Volunteers have rallied to relaunch Port MacDonnell’s Bay Escape Festival following a three-year hiatus caused by the combined impact of COVID-19 and dwindling volunteer support.

The festival’s organising committee has been revived, with 11 new members and a newly formed executive committee.

Ryan Donovan has remained with the committee as chair, with the group appointing Mary Mason as its new event coordinator.

Mr Donovan was pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Mason, who recently moved to Port MacDonnell.

“Mary is an energetic community volunteer who brings with her a wealth of experience in delivering local events and initiatives that help to showcase a local region,” he said.

“The committee also appointed Anne-Maree Johnstone as treasurer and Tegan McPherson as secretary with support from Ashlee Brion.

“Returning committee member Gary Jaffer has been joined by new members Cassie Arnold, David Soderblom, Jeff Feast, Michele Foster, Nyla Habets, Sophie Fairchild and Stephen Johnstone.

“The committee is now in full swing and looking to hold the event on Saturday, February 17.

“The desire of the committee is to harness the popularity from the 2020 event and to deliver an equally successful family event in 2024.

“We are trying to be realistic about what we can deliver as a new committee, while also keeping up with expectations from the previous success of the event.

“We have a passionate and engaged committee on board, who want to see the continued success of showcasing what Port MacDonnell has to offer.”

Previously known as the Bayside Festival, the Bay Escape underwent a major re-branding in 2019 based on valuable community feedback.

Mr Donovan said the event was launched with a focus on food, wine, and coastal themes, resulting in overwhelming success.

“As one of the Limestone Coast’s longest running festivals, the Bay Escape has been held annually at Port MacDonnell, serving as an all-ages street party featuring the best food, wine, vendors, and live music from renowned musicians in the region,” he said.

“Make sure you mark Saturday, February 17 in your calendar and stay tuned for details on what the Bay Escape Festival will bring in 2024.”

Email ptmaccommunity@gmail.com for further information.