Now in its seventh year, the festival has been a major success for the town, a collaborative effort by the members of the Mary Gilmore Society and local businesses to celebrate the life of the girl from Roslyn. 

Held on the weekend of October 26, the opening night will be at the Tea House and Art Gallery. There will be an art show exhibited by students from Crookwell High, and the event will be officiated by Louise Taylor, wife of MP Angus Taylor.

On Saturday there will be a jam session with an invitation to all of the poets, singers and musicians.

In the afternoon our local “Rising Stars” will hit the stage, said Trevene Mattox, president of the Mary Gilmore Festival. 

And hold on to your hats because on Saturday night, it is the Variety Concert and Champagne Supper, there will be a dance floor to jive on and supper.

“Last year the variety concert was terrific, attended by the performing youth. Some of these kids are on stage for the first time they’re all giving it a go, and its a great event to start performing,” said Mrs Mattox

The Variety Concert will include a wide range of entertainment; Irish music, bush traditions, Maggie Somerville, Goulburn Ukulele Band – GRUB, Louise McDonald and Don Brennan as MC. Further acts to be announced.

“It will be a good country mix, starting with a few outstanding youth from the shire.” said Mrs Mattox.

A special performance of the award-winning radio play, Henry Lawson’s The Loaded Dog, adapted for the stage will be performed by members of the local Country Women’s Association. 

Sunday is recovery and rest, 9 am breakfast, and show featuring balladeers, musicians and poets.