Set to run from May 22 to 25 on the riverbanks of Echuca and Rochester, the event will look to create connections between people and places through artistic expression and community engagement.
A key theme is adaptations to climate change impacts, explored through creativity and storytelling.
The event is being developed by council’s art and culture team, collaborating with creative co-design groups in Rochester and Echuca to create the festival program.
Campaspe Shire Mayor 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,” he said.
“We are really excited to be working with the community to bring a brand-new arts festival to our region.”
The event is supported by the Victorian Government’s flood recovery funding, and will include a residency and youth artist program.
Expressions of interest are open for the Ripple Fest Pump House Artist in Residency Program.
This program will allow artists to engage with Echuca’s heritage and natural environment in preparation for the event.
Arts and culture co-ordinator Kris Tito highlighted the key themes of the festival, including 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,” she said.
The residency will give artists access to Echuca’s heritage-listed Pump House building with views of the Dhungala, or the Murray River, and Banyula State Forest.
They will develop creative projects and share skills and knowledge with the local community.
Ripple Fest creative producer Greg Pritchard encouraged 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,” he said.
“I encourage any artists who would like to know more about the program to contact the arts and culture team.”
Expressions of interest are also open for a youth-led program, supporting up to 12 young people aged between 15 and 25 at Echuca’s Foundry Arts Space.
From February to April, participants will participate in creative workshops with professional artist mentors, growing their skills and contributing to a public exhibition.
They will have the opportunity to exhibit their work from Friday, May 2 until the event finale on Sunday, May 25.
Ms Tito believes this is a unique opportunity for young artists to take part in an important 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,” she said.
“It is a fantastic chance for young, regional people to gain hands-on experience with professional artists.”
Applications close on February 19.
For more information or to apply, visit campaspe.vic.gov.au/ripple, phone 1300 666 535 or email ripple@campaspe.vic.gov.au
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