Cared for at Golden Plains
After years of attending pub rock n roll gigs, somehow the whole music festival scene sailed by as we renovated, raised kids, renovated and renovated again. With encouragement from our two adult children, we attended the 18th Golden Plains festival. We were in experienced hands as our 30 year old guided us to a campsite in Outer Outer Space.
Approaching the Supernatural Amphitheatre, the chilled vibe and underlying energy of the crowd washed over us. Golden Plains at its heart cares for the environment. Set amongst undulating bushland, the festival minimises the impact of waste with a stringent recycling policy. There are 184 composting toilets requiring no water. Permanent showers have been built using water harvested on site. Our kids and their mates were so attendant as they guided a couple of wide eyed first timers through the heaving mass. And there he was, Obongjayar flaunting it and energising the passionate audience.
The vibe from the crowd was of respect, the antithesis of a pub mosh pit. And then it became one of reverence as Marlon Williams and his choir performed a spiritual, spine tingling set in te reo Maori. The Sup’ was transformed into a eucalypt framed cathedral.
Travelling through outer space on Sunday morning we wandered by PJ clad campers patiently queuing for the showers as the rising sun burnt off the low cloud. As we reclined on the grass in front of the stage, Uncle Barry led us with mirth and self-deprecation through stories across this land cared for by the original custodians. We became immersed in the landscape in a much more significant way.
The surrounds came to life as the chilled set of Way Dynamic kicked off the day. Between bands we strolled down to the bush camp for a sticky beak. The care from the hosts is reflected in the serenity of the early risers. The gentleness emanating from such a large crowd camping cheek by jowl sets the mood which builds steadily through the day to another evening of cracking stage choreography and pulsing rhythms.
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