Last Friday, 11th December 2009 I had the honour of traveling to the outskirts of the country Victorian town of Meredith for this year’s Meredith Music Festival – now in its nineteenth year. With tent, inflatable mattress, battery-powered lantern and a minimal, style conscious wardrobe packed it was set to be the first of many enjoyable festivals in this idyllic location. I was intending to bring my Nikon D3000 to document ‘festival style’ but inspiration came and I’ve decided to show you a little of the journey we all went on. A very special thank you to Rohan Newman for driving the van through the countryside and back.

Matthew Badura, our all-round Meredith guide and history maker.

Festival of colour and light.

Victoria ‘Sweetie’ Zamora, a close friend from Sydney (looking sweet) and host on the community radio station FBi.

I was originally a little reluctant about SIA, but her performance changed my view – her vocals were true. She reminded me of my first love, who was, and still is a true fan of her music.

Maggie and Matthew having a little moment during ‘Breathe’.

The ferris wheel at sunset on Friday.

One of my highlights – Patrick Wolf. Watching him live a year or so ago had me rather hooked, and a little in love.

It was at this point on Saturday eve, whilst having a break at a friends campsite that I chose to switch off the camera and enjoy the music. Out of my favourites on Friday, Yacht stood out for their incredible, structured performance that bordered contemporary dance – nobody could look away. Tim Sweeney closed for an epic set of disco beats which left everybody exhausted and ready for a quick nap before another 19 hours of music over Saturday and Sunday.

After a quick camp wash, coffee and breakfast I came across these two lovers. Their mod oceanic-indian look was just enough to stand out.

Meredith Music Festival is child friendly and this couple made sure their little girl had everything she needed. She wins best dressed. Later, I saw her rocking out to Royal Crown Revue.

This gentleman, enjoying a G&T at the Pink Flamingo Bar inspired my love for boater hats. If anybody knows who he is, I’d like to propose marriage. Well done for looking so great after an entire night of revelry.

I was rather envious of the few who got this vantage point.

Later that eve, I caught up with M.A.F.I.A. and her girlfriend Larissa and rode the ferris wheel. This shot makes me smile.

And now, the Meredith history-making Toilet 29 Party. Meet at 1am on Sunday morning at Toilet 29, opposite the Sports Field (this is Aunty Meredith’s fancy toilet – one of many compost loos). Dress up, bring a drink and chant ’29′ till your heart’s content.

2am Sunday morning and time for M.A.F.I.A.’s set. I was front-row centre and ready to snap her up. She shocked the crowd and got ‘em getting down by playing Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston … hilarious!

During her time-slot, a friend Jeanette Le joined M.A.F.I.A. on stage donning her signature dinosaur suit.

A quick visit to the Pink Famingo bar to revive and prepare for another 4 hours of Bag Raiders, Nathan Fake & Henrik Schwarz.

Daylight and time for bed. Don’t worry Aunty Meredith, I’ll be back.

Mason Browne.