Local creatives invited to invigorate Mechanics Lane

Published on 22 August 2024

Mechanics Lane is coming to life over the warmer months and Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting the community to get involved.

Expressions of interest are now open for local musicians, performers, food vendors, market stall holders and community groups to set up and invigorate the space.

Mechanics Lane is located in the heart of Castlemaine, on the corner of Frederick Street and opposite the Castlemaine Library.

From November 2024 to April 2025, local creatives are invited to take over the space with music, art, food, activities and more, showcasing their talent and connecting with the wider community.

The Good Op Shop was one of the community groups to make use of the space last year.

“Mechanics Lane has such a great atmosphere,” said Tiff Inglis, The Good Op Shop’s Director.

“It's right in the centre of town, so easy to get to, but with the feel of a village.

“We found the application process so easy and want to thank the Council for making this space available to the community and for events.

“It was great having the upcycled fashion parade for young people in Mechanics Lane. The space felt welcoming and safe, and we had a lot of fun seeing young people express their style.

“If anyone is thinking of applying to use the Mechanics Lane site for an event – do it! Castlemaine and surrounds love an event to get their teeth into.”

Applications of all shapes and sizes are welcome, and suggestions include:

Workshops: dance, movement, circus
Share your expertise and passion for dance, movement or circus by hosting an interactive working for people of all ages and skill levels.

Musicians and DJs
Get the community up and dancing with live musical performances. Whether you’re a soloist, duet, ensemble, large band or DJ – any musical performance is welcome!

Open-air cinema
Organise a series of film nights and showcase local content, family-friendly movies, cult classics or blockbusters.

Markets
Host a vintage market or suitcase sale for all the treasure hunters in town.

Food Truck Fridays
Set up your food truck or stall to serve delicious food, beverages and sweets to the community.

Expressions of interest close on Sunday 8 September.

To find out more and apply, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Mechanics-Lane.

To ask questions, contact Sam Thomas, Council’s Creative Programs Officer, on 5471 1700 or at s.thomas@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

The use of the space on the corner of Mechanics Lane and Frederick Street is thanks to Telstra who’ve donated the space for community use.