Mechanics Lane
Mechanics Lane is located in the heart of Castlemaine, on the corner of Frederick Street and opposite the library.
It’s an outdoor space that runs live music, performances and community events.
For more information contact Sam Thomas, Creative Programs Officer, on 03 5471 1700 or s.thomas@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.
The use of the space on the corner of Mechanics Lane and Frederick Street is thanks to Telstra.
Mechanics Lane summer program 2024-2025
Local musicians and artists are taking over the public space in the warmer months with live music, performances and DJs, a dance class, sound healing, and more.
Coming up
Gecko, Saturday 22 March, 6.30pm
Gecko is a female-led kickass alt-rock trio, blending together fundamentals of punk, rock and jazz to create their unique sound. Drawing inspiration from their own musical influences the band explores each others’ odd experiences and chaotic energy in their song writing and blends punky and velvety vocals alongside punchy riffs and catchy melodies.
Past performances in 2024-2025
- Sonic Arcana - live electronic music
- Club Unity - street party
- Street Latin Dance/Summer Salsa - dance class
- Sound Journey for the Soul - meditative sound journey
- Seal Prince and the Roof Rats - folk/rock band
- aplegate - five-piece band
Public art in Mechanics Lane
The Mechanics Lane temporary public art program supports local artists to create new visual arts experiences in a well-visited local laneway.
About the artworks
Julie Millowick
Since 1988 Julie Millowick has been documenting the long-term impact of the 1850’s gold rush on the Central Victorian environment. Using film, digital and vintage techniques Julie explores the innate beauty of the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, mining remains, the millennium drought, contemporary domestic locations and the challenging co-existence of the kangaroo and human populations. The centrepiece of this exhibited work is an image of Steph and Richard Holt on the site of the 1882 death, in a collapse at the Ferrons Reef mine, of family member Sampson Thomas.
Several of the images displayed on the Mechanics Lane wall are included in Surrounding, a 155 page book available from the Castlemaine Art Museum or via her website. Castlemaine Library has a copy.
https://juliemillowick.com/
This project was a part of the Head On Photo Festival Open Program exhibition.
Julie would like to thank: Sam Thomas, Creative Programs Officer, Mt Alexander Shire Council, Phillip Virgo and The Colour Factory.