MORE than 400 people enjoyed an easy Sunday afternoon listening to live blues at the first showcase of the year for the Bendigo Blues & Roots Festival.
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Held at the Golden Vine Hotel, it was the first of several events to be organised throughout the year to raise money for the annual Bendigo festival in November.
Fifteen groups and performers, including Josh Owen and Lost Heart Sirens, plus youngsters Pat and Cass Ward and Ella Spizzica, entertained the crowds from noon until about 9pm.
Blues & Roots Festival committee member Ben Cameron said the event was a great way to kick off the event in 2013.
“This is the first of four showcases and five blues trains we will hold throughout the year,” he said.
“The point of difference this year is that we’re really looking at showcasing young, developing local talent.”
Mr Cameron said the blues festival was growing in its third year, with international performers contacting the committee wanting to be a part of it.
“We’re finding now that before (organiser Colin Thompson) had to source all the performers, but now they are coming to us wanting to be a part of it, which really shows we are building our name and reputation.”