelin Berick, crediting her with laying the groundwork for the festival's continued growth.
“I would like to pass on all my thanks to the outgoing chair, Laurelin Berick, for all of her support and encouragement,” she said.
“Laurelin's hard work and commitment to the festival is evident in the event's ongoing success.”
She also acknowledged the backing of key sponsors and partners.
“The Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival was made possible by support from the Victorian Government through the Regional Events Fund,” Ms Graham said.
“We thank all our sponsors and supporters, with special recognition of the longstanding commitment of Moama Bowling Club, Campaspe Shire, Murray River Council, Echuca Moama Accommodation Association, Sherridon Homes, Rich River Golf Club and the Echuca Hotel.”
New chair Laura Graham and vice chair Naomi Murray.
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JORDAN TOWNROW
Campaspe Shire Deputy Mayor Tony Marwood officially opened the festival and praised its growth into a nationally recognised event.
“What started as a local event has grown into what is now recognised as the longest-running blues festival in Australia, attracting visitors and performers from right across the country,” he said.
“What makes Winter Blues so special is that it’s a truly community-driven event.
“It is powered by volunteers, supported by local businesses and embraced by the entire community.
“That collective effort creates an atmosphere that is hard to replicate anywhere else.”
Cr Marwood highlighted the festival's community spirit, recounting a conversation with a visiting musician.
“I was speaking with a musician from Sydney at the launch last night who told me he had only been in Echuca for two hours and was already completely blown away by the welcome and the energy of the festival,” he said.
“I think that says everything about what Winter Blues means to people and the impression it leaves on visitors.
“Campaspe Shire Council is proud to support the festival and the significant economic, tourism and cultural benefits it brings to our region.”
Graham, Cr Tony Marwood, Laurelin Berick and music programmer Jon Howell.
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State Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh was among the guests and congratulated the tireless volunteer committee which puts it all together and the local businesses who back it year in and year out.
“I have been enjoying this event since I became Member for Murray Plains in 2010 and have watched with amazement as it has grown every year,” Mr Walsh said.
