Home of the Humpbacks is Ready to Celebrate!

Groove to an acclaimed Aussie songstress, grab a gourmet snag and gaze into an evening sky illuminated by hundreds of handmade lanterns – visitors are set for a whale of time when Australia's home of the Humpbacks celebrates the sea in a spectacular free community event on October 17.

Hervey Bay's annual Illumination Lantern Parade and Concert is shaping up as the brightest and most enchanting yet featuring a procession of mystical lights, performance from multi ARIA winner Ella Hooper, cooking from My Kitchen Rules stars Dan and Steph and much more.

Ella Hooper, of Killing Heidi fame, will headline a full-tempo finale to the big day. Having amassed four ARIAS and multiple top 10 hits with her band, Ella has embarked on a successful solo career and achieved national admiration as a radio personality and team captain on ABC television show Spicks and Specks.

Her infectious pop rock style is certain to leave a lasting impression on concert goers in an event that will also include performances from Brisbane band Faleepo FrancisCo and popular local artists Derek F Smith and Brandon Woods.

Meanwhile, celebrity chefs Dan and Steph from My Kitchen Rules will add some sizzle to proceedings, hosting a gourmet sausage stall at the concert and cooking demonstrations on stage from 6.30pm.

“We are excited to be a part of the signature Hervey Bay Whale Festival this year. It is such a great way to celebrate the importance of whales to the Fraser Coast so come on down and see us for a night of great food and entertainment”, said Dan.

Fraser Coast Councillor for Events, Sport, Recreation and Open Spaces, Darren Everard said this year's theme, “Celebrate the Sea” was designed to commemorate the communities' deep connection with the ocean.

“The Illumination Parade represents the annual migration of the humpback whales that return to Hervey Bay's pristine waters each year to rest and play,'' Cr Everard said.

“Hundreds of people will line the streets while community groups, families and individuals carry lanterns that light up the sky, winding their way through Seafront Oval where the day will culminate with a huge concert.

“It will be a magical time to be in Hervey Bay,'' he said.

The Illumination Lantern Parade and Concert is a family friendly FREE event, starting 4pm on Saturday, October 17, at Hervey Bay's Seafront Oval.

For further information visit: herveybaywhalefestival.com.au.