General News
11 April, 2025
Festival full steam ahead
Warracknabeal was the chosen one to welcome guests for the opening night of the Wimmera Steampunk Festival on Saturday, April 5, at The General Store.
For a taste of elegancy and steampunk fever, guests were treated to a night of wonder filled with live music provided by Jamie Horton and a sophisticated burlesque performance by the one and only DeeDee Lighting, aka Kirsty Keys.
"It's something different," Festival organiser Chan Uoy said.
"This is the first year we've included other shire, which is exciting."
Venue owner Belinda Miller said the night was an "astounding success" enjoyed by all, with some even taking the opportunity to dress up to match the steampunk theme.
"I have done events previously but not with this many moving parts before or to the extent, such as lighting and sound," she said.
"This was also the first fully licenced event at The General, where we had a bar running for the first time alongside our kitchen.
Ms Miller said they had around 80 people attend the night.
"Although it would have been great to get more people through the door, the main thing is that the customer experience was wonderful with all elements of the night running smoothly," she said.
"This event has shown me and those who attended how truly amazing a venue it is when everything comes together and is something very unique to the region."
The Flight of Fantasy exhibition of the miniature hot air balloons created by children around the region decorated the venue.
"The Exhibition will be on display until after Easter, giving everyone a chance to come see."
Steampunk activities are well and truly underway, with many commencing throughout the week in the lead-up to the costumed street party tomorrow night from 4.30pm.
The General Store is available for hire for all types of events and functions.
Any enquiries can be made via email at wgeneralstore@outlook.com.
