Wow. What a day I had at Peninsula Picnic. If I had written this review at around 6pm during the event, it would have looked something like this:
MISSY HIGGINS came onstage and then MISSY HIGGINS sang some really great songs by MISSY HIGGINS and MISSY HIGGINS and then MISSY HIGGINS. MISSY HIGGINS. I now like girls.
However, after my drive home listening to MISSY HIGGINS and after a cold shower I was able to write this balanced review:
The Peninsula Picnic, an annual food, drink and music extravaganza, took place on a glorious March day at the Mornington Racecourse. Before we even drove onto the premises I was already greeted by wafts of deliciousness – a promise of the culinary feast to come. Once there, we found ourselves in a wonderful green microcosm that was populated by colourful picnic rugs, dozens of food and drink stalls and, right at the centre, a rustic stage and home to some fantastic performers for the day.
The atmosphere was instantly welcoming with children running around, people of all ages lounging around with a glass of wine, snacking on a local delicacy and lazily listening to some great tunes. I myself got a yummy chicken dish with a basil salad from Red Hill’s The Long Table and paired this with a Pinot Grigio by Cape Schanck. The culinary variety at this event was impressive with stalls by Pope Joan, The Flinders Hotel and Montalto as well as Paringa Estate Winery, Prancing Horse and Circe (to name only a few).
But let’s not forget about the music. And what a line-up it was. Missy Higgins, Timberwolf, Kim Churchill, Darren Middleton and Ruby Whiting. So. Much. Talent. All sets started right on time (which pleased my German soul) and everybody sounded amazing. This was my first experience of Kim Churchill and it was just a pleasure to see him perform, he brought an incredible energy and youthfulness to the stage.
When Missy came on and played into the sunset, hands were held, people danced, children lifted their mothers onto their shoulders (you read that right) to get a better look. For a moment there I felt that the general mood of the event was a perfect reflection of the good things human nature has to offer: Love, community and creativity.
All up it was a magical day and I cannot wait to do it again.
-Claudia
Claudia B. is a German/Kiwi graphic designer and illustrator who has been living and working in Melbourne for the last four years. She enjoys a good glass of whiskey and the occasional pole dancing class.
The Peninsula Picnic takes place yearly in autumn at Mornington Racecourse. Follow them on Facebook to find when next year’s event will take place.
