General News
11 October, 2025
Is this the end of the Golden Gateway Festival?
ARARAT’S Golden Gateway Festival will not go ahead in 2025 after the committee was unable to gain enough community support.
President Murray Wood told the Advocate this week it was a disappointing outcome.
“We were all very disappointed with the very little support we got from the community, therefore this year we are unable to proceed with the festival,” he said.
While the festival itself is on hold, the festivals annual variety concert will continue as a standalone event.
“We had expressions from people that they wanted the variety concert, so that’s what we’ll be running,” Mr Wood said.
“We’ll also support the other events that were sponsored by the committee, but that’s all we will be running for this year.”
The committee hopes locals will step up to ensure the festival’s return in the future.
“Hopefully we’ll get a few more community people to help us get it back on deck next year, otherwise the festival will go forever,” Mr Wood said.
The Variety Concert will be held on Sunday, October 19.
Anyone interested in performing, singing, dancing, playing an instrument, or showcasing another talent, is encouraged to contact Melissa Perry (0409 253 276) or Peta Chaplin (0456 558 942).
The shows start time will be confirmed once the acts are assembled.