![Eskimo Joe will headline Highlands Fest 2023. Picture supplied. Eskimo Joe will headline Highlands Fest 2023. Picture supplied.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/C5T5utnEbuCCVHhsQW5GNd/3db59a35-7369-4d33-849d-53c04e9c98c3.jpg/r0_68_1280_788_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Eskimo Joe and Bluey are coming to the Southern Highlands.
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Known for their hits 'From the Sea' and 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine', Eskimo Joe will headline Highlands Fest, with an exciting appearance by everyone's favourite cartoon cattle dog, Bluey.
A celebration of local arts and crafts, food, wine and music, Highlands Fest 2023 is a once-only event designed to bring the community together on March 4, 2023 at Bong Bong Racecourse.
Highlands Fest will offer a rare opportunity to interact with Bluey at an on-stage appearance in the children's zone.
Created by an Australian animator inspired by being a Dad to two daughters, Bluey is so popular that Australians have streamed episodes more than 260 million times,
For one hundred lucky families there will be a meet and great experience.
Wingecarribee Shire Council's general manager Lisa Miscamble said Highlands Fest was an event everyone could enjoy together.
"We wanted to create an opportunity that everyone could enjoy together, experiencing the very best our Shire has to offer, along with some special first appearances for our region as a way of connecting with one another after the isolating effects of recent years," she said.
Activities start from 12 noon, with local cool climate wine and produce stalls, face-painting, an animal farm, plus fun with vegetables and lots of songs from another favourite, The Vegetable Plot.
Live music will continue into the evening with alternative rock band Eskimo Joe on the main stage from 8.50pm.
Among local talent will be Prefab Hearts, Angus Murray, Steve Cheers, Jess Howell and Ross Webb and the Rusted Track.
Ross Webb said he and his band members were thrilled to be performing on the main stage.
"The line-up of local and well-known Aussie artists is superb, and we are so proud to be part of an event that will bring together the community. Bring it on," he said.
Up-and-coming musician, performer and singer-songwriter Jess Howell said she was also excited to perform at the festival.
"I am really looking forward to singing for my community and sharing my stories with you all as are all the other incredible artists."
Event organiser Veronica Kennedy Good said residents were encouraged to explore the festival program and plan their visit for a seamless experience.
"We expect this to be a very popular event, so it's best to book early."
Highlands Fest will be held at Bong Bong Racecourse. Gates open at 12 pm with the festival scheduled to finish at 10 pm.
The first release of tickets will be available for residents in the Wingecarribee Shire from today Friday January 27, 2023.
Local operators who would like to submit an Expression of Interest in becoming a stallholder may do so at www.yoursaywingecarribee.com.au/highlands-fest.
For more information visit highlandsfest.au or phone Council's Community Development team on 4868 0888.
Details on how to book at www.highlandsfest.au. Entry is free but tickets are required.
Highlands Fest was made possible by funding through the NSW Government's Reconnecting Regional NSW Community Event Program.
The aim of this funding is to support communities and businesses to host events that will rebuild community cohesion, deliver positive social outcomes and support local businesses in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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