Travel: we’re all gagging to do more of it. That being said, we’ve all been guilty of neglecting the easiest option at our disposal to facilitate it – y’know, that whole “keeping it local” thing.
Yes, a road trip is an ace way to hit reset on your deteriorating view on existence. They’re easy to organise, cheap and severely underrated. But given that we’re practically able to embark on one whenever we want, it’s no small wonder we become a tad lethargic when contemplating arranging one. So, what can you do to light a fire under your mates to get you out on the wide, open road? Have your trip coincide with an epic festival.
Using Sydney as a starting point, we’ve compiled a list of festivals for your consideration – as well as great places to stop while you’re embarking on ’em.
BROKEN HEEL FESTIVAL
WHERE: 227 Argent Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880
WHEN: 08/09/2017 – 10/09/2017
MORE INFO: HERE
Folks, this is an event you’ll never want to miss. Broken Hill was the spot where the iconic flick Priscilla Queen of the Desert was filmed, putting the lil’ ol’ town squarely on the map. To celebrate its inclusion into the pop culture hall of fame, Broken Hill runs the Broken Heel festival – with some of the event’s sites including the Palace Hotel, Silverton Hotel and the Silver City itself. Expect comedy, opera, live music and, well, the best time of your life.
STOPS ON THE WAY
Mudgee
Just like most of the best pockets in NSW, you’d be a damn fool to head anywhere near Mudgee on a full stomach. The food and wine selection here is insane. If you love yourself a good hit of cheese, then make sure you swing past High Valley Wine and Cheese Co or Leaning Oak Wine and Cheese (or both).
DENI UTE MUSTER
WHERE: Conargo Road, Deniliquin Festival Site, Deniliquin NSW 2710
WHEN: 29/09/2017 – 30/09/2017
MORE INFO: HERE
Road trips are all about getting to know the roots of your country, right? Take it that step further by getting around the Deni Ute Muster. It’s one of the most true blue events Australia has to offer – with its core offerings of the Guinness World Record breaking Ute muster and Blue Singlet Count. Yep, we’re talking nek-level Aussie vibes, folks. On the music front, this year’s lineup includes Lee Kernaghan, Shannon Noll, The McClymonts, Beccy Cole, Sara Storer, Sunny Cowgirls, The Wolfe Brothers and more. Oh, and given that there are fireworks, a ute show ‘n shine competition, bull-riding spectacular (read: rodeo), trade and catering stalls, the NSW Whip Cracking Championships, woodchopping demonstrations, helicopter rides, a legit circus, camel rides and AFL on the big screen, we reckon the Deni Ute Muster is sounding pretty bloody decent.
STOPS ON THE WAY
Yass
Yassssssssssssssss to the beautiful Yass Valley in southwest NSW. Our suggestion is to spend the night so you can get around some of its iconic wineries without, y’know, losing your license. While you’re in the area, check out the gawjus Careys Cave for some stellar ‘Gram content.
Wagga Wagga
Hungry? You better be if you’re heading to Wagga Wagga and its surrounds. Must-sees/eats include Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory and Coolamon Cheese Factory, both of which are just a short drive from the town.
MTV BEATS & EATS
WHERE: Stuart Park, George Hanley Drive, North Wollongong, NSW 2500
WHEN: 18/11/2017
MORE INFO: HERE
MTV Australia knows that when you combine great music with great eats, goddamn magic happens. MTV Beats & Eats is back this November for a third time, and as per usual, you can expect big things from its lineup – both in terms of bangers and bites. SACHI, FlexMami, Nicole Millar, Yolanda Be Cool and Tkay Maidza are all coming to party in Wollongong with even more acts joining the line-up soon. This year’s theme is Space Fantasy with cold hard cash prizes for the best dressed so gird your loins for food and tunes so good, you’ll have an otherworldly experience.
STOPS ON THE WAY
Wollongong
If you’re adding MTV Beats & Eats onto your to-do list, then we suggest driving straight for the ‘Gong. For the uninitiated, Wollongong is where it’s at for those keen on all things beach-related. Be sure to suss Austinmer Beach and Bulli Beach if that’s your vibe. Keen for something less sandy? Head over to the Scarborough Hotel, a pub with an art gallery and bangin’ ocean views from its garden.
VANFEST
WHERE: Show Street Forbes Showground, Forbes NSW 2871
WHEN: 01/12/2017 – 02/12/2017
MORE INFO: HERE
Oh, Vanfest. Always delivering the g-times. For those who haven’t heard of it, Vanfest is one of NSW’s finest music-led offerings. This year’s lineup includes Amy Shark, Dune Rats, Thundamentals, San Cisco and Tash Sultana – so yeah, book this one in. In true Aussie festival style, there will be two-day camping options available for those chasing the authentic experience. Other notable elements include market stalls, inflatable water slide, beach bars and more.
STOPS ON THE WAY
The Blue Mountains
Unless you’ve been living under a rock the collective size of this range, you’ll know why you need to stop at this beautiful location. It’s beautiful. As in, World Heritage Listed beautiful.
There’s a whole heap of things happening right in your backyard, so there’s really no excuse for not getting out there and amongst it. Suss out even more options on Destination NSW’s website HERE.
Happy driving, crew.
