Program unveiled for cities’ newest festival
City of Wodonga 8 Nov 2019

There’s more than 100 things to see, do and enjoy as part of the Border’s newest arts and cultural festival to be held next year. 

Born under the banner of Two Cities One Community, Upstream embodies the theme of partnership which makes Albury-Wodonga unique.

Across four days there will be a host of activities which celebrate our rich art and cultural fabric and place a spotlight on creativity.

This inaugural event will feature diverse art forms in prominent central and natural public locations, bringing art to the people in unique settings.

AlburyCity Mayor Cr Kevin Mack and Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie launched the festival program at Noreuil Park within sight of the banks of the Murray River where the gala opening event will take place on the Friday night.

“Kicking off the festival on our beautiful foreshore with music, acrobatic feats, food trucks and an amazing laser show over the river will truly set the scene for the four day,” Cr Mack said.”

“The festival will alternate between the two cities over the festival and there is plenty of events in the lead-up as well.

“We have a fantastic arts and cultural industry here on the Border and this will be a great opportunity for local and visitors alike to experience it all including our public art trails and galleries.”

Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie encouraged the community invite their family and friends to visit and take part in all the festival has to offer.

“The great thing about this festival is that it is for everyone – families, art lovers, visitors, locals. Everyone will find something to enjoy from the family-friendly Messy Art Party at Belvoir Park in Wodonga on the Saturday morning, to the eclectic Upstream Street Party on the Saturday evening in Junction Place to the night on the island with a twilight performance in the Gateway Village amphitheatre,” Cr Speedie said.

“We are thrilled to be launching this packed program so everyone can share in the excitement as we count down to the festival.”

The Mayors encouraged everyone to get involved whether it was being a part of the Upstream Small Sculpture Prize or the business window display competition.

“This is something for the whole community and the window display competition is a fantastic way for businesses to involve themselves in the festival and help in building the excitement in the lead-up,” Cr Speedie said.

“Upstream is a great example of how the councils, through the Two Cities One Community partnership, can work together and build an event that drives visitation and benefits our local community,” Cr Mack said.

Businesses are invited to an information evening on Wednesday, November 13 to find out how they can be involved and contribute to the success of this cross-border celebration.

Upstream will be held over the Victorian long weekend from March 6 to 9, 2020.

The festival’s locations include Noreuil Park, Belvoir Park, Gateway Island, Junction Square and The Cube Wodonga.

The name Upstream places the focus on the natural landmark of the Murray River and the meeting point of the two cities. In an artistic sense, to go upstream is to go against the current and this name could suggest a cultural festival full of daring or unexpected experiences.

The program, exhibition EOIs and information on the business window display competition can be found on the festival website at upstream.org.au

Updates will be shared via the festival’s dedicated Facebook page and Instagram account.