New Year's Day-lesford on The Balcony

NEW YEAR’S DAY-LESFORD ON THE BALCONY

It’s the best balcony in town.
It’s the one with the irresistible view of the sun setting out west.
It’s the New Year’s Day disco everyone wants to be at.

New Year’s Day-lesford on the Balcony goes up a notch in 2025 because we’re bringing in the big gun: DJ Joey Lightbulb.

Naarm-based selector, bastard love-child of Castlemaine and Daylesford, Lightbulb is on a heater right now.

You might recall him from the big gay Daylesford rave at Chill Out Festival three years ago (remember that Kylie and New Order mash-up?) and his wild 8-hour set for CIAOBOY.

This year, he sent the Supernatural Amphitheatre sideways at Golden Plains, playing Latino house, sleazy disco, and throwback hits by Renée Geyer, Chemical Brothers, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs that brought the crowd back to life on a 37-degree day.

Since then, he’s stayed hot—selling out three Night Cats in Fitzroy, throwing a wild party at the Retreat Hotel, and supporting The Presets, Chet Faker, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, and Tash Sultana at Live at the Gardens.

Most recently, he had everyone shaking it at Town Folk Festival in Castlemaine, playing hot and heavy into the evening as 4,000 people went bananas to remixes of David Bowie, Madonna, and Dua Lipa.

#BreakingNews: Lightbulb is open to requests! Slide into his Instagram DMs, and if it’s the right track, he might even get you behind the decks to Drop a Banger.

Hold onto your hats—Maureen Andrews is hitting the balcony and bringing the drama. At 3:00 p.m., she’s channelling the divine Bette Midler, belting out powerhouse ballads and sassy classics. Then, at 6:00 p.m., it’s a full-on transformation into Liza Minnelli—glitz, glamour, and that signature razzle-dazzle. With her unmistakable flair and cheeky charm, Maureen delivers a show that’ll have you laughing, clapping, and maybe even tearing up (don’t fight it—it’s Liza). This isn’t just a performance—it’s a moment. Balcony vibes, iconic tunes, and a crowd full of Daylesford energy. Miss this? You’re mad.

Sessions

Session 1: BACK IN THE GAME 12pm-4pm (feat. Bette Midler)
Hair of the dog, warm grooves, cool drinks, ample food.
Session 1 ticket holders must vacate the event by 4pm

Session 2: FULL SEND 5pm-9pm (feat. Liza Minnelli)
Harder. Better. Faster. Stronger.

All attendees must be 18 years or older. Please be prepared to present valid identification upon request.

(Picture this: Caprese-style sandwiches stacked with the good stuff, pillowy focaccia paired with Fiocco and Fior di Latte so fresh it practically sings. Oysters from Coffin Bay, SA, served up icy cold with a zesty Chardonnay granita that’ll transport you straight to the coast. Fancy a nibble? How about prawn cigars crisped to perfection or delicate blue swimmer crab and corn tarts that pack a flavour punch. And for the sweet finish? Campari sorbet & orange cups—equal parts zingy and refreshing.

On the liquid front, it’s a cocktail-lover’s dream. Classic Aperol spritzes to kick things off, Bloody Marys for that essential hair-of-the-dog moment, espresso martinis to keep the party vibes strong, and margaritas because, well, why not? Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or a cocktail newbie, the bar’s got you covered.)