Port Fairy Folk Festival Names New Program Director Ahead Of 40th Year

The 2016 Port Fairy Folk Festival this March will be a fittingly oversize affair — it's not only the event's 40th birthday this year, but the impending event will mark the final curation by Program Director Jamie McKew, with organisers today naming Caroline Moore as his replacement. 

This year's event will present 100 acts — including the likes of Archie Roach, Ash Grunwald, Anatole Road and Aine Tyrrell — across 18 venues in over 200 shows, spread over four days from 11-14 March.

Evidently, McKew — who announced his retirement back in November — is committed to putting on another memorable show before he bows out for good, highlighting his years of service and dedication to the festival and the region, a history that was spotlit by festival President Bruce Leishman in a statement.

“Jamie has led the way in directing and delivering festivals of note," Leishman said. "The passion he has for music and the festival is significant. Under his stewardship, he, along with the Committee and the community, ha[s] ensured that Port Fairy Folk Festival is regarded as one of the finest folk music festivals in Australia and indeed the world.

"On behalf of the committee I would like to thank him for his extraordinary years of service, not only to the festival, but to the region, musicians and audiences alike.”

Leishman was equally effusive about the future prospects for the event following Moore's commencement in the role: “Caroline brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise in the arts and music industries, including Melbourne Fringe, Melbourne International Jazz Festival and Apollo Bay Music Festival, as well as having established venues and working as a producer and promoter for touring national and international artists for more than 20 years. Importantly, she has a demonstrated commitment to our region and an understanding of the important roles music and the Port Fairy Folk Festival play in the community and the cultural lives of us all.
 
“We are excited about the future as we believe Caroline will continue to build on the success of the festival with integrity and creativity," Leishman said. "Caroline joins an outstanding and talented team including Sandy Brady and Robyn Stewart. We look forward to  the next stage of this magnificent event, and to seeing you all at the festival in a month where we can celebrate the achievements of Jamie and welcome Caroline to the team.” 

Port Fairy Folk Festival has sold out for 2016, reaching capacity on Friday, 19 February. The PFFF Ticket Exchange Program goes into action via the festival's website. 

Also on the itinerary of special events and programs including the Port Fairy Tales Project where punters can post their favourite festival moment and photograph submitted via email or web.