It was a pleasure to volunteer on the main gate and greet locals and visitors to the Bellarine and Portarlington Mussel Festival.

As people entered, they were excited to see live music, market stall and enjoy good food. Some even told me they didn’t even like mussels, but knew they had plenty of other options and came to support the local community event.

Despite the rain, it did not dampen the spirits of festival goers, and it was a great atmosphere to celebrate our local food, drink, and makers.

In my official remarks I thanked all of the nearly 200 incredible volunteers who worked hard to create another successful event, as well as acknowledging outgoing president Richard Underwood and his family, who have put in an immeasurable number of hours to run this wonderful annual event for over 15 years.

After rocking out to The Queen Live tribute band, I enjoyed walking around the markets, viewing the art show and chatting with the locals.

It was the best of the Bellarine community on show.