WARM-UP: The Black Diamonds perform at Bendigo Station in preparation for the Castlemaine State Festival. Picture: JODIE DONNELLAN
The Black Diamonds gave travellers at Bendigo Station a taste of the Castlemaine State Festival on Wednesday.
The quirky band intrigued onlookers as they boarded their afternoon train.
With 13 days until the festival begins, there is a growing demand for show and V/Line rail tickets.
The biennial festival attracted more than 40,000 people in 2011, and organisers are expecting the same this year.
Public Transport Minister Terry Mulder said travelling with V/Line to Castlemaine was one of the easiest ways for people to experience the festival, with most shows within walking distance from the station.
V/Line acting chief executive Ross Pedley said V/Line was proud to be a part of the event which bought new audiences to the region.
Castlemaine State Festival director Martin Paten said the 10-day festival was one of Castlemaine’s biggest and best events. “There are about 350 artists from around the country and the world who will descend on the town,” he said.
He said visitors would be able to see things they wouldn’t see anywhere else in the world.
For more information about the festival visit www.castlemainestatefestival.com.au