Visit the Macedon Ranges

The 19th Woodend Winter Arts Festival will deliver a four-day feast of music, words and ideas in the charming village of Woodend. Taking place over the King’s Birthday long weekend, WWAF will present a dynamic program of music, and words and ideas events. World class performers will be joined by some of Australia’s brightest minds for a series of incredible performances and discussions – all within a relaxed and intimate village setting. Over 100 artists will perform during the Festival in various venues throughout Woodend. From the incredible acoustics of St Ambrose Church, to the intimacy of the St Ambrose Hall next door, this is an event where you can witness the musical genius of artists who usually perform at major concert halls. Whether you are a classical music aficionado, or simply want to experience a different type of music, the program offers something for everyone. Highlights of the music program include a lively performance by Southern Spanish guitarist Paco Lara, who will perform Flamenco of Southern Spain, accompanied by flamenco dancer Deya Giner. Jazz great Paul Grabowsky will showcase the piano across centuries, performing selections from his album Solo, while twice ARIA-nominated Nat Bartsch will transport the audience into the realm of new Jazz with her award-winning ensemble. London-based pianist Piers Lane will perform Chopin, Smetana & Mozart, while Woodend’s own Jacqueline Ogeil leads Accademia Arcadia’s performance of the Early Solo Concertos on the Cristofori piano. Australian tenor Daniel Thomson returns from Europe to perform Schubert Lieder with John O’Donnell, who will also conduct two performances of Bach’s mighty St John Passion with Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia. The Words & Ideas program will deliver engaging debates and discussions on challenging contemporary issues discussing topics ranging from ‘city versus country’, to ‘machines versus humans’. Expect to hear from bright minds such as Nobel Prize winner Peter Doherty and broadcaster/journalists Gideon Haigh, Elizabeth Finkel, George Megalogenis, and Don Watson. Andrew Ford will reveal his latest book, while ABC Radio presenter Robyn Williams will lead a fun and insightful discussion on ‘Sex, Science and Singing’ with geneticist Jenny Graves.

We love this historic building and it's spirits. They are friendly and really try to communicate with us. Learn how to use ghost detecting equipment such as spirit box, K2 meters, dowsing rods, laser pens, static detector etc etc, participate in a couple of experiments then off to communicate guided by paranormal enthusiast Dolly. We think we have a stage spirit who loves it when we sing, Steve, Tom and a Bob around what was the old library, and a Ned and a Michael out the back who are obsessed with the number 4. Plenty of room to investigate. Small group size. $35/pax Good for 13yrs and up.

Join Castlemaine artist Linda Newton in this full-day drawing class where you learn to outline your sketches before using watercolour pigments to fill them with colour! Linda is known for her quirky yet incredibly detailed paintings and drawings and in this intensive workshop, she will show you how she creates her animals including how she creates movement in her characters and develops personalities. You will then be guided on how you can add dimension and drama in your composition by adding a watercolour wash to your work. Linda will go over the basics of using watercolours and the effects that can be achieved with a variety of brushes and the finishes that can be achieved with different techniques. Each participant will be provided with a kit to use during the workshop and take with them to continue their artistic journey at home. Your kit is valued at more than $70 and will include:

• Kuretake Watercolour Set - incl. 12 high pigment paints
• Zig Kuretake waterproof black fineliner
• 3 x Watercolour Brushes
• A4 Watercolour Pad

A delicious lunch will be provided created from all local organic produce and able to cater for any dietary requirements you may have. We also provide you with a divine afternoon treat and tea and coffee facilities are available throughout the course.

Come down and visit some of the finest producers in the state at the Macedon Village Farmers' Market, held below the majestic Mount Macedon on the welcoming grounds of Macedon Primary School. The market will be an extension of the Woodend Community Farmers' Market and you can look forward to shopping with many of the same stallholders, who will be bringing their high quality produce to the Macedon and surrounding communities, 4 times per year on the 5th Saturday. You can expect the same focus on sustainability, authenticity and community as the Woodend Farmers' Market. The Macedon Primary School are involving the school community in this event and will use any funds raised to further their landcare project.