Have you got “big festival” fatigue? The team behind iconic bush event Strawberry Fields have announced a new concept to cure what ails you. A one night only extravaganza that’s equal parts music, wellness and top shelf dining, all set on the magical banks of the winding Dhungala / Murray River.
The aptly named “Good Times” music festival will make its debut on Saturday 25 March 2023 at the same epic riverfront venue which hosts Strawberry Fields in Tocumwal, NSW.
With a strict capacity of just 1,000 lucky souls, the family-friendly event will feature one intimate stage, riverfront hot tubs, an epic wood-fired food program, handpicked natural wines and a lush bedouin lounge.
“While good music is fundamental to the experience, we’re placing just as much focus on slow-fun, food and relaxation,” say Festival Directors. “We want you to leave feeling better than when you arrived. Often the most treasured memories we leave festivals with are from the more intimate, in between moments, and that’s the space we want to invest in.”
A teaser of the dynamic homegrown line-up is led by Cash Savage & the Last Drinks, C.W. Stoneking & his Primitive Horn Orchestra and FLOODLIGHTS, with a full music program to be announced at the end of January.
Move over soggy chips and the usual carnival fare – the food & drink program at Good Times is set to satisfy even the most discerning foodie! Patrons will get to chow down on an exclusive sneak peak of Wild Pie – a new collaboration between chefs Jo Barrett & Louise Daily (Little Picket), Mark La Brooy (Three Blue Ducks) and wild game providore Discovered Wildfoods.
For those seeking to indulge in the ultimate long lunch, a six course wood-fired feast will be on offer by fire fanatic Pip’s Plate – think steaming hot damper, paperbark smoked fish, bush lemon charred veggies and native desserts all cooked over coals.
Other mouthwatering options include grazing plates of French cheeses from Studd Siblings, and a rockstar list of wines from renowned selector Mike Bennie of P&V Merchants.
The festival is also stepping up to do its part by the community, with all profits from Good Times’ inaugural event to be rolled into the Strawberry Fields Community Grants Fund. The same Fund has contributed over $100,000 in microgrants to local community organisations and not-for-profits since 2015. Causes funded over the past year include the Tocumwal Girls Shed, Tocumwal Rural Fire Brigade, Berrigan Country Women’s Association, Tocumwal Swimming Pool, CanASSIST Finely, and Barooga Public School.
Local Berrigan Shire residents will also have exclusive access to a hefty 50% off Adult Tickets for Good Times, with any local U18’s attending free of charge. Locals can simply head to the Good Times website www.good-times.com.au to claim this offer.
Good Times is also proud to have partnered with social enterprise Humanitix, with 100% of profits from ticketing operations to be donated to a range of high-impact, evidence-backed charities that help disadvantaged children all over the world get access to education, healthcare and greater opportunity for a fair-go in life.
Festival attendees will have the option of camping under the stars with a Camping Pass or taking up a classic Aussie motel room in the nearby town of Tocumwal. Shuttles will run from Tocumwal town to and from the festival for those staying off-site.
Full music, food & drink program TBA late January.
Good Times Festival
25 March 2023
Tocumwal, NSW
www.good-times.com.au/
