The Spirit of the Muster returns to Deniliquin on Wednesday 30 September, revving up the CBD with an impressive display of utes, live entertainment and activities for all ages.
Now in its third consecutive year, the Spirit of the Muster has become a popular prelude to the iconic Deniliquin Ute Muster - offering residents and visitors a free and inclusive opportunity to experience the excitement and community spirit that surrounds Australia's premier ute festival.
Running from 10am to 2pm, the event will transform Cressy Street and the Waring Gardens precinct into a hub of activity, featuring dozens of utes on display, live performances, family-friendly activities, community stalls and interactive experiences.
The event is proudly delivered by Edward River Council in partnership with the Deniliquin Ute Muster and Deniliquin Business Chamber, celebrating the cultural significance of the Ute Muster while encouraging locals and visitors to support local businesses and community organisations.
Deputy Mayor, Kellie Crossley said the Spirit of the Muster continues to strengthen the connection between the Deniliquin Ute Muster and the wider community.
"The Spirit of the Muster has become an important part of our annual events calendar and the perfect way to celebrate the unique culture and community spirit that make Deniliquin special," Deputy Mayor Crossley said.
"This event gives locals and visitors the opportunity to experience the excitement of the Deniliquin Ute Muster in the heart of our CBD, while supporting local businesses and community organisations."
Visitors can expect an impressive display of Show 'n' Shine vehicles from Ute Muster entrants, alongside a curated collection of utes presented by Instinct Media and local collectors.
The entertainment and activity program includes:
• Dozens of utes on display throughout Cressy Street
• REV Driving Simulator experience
• SWM Bucket Drumming activities in the Waring Gardens
• ERAS art activities and open gallery experiences
• Edward River Library's "Utes in the Garden" art display, showcasing ute designs created by local children
• Market and community stalls
• Live music and performances by Ellis Undercover
• A special performance by Australian country music star Amber Lawrence
• Lions Kiosk refreshments
• Visitor information and local guides provided by Peppin Heritage Centre volunteers
• And much more…
Acting Manager Community & Economy Chloe Sztejman said the event continues to grow through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to creating inclusive community experiences.
"Whether you're a long-time local, visiting from our neighbouring regions, or attending the Ute Muster; we encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the atmosphere, explore the activities on offer and discover everything our town centre has to offer.
"We can't wait to see Deniliquin buzzing with polished utes, great entertainment and people out enjoying our local businesses and community spirit," said Ms Sztejman.
Adding to the excitement, the Spirit of the Muster event will host the announcement of the winner of the Deniliquin Business Chamber's Spend and Win Campaign. Running across August and September, the campaign rewards shoppers for supporting participating local businesses, with entries going into the draw to win Ute Muster merchandise and shopping vouchers. The lucky winner will be drawn live on Edge FM at 12.30pm during the event.
In the lead-up to the iconic Ute Muster event, there will be a number of events running, including the new Open Streets Festival run by the Deni Ute Muster team, taking place on the evening of Tuesday 29 September. The Open Streets festival and the Spirit of the Muster event are designed to complement each other, with both providing unique opportunities for residents and visitors to experience Deniliquin's vibrant community spirit and celebrate Australia's iconic ute culture.
With Cressy Street closed to traffic from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday 30 September for the Spirit of the Muster event, visitors will be able to comfortably explore the ute displays, enjoy live entertainment, participate in activities and discover the many businesses and community groups that make Deniliquin such a vibrant place to live and visit.
Whether you're attending the Deniliquin Ute Muster or simply looking for a fun day out, everyone is invited to head into Deniliquin's CBD, see the pride and passion behind some of Australia's most impressive utes, enjoy the entertainment and experience a taste of Ute Muster fever before the main festival begins.
Spirit of the Muster
Date: Wednesday 30 September
Time: 10.00am to 2.00pm
Location: Cressy Street and Waring Gardens, Deniliquin
Cost: Free
