Spring Ditch is a family-friendly music festival set against the stunning backdrop of Stanley in Victoria’s North East High Country. The festival will showcase an exciting lineup of talented Australian artists, bringing live music and vibrant energy to this picturesque rural village. With strong involvement from local businesses and community groups, the event aims to deliver widespread benefits — from fundraising opportunities to boosting visitation throughout Stanley and the surrounding region.
Musical guests this year include all-female mariachi trailblazers QUEEN OF HEARTS, the transcendent Buddhist rock energy of BUDDHADATTA all the way from Japan, and the irresistible 60s-inspired ska grooves of THE SKABHANGERS. From Melbourne, THE LULUBLUES bring their soulful blues swagger, while AMAYA LAUCIRICA returns to enchant with her lush dream-pop soundscapes.
Keeping spirits high, the one and only MC JOHN WALKER joins us once again — actor, storyteller, and all-round legend — alongside our perennial party hero DJ JANE DOE, dropping the perfectly timed bangers that keep the Ditch moving. And making his long-awaited debut behind the decks, DJ PROF, a true Spring Ditch original, steps into the spotlight for a set that’s bound to become Stanley folklore!
Between band performances, families can enjoy a range of fun activities inspired by the beloved Stanley New Year’s Sports Day, which ran for an incredible 145 consecutive years before finishing in 1995. These engaging events will include the Stanley Smoke Up Competition, local performances on The Jamswells Stage, and Chainsaw Art by Kevin Duffy. Visitors can also take part in the exciting Golden Gumboot Throw, Spinning Wheel and Raffle Fundraisers, Golf Putting, and Spring Ditch Tennis Try Outs. The historic 1937 Pavilion will play host to a uniquely curated exhibition by The Stanley Athenaeum and younger guests can enjoy Face Painting with Daina, The Kids Olympiad, and The Kids Are Alright Fun Zone featuring Cats Pyjamas, Stanley Playgroup, and Forever Young Creative Kids.
Nestled just below the snowline at around 800 metres elevation and only a short drive from historic Beechworth, Stanley has transformed from its bustling gold rush days — when it was home to 6,000 residents and 19 hotels — into a peaceful village of fewer than 400 people. Today, Stanley is renowned for its cool-climate produce, including apples & chestnuts cherries, berries and hazelnuts, all nurtured by its rich red soil.
The nearby and once busy mining gully of Spring Ditch, is now a tranquil wetland surrounded by scenic walking trails, a delightful swimming hole called barge Dam and rich local history. Combined with Stanley’s warm hospitality, farm gates, and the welcoming Stanley Pub, the Spring Ditch festival promises a weekend of great music, family fun, and a true taste of country life in a great little community.
Program
Coming Soon!
Tickets
Tickets available here!
Bus
Stay tuned for updates…
Cash / Eftpos (Bring Cash!)
We’ve done a bit of work on our network and eftpos, but just to be sure you’re not left in the lurch.. bring along a bit of cash if you can. Our bar and vendors will have eftpos in some cases, but there’ll be raffles and a few other things that are strictly cash only. Bring some cash for as you never know what could happen out in the hills!
Water
Bring Some! We’ll have limited free water on site. There will be water on sale with our vendors, but save your dosh and pack a bit of H2O.
Bar
Bar The Madman’s Gully Bar is fully stocked and ready for you. No BYO Please!
Parking
Parking is available on streets only please. Try not to block driveways and that type of thing!
Picnic Rugs / Chairs / Comfy Stuff / Hats / Sunscreen?
Bring it! Make yoursleves at home. Set up a rad base camp. Prepare for all weather too, you never know!
Pets
Gotta leave them at home sorry, not like the bloody old days!
Where is Spring Ditch?
Spring Ditch is an event for everyone set within the natural amphitheatre of the beautiful, shady and tree lined Stanley Recreation Reserve, Pioneer Road, Stanley.
It must be noted that Spring Ditch is not located at Spring Ditch! It’s just such a cool name. Though if you end up there, it’s just around the corner from the actual location, so you’ll hear us.
How will I get there?
Stanley is just 8 clicks east of the historic gold rush town of Beechworth. Address is 11-53 Pioneer Rd, Stanley VIC 3747 if you wanna pop that in your map thingo!
What was the Stanley Sports Day?
The Stanley New Years Day Sports was held every year for over 130 years. It was a fun filled family day of sports, wood chop competitions, a wheelbarrow race, horse events and much more. It was last held in the mid 1990’s and is looked back on with fondness and a good dose of nostalgia.
Food and Refreshments?
The fully stocked and well loved Madman’s Gully Bar along with a great variety of local food vendors will satisfy your hunger and thirst. Vegan options will be available. Feel free to pack a picnic as well!
Do I need to sign up for events?
Nah. All kids and adult aged kids can sign up for the available activities on the day.