Let there be light: Installations like this flower form just one part of the popular Moama Lights, which began its month-long run at Horseshoe Lagoon on Friday. Photo: Michael Lloyd.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
Moama Lights took centre stage on Friday night, kicking off its 2023 run with a strong crowd enthralled by an amazing light and sound show.
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The award-winning event is now into its third year, featuring stunning light installations and projections showcasing the beauty and stories of the region.
Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung man Damien Saunders conducted the smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country, allowing visitors to participate in an ancient ritual before the event.
Grand opening: Murray River Mayor Chris Bilkey welcomes the attendees.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
“It's a beautiful event, a light and sound show among the world's biggest and oldest river red gum population," Mr Saunders said.
"A smoking ceremony is important as it acknowledges my ancestors and, in turn, protects visitors while walking through my land and showing respect for Elders from the past. It's about purifying one's soul before they enter the land.“
Guiding light: This way home.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
Murray River Mayor Chris Bilkey officially opened the event, where he acknowledged the traditional owners, special guests and councillors before unveiling the event for 2023.
Remarkable: Light installations line the paths of Horseshoe Lagoon.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
“Last year the event injected eleven and a half million dollars into the community. And thanks to Transgrid and other sponsors the event doesn’t cost local ratepayers any money. Events such as these are important as the visitors support our local businesses, such as restaurants, shops and hotels which makes it a great event for the economy.” Cr Bilkey said.
“Last year, people from all over Australia attended this event. We even had 250 visitors from the US visit the region while Moama Lights was on last year.”
“Events such as these are important as the visitors support our local businesses, such as restaurants, shops and hotels, making it a great event for the economy.”
“The people who are running this event (Mandylights) really know their stuff. They also operate the Vivid event in Sydney, and the feedback we got from the first two years was spectacular. We hope to build on it this year.”
Once again, the iconic red gum bushland and the Murray River are illuminated using sound and lighting for an authentic and immersive experience.
A success: Chris Bilkey and Yorta Yorta Dja and Dja Wurrung man Damien Saunders enjoy the opening of Moama Lights.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
A joint venture between Murray River Council and Visit River Country, Moama Lights will run over four weekends from Thursday to Sunday, with tickets sold in sessions.
Moama Lights entry is $20 for adults, $10 for children (three to 16 years), $50 for family (two adults and two children), and children under three are free.
Stunning: A delight for the senses.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
The Moama Lights showcase runs from June 30 to July 23. For more information and to buy tickets, head to https://www.123tix.com.au/events/37403/moama-lights
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