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.
Sonic Arcana, Saturday 23 November, 7.00pm to late
Electronic music performed live by Joel Pearson, Luqman Latif, and Sooji, presented by Milk Thistle Records. Each artist will share new original work in the open-air setting from dusk into the evening, in styles ranging from ambient/abstract to uptempo dance music. Food by Konjo Mama.
Club Unity, Saturday 14 December, 5.00pm to late
Club Unity is a street party where everyone is welcome! We invite you to come along and dance, to express solidarity through the appreciation of music. Celebrating unity and togetherness. Line-up includes Luqman, Joel Pearson, Monica Santos (Argentina) and Giovanni Riveros (Peru), Coterra, and DJ Jen Moore. Food by Lucha Libre and bar by Castlemaine Fringe Festival.
Street Latin Dance/Summer Salsa, Saturday 18 January, 7.00pm to late
Your chance to dance and groove to vibrant Latin music! In this group class, you'll learn simple salsa steps and put them into action with some of the best Latin tunes. Expect a fun, energetic atmosphere with expert guidance from top-notch instructors. A brief performance will showcase what you can aspire to, and then it’s your turn to dance the night away. No experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy!
Sound Journey for the Soul, Sunday 19 January, 7.00pm to 8.00pm
This is a one-hour sound event - a meditative sound journey to the realms of deep relaxation, contemplation and wellbeing. Experience the soothing soundscapes of gongs, singing bowls and monochord. Let the body, mind and emotions be immersed in resonant frequencies and rhythms and allow a greater sense of ease and peace to flow. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket or cushion to sit on or to lie down, and a water bottle.
Gecko, Saturday 1 February, 7.00pm to 9.00pm
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.
Seal Prince and the Roof Rats/Thea Lang, Friday 7 February, 7.00pm to 10.00pm
Seal Prince and the Roof Rats are an emerging folk/rock band from the Geelong region. Their songs explore themes such as wildness, love, masculinity and place-making, giving voice to the ongoing social and environmental struggle in suburban Geelong as well as the beauty and resilience of their place and community on Wadawurrung country. Joining them is friend and local Castlemaine songsmith, Thea Lang, as well as the Living In Connection Choir.
aplegate, Friday 14 February, 7.00pm to 10.00pm
Five piece band based in Castlemaine and Naarm/Melbourne, drawing inspiration from psychedelic rock, jazz and the experimental jam band scene. Live performances manifest as a continual fluid set. Equally at home in a bush doof or a packed club, aplegate’s live improvisation, interwoven with melodic and moving arrangements, draws energy from the audience and leaves them wanting more.
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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.