Another successful Port Fairy Folk Festival

The Southern Lights lantern parade lit up Port Fairy at dusk, beginning in the streets before making its way into the arena. 

Musicians from four different bands played and danced their way through the crowds.

Festival director Jamie McKew said the last parade was 20 years ago and the committee wanted to include one in this year’s program.

“It was fantastic – it blew everyone away,” McKew said of the illuminated marine-themed lanterns.

Moyne Shire councillor Ralph Leutton said praised the event, in particular the fact it was organised by a primarily volunteer workforce was incredible.

“I think this festival is a trendsetter for Australia and even the world, because it is music focused,” Cr Leutton said.

“I think the way here we are able to control alcohol and unruliness is fantastic, because people come to enjoy the music. 

“We’ve been to other festivals and you’ve got to wade through the smoke and the alcohol to find the music.” 

American John McCutcheon said the Folkie was a “genuine world music festival”.

“I've played all over the world but this is a very special one,” McCutcheon said. 

“The location is beautiful right here on the sea and the people are just so wonderful and friendly. It’s been wonderful relationship for me. I've been back many times.”

McKew was overwhelmed by the amount of well wishers who stopped to congratulate him during the weekend.

He said fans didn’t want to miss the milestone event.

“A lot of people have come just because it’s the 40th festival,” McKew said. 

Police also praised the behaviour of the crowds.

Sergeant Mick Wolfe of Port Fairy police said police arrested one person for being drunk, two people received penalty notices for underage drinking while one person was caught for offensive behaviour. 

“People have had a great time so far and we don’t anticipate that will change,” he said on Sunday morning.