Bendigo’s talking trams turned musical at the weekend, with musicians performing on board ahead of the Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival.
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The historic tram that left the Central Deborah Gold Mine at 2pm on Saturday was rocking more than usual.
Musicians Talisa Jobe and Shannon Bourne played their mix of blues music to a crowded tram.
Mr Bourne said it was a great atmosphere for a gig.
“I’ve played on the Queenscliff blues train before but these old trams are really good,” he said. “The crowd were having a good time; it’s always good to play somewhere a bit different.”
Tram driver George Morrison said the soundtrack was a nice change from the talking tram voiceover.
“It’s usually a standard tape, but this time it was up to the performers to supply the entertainment.”
Ms Jobe said the old trams offered a great environment to perform in.
“I’m normally stationary when I’m playing, but this was more fun. People were in really good spirits.”
One of the organisers of the festival, Julius Porlai, said the event was a preview of the Blues & Roots Music Festival.
“We’ll be back during the festival with bigger trams and more performers,” he said.
“It’s great for Bendigo – it gives us a point of difference, using the old trams, the local food and local craft beers and some great music.”
The blues trams will be back throughout the festival from Friday, November 9, through to Sunday, November 11.
Passengers can enjoy a relaxed gourmet buffet meal before the tram’s departure.