Aireys Inlet will host a month-long festival from late May, with organisers aiming to bring visitors to the Surf Coast during a quieter period for regional tourism.
The event SENSE-ational Aireys is scheduled to run from May 29 to June 28 and is being organised by the Aireys Inlet Tourism and Traders Association.
AITTA president Michael Lawrey said the festival is intended to draw attention to the town’s offerings at a time when activity typically slows. “We’re going to give visitors an attack on the senses,” Lawrey says. “We want visitors to soak up the atmosphere of Aireys. We would like everyone to taste Aireys, to breathe Aireys, to feel it, and live it. That is why Aireys is Sense-ational.”
The opening weekend will include a dinner on May 29 featuring television and radio presenter George Donikian. He is also expected to take part in local events, including the launch of an exhibition at Eagles Nest Gallery and visits to community sites such as the Aireys Inlet Community Garden.
The program includes a mix of food events, workshops and community activities. Organisers have outlined themed lunches and dinners alongside lighthouse tours, film screenings, art sessions and a writers’ workshop.
A health and wellness seminar is planned for June 6, bringing together practitioners offering natural and holistic services. The following day will feature a roaming performance by a character named Jean Claude, described as a French gendarme interacting with visitors throughout the town.
The Aireys Inlet Market and Great Ocean Road Mini Golf will operate during the festival period, providing additional options for visitors across multiple weekends.
A panel discussion on June 13 will include former Western Bulldogs player Luke Darcy, comedian Glenn Robbins, Justice Rita Incerti and author Neil Kearney, each speaking about their connection to the area.
Organisers say the festival will highlight local businesses and encourage visitors to spend time in the region through a range of experiences linked to food, culture and outdoor activity.
Further program details and registrations for events such as coastal walks and rockpool excursions will be available through the Aireys Inlet website in the lead-up to the festival.
The festival will take place across Aireys Inlet from May 29 to June 28.
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