Introducing Ripple Fest 2025
Published on 23 December 2024
Campaspe Shire Council is thrilled to announce Ripple Fest, a pioneering arts festival set to take place from 22-25 May 2025. Ripple Fest is dedicated to connecting people and place through creativity, fostering relationships with nature, and exploring new ways to adapt to the impacts of climate change. This innovative festival is a space for artistic expression and community engagement, aiming to build connections through intergenerational storytelling and creative exploration.
Council’s Arts & Culture team in collaboration with Creative Co-design groups, has been working diligently to bring Ripple Fest to life. The festival program has been envisioned by Creative Co-Design groups based in both Rochester and Echuca, comprising diverse communities from around the shire. Supported by the state government flood recovery funding, Ripple Fest promises to be an immersive celebration of art, culture, and community on the vibrant riverbanks of Echuca and Rochester.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell highlighted the power of the arts to heal and rebuild communities, while creating a sense of unity.
“In times of disaster, art becomes a vital tool for recovery, helping individuals and communities to process their experiences, find hope, and envision a brighter future.
“We are really excited to be working with the community to bring a brand-new arts festival to our region,” Cr Mackrell said.
Call for Artists: Pump House Residency EOI
Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for the Ripple Fest Pump House Artist in Residency Program. This unique opportunity invites artists to engage with the rich heritage and natural environment of Echuca in preparation for Ripple Fest 2025.
Arts & Culture Coordinator Kris Tito highlighted the festival's focus on environmental resilience, intergenerational storytelling, and the impacts of climate change, with contributions from local and regional communities.
“The Pump House Artist in Residency Program offers artists a unique chance to explore environmental and cultural themes while developing their creative practice in an incredible setting,” said Ms Tito.
Selected artists will have access to the heritage-listed Pump House building in Echuca, with stunning views of the Dhungala (Murray River) and nearby Banyula State Forest. They will develop creative projects and share skills and knowledge with the local community.
Ripple Fest Creative Producer Dr. Greg Pritchard encourages artists of all career stages to apply.
“Proposals should align with Ripple Fest’s focus areas: connection to Country, building resilience, and facilitating intergenerational storytelling.
“I encourage any artists who would like to know more about the program to contact the Arts & Culture team,” said Dr. Pritchard.
Young Creatives Invited to Make Waves at Ripple Fest 2025
Ripple Fest 2025 will also select up to 12 young people aged 15-25 years from an Expression of Interest callout to join a youth-led program culminating in a vibrant exhibition at Echuca’s Foundry Arts Space.
From February to April, participants will take part in creative workshops with professional artist mentors to develop their skills and contribute to a public exhibition showcasing fresh, dynamic perspectives. Young artists will also have the chance to celebrate their work at the exhibition opening on Friday, 2 May and the event finale on Sunday, 25 May 2025.
Ms Tito said this is an exciting opportunity for young artists to join a meaningful community event.
“Young artists will have the opportunity to explore creative storytelling and collaboration, and exhibit their work as part of a major arts festival.
“It is a fantastic chance for young, regional people to gain hands-on experience with professional artists.”.
Applications open on 23 December 2024 and close on 19 February 2025. No prior artistic experience is required—just curiosity and a passion for creativity! Be part of the ripple effect and create something unforgettable.
For more information or to apply, visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/ripple, phone Council’s Arts and Culture Team on 1300 666 535 or email [email protected]