Rock into the 50s: 

Get ready to dust off your poodle skirts and slick back your hair, because the Woombye Happy Days Festival is gearing up to transport attendees back to the swinging 50s and 60s with a lineup of retro-inspired dance activities. As preparations for the festival are underway, anticipation is building for a day filled with nostalgic fun for the whole community.

Scheduled for May 5, the festival, organised by the Woombye Community and Business Association (WCBA) in collaboration with Bendigo Bank Woombye, aims to celebrate the town’s rich history and vibrant community spirit while promoting local businesses and fostering a sense of pride in the historic town.

Festivities kick off at 10am along Hill Street, which will be closed from Blackall to Campbell Street. A stage will be set up beside the School of Arts, hosting live music performances from 10 am to 6 pm, interspersed with fun competitions, prize-giving ceremonies, kids’ performances, and emceed by the charismatic Howard Riach.

Rock ‘n roll dance in the main hall

A highlight of the event, as the sun begins to set, is a ticketed rock ‘n roll dance in the main hall, starting at 6pm. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest 50s attire (there are prizes for best dressed) and get ready to twist and shout to the live music of the “RocknRollaBillys” band.

For those who have never danced before, particularly Rock ‘n’ Roll or similar styles, it is one of the characteristic elements of the era, said dance instructor Nathan Major from Cool Cats Dance Studio. “You didn’t go clubbing, you went to a dance,” he said. “In fact, that’s how my wife and I met. If you’ve ever watched some of the movie classics, the fun they show on the silver screen is not an exaggeration. So, come along to the dance and have yourself a ball!”

Cool Cats are offering a string of free workshops in different styles over the afternoon. Included is a family-friendly workshop that is great for people of nearly all ages or experience levels and designed to get you grooving to the music. 

If you want to find out more about the dance workshops, the dance styles, or how to get some steps under your belt before the day, contact with Cool Cats (coolcatsau@gmail.com or 0402 592 253).

Market stalls and cars

Before the dance, attendees can look forward to exploring market stalls, admiring classic cars on display, indulging in delicious fare from food trucks, and enjoying a range of family-friendly activities including a petting zoo.

WCBA President Milo Frawley said the event would not be possible without the support of the community and local businesses. “This will be the biggest 30 hours Woombye sees all year,” said Milo. “We would love as many people as possible to join us and get into the spirit of things.”.

With dance classes, live music, and plenty of retro vibes, the Happy Days Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Woombye’s past and present. So mark your calendars, grab your dancing shoes, and get ready to Rock into the 50s at the Happy Days Festival on May 5.

• For more information about the festival and how to get involved, contact the WCBA at woombyecommunity@gmail.com or attend their monthly meetings held on the fourth Thursday of each month from 6-7 pm.