Celebrating hidden gems in and around the Rose City
The 2024 Benalla Festival is a 10-day celebration centered around the theme of Hidden Gems, showcasing the unique and undiscovered treasures that make Benalla and surroundings truly special.
The festival theme, Hidden Gems, highlights lesser-known attractions, local artists, and community stories that contribute to Benalla Rural City’s rich tapestry.
The community is invited to explore everything from walking tours and rural art installations, to exploring ancient artefacts and devouring delicious culinary delights.
The festival is a celebration of Benalla Rural City’s lifestyle, its people, country living and community spirit.
The festical, in different formats, has been running for 57 years and is a major event on the Benalla Rural City’s community calendar.
Originally known as the Festival of Roses, it was first held from October 27 to November 5 in 1967, with the goal of fostering community pride, promoting Benalla as the Garden City of the North East, showcasing its roses, and offering entertainment for all interests.
Today, the Benalla Festival continues to celebrate Benalla and its district townships through events that showcase the Rural City.
It will run from Friday, November 1 to Sunday, November 10.
The launch of the festival will be held on Friday, November 1 in Benalla at the Ceramic Mural/Benalla Visitor Information Centre precinct with the opening event Wheel to Wheel Motorcycle Exhibition.
The Benalla Festival is run by Benalla Rural City Council and overseen by the community-based Benalla Festival Advisory Committee.
The 2024 Benalla Festival features an incredible line-up of free or low cost,
high-quality experiences that locals and visitors can enjoy. ▯ To find out more and to keep up with the latest updates, visit www.benallafestival.com.au or follow Benallafestival on Facebook.
Good food, good mood, great street vibes.
Celebrating community spirit at the Benalla Festival.
Unleash the magic of Benalla Festival with these amazing free and low-cost experiences.
6pm – 9.30pm
FESTIVAL LAUNCH EVENT
Samaria Rose Farm Open Days
9am – 12pm
1305 Benalla Warrenbayne Rd, Warrenbayne Entry: Free
Benalla Car Meet Up and Parade Laps at Winton Motor Raceway
9am – 12pm
Meet at 14 Mair St, Parade Laps at Winton Motor Raceway Entry: Free
Treasure Hunt at the Maze and Hot Air Balloon Walk-through
2-3 and 8-10 November
10am – 5pm
Brookfield Maze
1121 Benalla-Whitfield Rd, Myrrhee Entry: For ticket details visit the Festival’s website
Tatong Tavern Platter and Wine in the Gardens 11am – 4pm Tatong Tavern 2581 Benalla-Tatong Rd, Tatong Entry: Free. Food and beverages available for purchase
Deep Soulful Sweats
7pm – 8.30pm
Benalla Art Gallery
97 Bridge St, Benalla Entry: Free. To book please visit www.benallaartgallery.com.au
and
Devenish Market 9am – 1pm
Bicentennial Park
Main St, Devenish Entry: Free
Benalla Stage School –Theatre Workshop for Kids
10.30am – 12.30pm
Benalla Art Gallery
97 Bridge Street, Benalla Entry: Free. To book please visit www.benallaartgallery.com.au
Movie and Scones at Swanpool Cinema
1.30pm (length time 1hr 57 min)
Swanpool Cinema
2386 Midland Hwy, Swanpool Entry: $5 includes tea and scones
donation for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal
Twilight Cemetery Walk Guided Tours
Tuesday 5, Thursday 7 and Sunday 10 November 6.30pm – 7.30pm Benalla Cemetery Cemetery Rd, Benalla Entry: Free
Sound Installation
Tuesday 5 November, 7pm-8pm
Benalla Library underneath carpark, 2 Fawckner Drv, Benalla Saturday 9 November, 6am-7am Benalla Aboriginal Garden, Moira Reserve (off Mitchell St) Entry: Free
Sparking youth engagement
The upcoming Benalla Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for local youth, featuring a range of engaging activities designed to spark creativity and community spirit.
Benalla Stage School –Theatre workshop for kids
Hosted by the Benalla Stage School, a vibrant, interactive youth theatre workshop will be held on Sunday, November 3 from 10.30am to 12.30pm at the Benalla Art Gallery.
Free to attend, bookings requested www.benallaartgallery.com.au
FReeZA Silent Disco
Later in the day, join us for the FReeZA Silent Disco at the Benalla Town Hall Basement, 82-86 Nunn St, Benalla.
There will be two sessions:
• 6pm to 7.30pm for 12 to 15-year-olds
• 8pm to 9.30pm for 15 to 19-year-olds
This free ticketed event offers a unique way to enjoy music with friends in a fun, silent setting. Tickets can be reserved at https:// events.humanitix.com/ freeza-silent-disco
Benalla by the Lake Saturday, November 9 from
4pm to 9.30pm. Grab a rug and head down to Benalla Lake Benalla Foreshore for an evening of entertainment.
Indulge in a mix of live entertainment, children’s entertainment, street food and beverages at Benalla by the Lake.
The main stage will feature a vibrant mix of live music all culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
Live Music Extravaganza: Dance the night away to the beats of our amazing line-up of bands.
One of the standout acts at Benalla by the Lake is the Melbourne Ska Orchestra.
This powerhouse group, featuring up to 26 members, includes some of Australia’s top musicians and performers.
Led by the dynamic and charismatic Nicky Bomba (known for his work with John Butler Trio, Bomba, and Bustamento), the Melbourne Ska Orchestra offers more than just music, it delivers an unforgettable experience.
fireworks display
Cap off the evening with a bang.
The festival will culminate in a breath-taking fireworks display that will illuminate the night sky, painting it with vibrant colours and adding a touch of magic to the festivities.
The 2024 Benalla Festival features an incredible line-up of free or low cost, high-quality experiences that locals and visitors can enjoy.
Looking for hidden gems?
If you are, it might be well worth your while to fossick at the Tatong Market and More.
With over thirty stalls offering new, pre-loved and downright old goods, who knows what you might unearth.
For the children, there will be face painting and games. In the recreation reserve hall, there will be an art show featuring the works of Maria Burns. Admire Tony Levy’s sculptures made from scrap metal. The defibrillator demonstration may help you save a life one day.
Why not meet friends for a barista made coffee and be entertained by the band Rattler. If you’re feeling a bit peckish, the Tatong CFA will have their sausage sizzle going or enjoy a sandwich and cake from the Tatong Hall Committee stall.
Tatong Market & More is held on the picturesque Tatong Footy Oval on Tiger Hill Road only a twenty minute drive from Benalla.
Why not have a lovely family day out? – the market in the morning, lunch at the Tatong Tavern and a visit to Stringybark Creek.
It’s not too late to have a spring-clean in the house and/or shed, book a site, have a fun morning and maybe even make a few dollars
Put November 3rd on your calendar so you don’t miss this great morning.
Site enquiries to John, 0482 560 981.
Free (outdoor) Activities Under cover area
-Barefoot bowls for the family
-live entertainment with Anthony Tenace
-Kids Activities (Face painting - pinata - pass the parcel)
-Lots of fun for the whole family
-Kiosk & full club facilities available
-Call the club for details
Spectacular
Lighting up the night.
Giggles, colours and endless fun.
Young performers shine in this interactive theatre.
THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER
FReeZA Silent Disco
6pm –
FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Hidden Gems Story Time and Crafts at the Library
10.30am – 11.15am Benalla Library 2 Fawckner Dve, Benalla Entry: Free
Estia Health Open Day
1.30pm – 3.30pm Estia Health
107 Thomas St, Benalla Entry: Free
Bowls on the Green 5.30pm – 9pm Benalla Bowls Club 25 Arundel St, Benalla Entry: Free. Bookings required please call 5762 2094
SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER
Ave, Benalla Entry: $5 includes tea, coffee and biscuits
Benalla Street Art Walking Tours
9-10 November Tours at 11am, 1pm and 3pm
Benalla Visitor Information Centre, 14 Mair St, Benalla Entry: $10pp, kids under 12 free or $40 for tour, t-shirt and three posters. Bookings via www.trybooking.com/CVTEZ
Live Art Benalla Kids Party @ the Mural and Splash Park 2pm – 4pm
Ceramic Mural, 14 Mair St, Benalla Entry: Free
Benalla by the Lake 5pm – 9.30pm Lake Benalla Foreshore Fawkner Dve, Benalla Entry: Free
Fiesta fun for everyone
Fiesta fun for kids and families at this year’s Benalla Festival Families and children are sure to be entertained at this year’s Benalla Festival, with the annual event offering a comprehensive line-up of thrilling events perfect for the young and the young at heart. From adventurous treasure hunts to captivating story times, this year’s festival guarantees unforgettable fun and excitement for everyone.
Hidden Gems Story Time and crafts at the library
The Benalla Library will host
a special Hidden Gems Story Time on Friday, November 8 from 10.30am to 11.15am.
This engaging session invites young children (ages two to five) to dive into magical tales and craft their own treasures. Entry is free, so come and explore the gems of storytelling.
Treasure hunt at the maze and hot air balloon walk-through Brookfield Maze
Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3 and Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10 from
10am to 5pm each day.
Families can explore the Brookfield Maze and surrounding gardens, uncover hidden gems and discover ancient artefacts.
Don’t miss the opportunity to step inside a hot air balloon for a memorable experience. For ticket details, visit the Benalla Festival’s website.
Tomorrow Today scavenger hunt
Join the Tomorrow Today scavenger hunt on Saturday, November 9 for an engaging and exploratory adventure.
Gather your team to
embark on an exciting adventure around the lake and its surroundings, as you search for clues and solve riddles while racing against the clock.
Starting at the Ceramic Mural, teams will embark on an adventure through Benalla, discovering significant places, people and stories.
Registration is free, and participants can win exciting prizes.
Separate hunts will be offered for younger and older participants, ensuring that everyone can participate in
this thrilling event.
Live Art Benalla kids’ party at the mural and splash park
Hosted by Live Art Benalla
An afternoon of children’s entertainment, live performances, visual arts and workshops at the Ceramic Mural and Splash Park will be held on Saturday, November 9 from 2pm to 4pm.
Don’t miss these exciting opportunities for children and families at the Benalla Festival.
▯ For more information and to keep up with the latest updates, visit www.
benallafestival.com.au
Welcome to Benalla Bus & Coach Lines
Benalla Bus & Coach Lines operate a variety of services within Benalla Rural City and beyond. Our "City Bus Service" provides DDA compliant transport (wheel chair accessability) which is reliable and punctual.
In addition to the "City Bus Service", Benalla Bus & Coach Lines offer a diverse range of other travel opportunities. Tours to some of Victoria's finest beauty spots for visitors to Benalla, its residents, school groups and custom groups. Need a Mini Bus?
Benalla Bus & Coach Lines dedication to meeting consumer demand has found them in possession of three comfortable and modern mini-buses for you to hire.
All our vehicles are low mileage and ideal for school and community outings. Give Benalla Bus Lines a call for more information on
and
Pure joy at the splash park.
Come and get lost in the beauty of the Brookfield Maze.
Experience the magic inside a hot air balloon. Hunts for every age group.
PLANTS FOR SALE
FREE DELIVERY in Benalla
• For all your plant needs
• Hard to find plants sourced
• Large range at value for money prices
Open Wednesday to Sunday 9.00am - 4.00pm
Closed Monday & Tuesday
141 Witt Street Benalla 0417 315 726
See the art in everything
See the art in everything at this year’s Benalla Festival, with key creative events showcasing artwork, film, music, movement, dance and design.
Be inspired by art exhibitions from local and international artists, enjoy a curation of short films, or be swept up with soulful music and movement by local performance artists.
Benalla Festival’s art, culture and music offerings include:
Saturday, November 2: Sunset Sounds at The Northo from 4pm until late.
Saturday, November 2: Deep Soulful Sweats from 7pm to 8.30pm.
Monday, November 4: Diwali at the Mural from 6.30pm to 9.30pm
Tuesday, November 5: Wanamara Farm Silo Art from 11am to 3pm.
Tuesday, November 5: Sound Installation from 7pm to 8pm.
Saturday, November 9: Sound Installation from 6am to 7am.
Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10: Benalla Street Art Walking Tours, 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
Saturday, November 9: Benalla by the Lake from 4pm to 9.30pm.
A key highlight of the Benalla by the Lake lineup is the Melbourne Ska Orchestra — an orchestra
with a difference.
Comprising up to 26 members, this juggernaut contains some of Australia’s finest musicians and performers.
Led by the energetic and charismatic Nicky Bomba (John Butler Trio, Bomba, Bustamento), Melbourne Ska Orchestra are more than just a band, they are an experience to behold.
Sunday, November 10: Scotty So — Thrill of the Camp 10th Benalla National and International Short Film Festival, 3pm and 6.30pm.
Sunday, November 10: Scotty So — Thrill of the Camp, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
From art exhibitions to a display of celebrated and coveted motorcycles, for the full list of exhibitions visit www.benallafestival. com.au
The artistic additions to the Benalla Festival events calendar this year feature an incredible line-up of free or low cost, high-quality arts and cultural experiences that locals and visitors can enjoy.
A celebration of community, culture and creativity, the Benalla Festival will be held from November 1 to 10.
So much colour and fun at the Benalla Festival.
Benalla Festival introduces Chill Out Zone
The Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group is a major sponsor of the upcoming Benalla Festival, and as part of its inaugural support, it is providing a quiet and welcoming chill out space as part of the Benalla by the Lake flagship event.
The new Chill Out Zone is a quiet space for festival-goers
who need a sensory rest-stop, available during the Benalla by the Lake main event, held on the lake foreshore from 5pm to 9pm on Saturday, November 9. The Chill Out Zone marquee and adjoining outdoor space features beanbags, cushions, sensory toys, crosswords, sudoku, mindful
colouring-in sheets for adults and children.
It is located in a quiet space for use when festival-goers are showing signs of overwhelm, fatigue or overexcitement.
This quiet space provides a reduced stimulation environment that allows patrons to calm, relax, re-organise and re-focus.
Located between the library, skate park and walking track, the newly-created Chill Out Zone marquee is away from the main event and from the musical stage, however, it is still in prime position to view the popular fireworks event.
Welcoming, accessible and inclusive, the Chill Out
Zone is an initiative of major Benalla Festival sponsor, The Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group, with support from Benalla Rural City Council.
The 2024 Benalla Festival features an incredible line-up of free or low cost, high-quality experiences that locals and visitors can enjoy.
A celebration of community, culture and creativity, the Benalla Festival will be held from November 1 to 10. ▯ For more information and to keep up with the latest updates, visit www.benallafestival. com.au or follow @ Benallafestival on Facebook.
This Diwali, we celebrate light over darkness with vibrant colours and creativity.
Organisers offer heartfelt thanks to festival sponsors
As Benalla gets ready to host the Benalla Festival 2024, the Benalla Festival Advisory Committee extended its thanks to the event sponsors for their generous support.
These include major sponsors, Benalla Rural City Council and the Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group with support from the Friends of the Festival: Benalla Bowls Club, Benalla Signs and Designs, Benalla Veterinary Clinic, Benalla Bus Lines, Benalla Racing Club, Bouwmeesters Bakery, Graeme Currie Electrical, Marsha Watson Pharmacy, Millers Benalla Pty Ltd, RBR Refrigeration, Smith Dosser Accountants and TAC L2P Program.
As major sponsor, the SIAG program helps to foster community connections and promote mental well being.
It empowers locals to collectively identify goals and co-create initiatives aimed at enhancing social inclusion, made possible through
funding from the Victorian Government Department of Health.
The SIAG group, as part of its inaugural support, is providing a quiet and welcoming chill out space as part of the Benalla by the Lake flagship event.
The Benalla Festival Advisory Committee extends its thanks to the sponsors for their invaluable contributions that allowed the committee to turn its vision for the festival into a reality.
A celebration of community, culture and creativity, the Benalla Festival will be held from November 1 to 10.
The 2024 Benalla Festival features an incredible line-up of free or low cost, high-quality experiences that locals and visitors can enjoy.
▯ For more information and to keep up with the latest updates, visit www. benallafestival.com.au or follow Benallafestival on Facebook.
Display
Good company, great music, unforgettable memories.
Benalla Racing Club is one of the sponsors excited to support the festival.
Benalla Rural City Council investing in Benalla.
Social inclusion action group sponsor.
