Fusion19 success

Unseasonably cool weather couldn’t keep the crowds from Wagga Wagga’s premier celebration of live music, food and culture.

About 8000 people filled the Victory Memorial Gardens and Civic Precinct for Fusion19 on Saturday 19 October, sampling street eats from 30 countries and experiencing a diverse mix of performers and musicians.

“Fusion has grown to be one of the city’s biggest outdoor events, with more than 8000 people from the region and beyond soaking in the sights, sounds and flavours from across the world,” Council’s Director Community Janice Summerhayes said.

“This year featured another exciting and eclectic line-up, including headliners Kardajala Kirridarra, Thandi Phoenix, Hot Potato Band and Big Sky Mountain.

“As always, our multicultural street festival also featured community performances, pop-up shops and DJ sets – as well as kids’ activities including the popular Trash Puppets and 60s sci-fi inspired roving entertainers.”

This year’s Fusion also strived to reduce waste from single-use plastic products, with festival-goers feasting from compostable catering ware.

Ms Summerhayes said while Fusion is one of the premier festivals on the city’s calendar, the heart of the event is still in celebrating the many cultures and backgrounds that make up our community.

“Each year, Fusion showcases people from all backgrounds, faiths and language groups who make up our community,” she said.

“And for many of the food vendors, it’s not only a chance to share their traditional food with others, it gives them experience in running a small business or raises money for services or initiatives for their community.”

Fusion19 was presented and funded by Wagga Wagga City Council ($50,000) and made possible by Major Sponsor Riverina Water ($25,000). Fusion is also supported by Origin and our Cultural Partner the Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga and Media Sponsor The Daily Advertiser.