Mayoral Matters | September 11, 2026

Published on 11 September 2026

We are so lucky to have so many events in Northern Grampians Shire, with so much to see and do.  

During the Father’s Day weekend, I headed to Halls Gap for the inaugural Grampians BBQ Festival, which brought together ‘Australia's top pitmasters, live blues and roots music, craft beer, small-batch spirits, smoky feasts and an unforgettable festival atmosphere’. 

I went out there on the Sunday and there was a fantastic crowd; I was told all the accommodation in Halls Gap had been completely booked out by festival-goers. 

With blue skies, delicious barbecue and great music it was a fantastic way to celebrate Father’s Day. It was great to see so many kids and families enjoying the weekend. 

A big shout-out to the organisers and volunteers for a very successful event. The number of people attending by far surpassed all expectations.  

If you could not make it this year, the festival will return in 2027. Make sure you mark it on your calendar as next year is sure to be bigger and better. 

On the Saturday, WAMA Halls Gap was also a hive of activity with the opening of Garden Sanctuary: Visions of Australian Flora: a new exhibition celebrating the richness and complexity of Australian Plant Life through the work of four contemporary artists.  

While I could not attend the opening, I was able to visit the exhibition on the Sunday following the Grampians BBQ Festival. 

If you get a chance, I encourage you to go and see this exhibition – it is one of my favourites.  

If you have not been before, WAMA includes the National Centre for Environmental Art; there are botanic gardens to explore, along with a café where you can sit, relax and enjoy the beautiful views. 

We are so lucky to have such fantastic and diverse events such these in our region, which bring people together and create lasting memories. 

Events support local businesses, but they also need our support. By supporting local events you are helping to strengthen community connections and to boost our local economy to help our shire to grow and prosper.  

Looking to run an event? Council offers support annually through the Tourism Events Grant program. 

The next round opens in March. Have a community event? Council also offers Community Events Grants for events that celebrate and connect the community. You can visit our website at Grant opportunities for more information about grant options. 

With warmer weather on the way, council’s community events calendar offers a wealth of options to keep residents entertained. 

For those of you with young families, council is offering a range of school holiday activities at Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre and Stawell and St Arnaud libraries. 

To view upcoming events listings, you can visit All Events Calendar. 

There is always so much to see and do in Northern Grampians Shire.