MEET THE TEAM – TRACEY DALTON

When did you start and what do you do at the Folkie?

I began volunteering many years ago, helping out in various areas, including the iconic Lolly Trolley, which was always lots of fun! In 2023, I joined the committee, and I’ve been serving as Secretary ever since. My role involves supporting all the different portfolios wherever I can, which I absolutely love. It gives me the opportunity to contribute to so many aspects of the festival and stay connected to the heart of what makes the Folkie so special.

What’s your favourite Folkie memory?

There are so many unforgettable moments, from Peter Garrett lighting up a packed Shebeen with his signature moves, to the mesmerising Tibetan Monks performing in the basketball stadium years ago. I’ve loved discovering artists I’d never heard of who completely blew me away. But it’s the personal moments that really stay with me. Watching the joy and emotion on my husband Harry’s face as Graham Nash sang the soundtrack of his childhood was incredibly moving. And if I had to choose just one ultimate favourite? It would have to be seeing my daughter, Evie Mae, step out onto the big stages as part of our ‘Future Folk’ program. It truly doesn’t get much better than that.

What’s one thing people wouldn’t guess about your role?

Most people don’t realise that the Folkie is a year-round project! The planning for the next festival begins almost the moment the current one wraps up. It’s a continuous, team-driven effort that takes dedication and passion from everyone involved. What might surprise people even more is just how much joy and fulfilment this role brings. Being part of such an incredible team, more like a family, really, is something truly special. It’s not just about organising a festival; it’s about being part of something that brings people together in the most magical way. It’s a privilege that I never take for granted.

What’s your go-to Folkie food or drink?

Dutch pancakes with chocolate sauce, no contest. They’re my Folkie fuel!!

What’s a song or artist that reminds you of the Folkie?

It’s not really one particular song or artist, there are just too many to choose from! For me, it’s more about a feeling. I live close to the Arena, and on a calm, clear evening in Port Fairy, when the first light flickers on and the sound of the first soundcheck drifts through the air, that’s Folkie to me. That’s the moment the hairs stand up on my arms and the excitement truly kicks in.

What’s the most rewarding part of being involved?

On Friday night, when I step into the Arena and see the crowds streaming in , faces glowing with joy and anticipation, I feel this deep sense of pride, to know I’ve played even a small part in the enormous team effort that brings the Folkie to life is incredibly special. But what truly moves me is watching the site come to life, from the very first day of bump-in to the final pack-down. The camaraderie, the laughter, the unwavering commitment of the crew is nothing short of extraordinary. Seeing what we build together, year after year, fills me with a sense of belonging and purpose that’s hard to put into words. It’s more than a festival, It’s a family, and I’m so grateful to be part of it.

What’s your Folkie survival tip?

Sensible footwear—no question about it! Trust me, blisters are not a vibe. Your feet will thank you, and you’ll still be dancing on Monday!

If the Folkie were a person, how would you describe them?

To me the Folkie would be that old friend you can’t wait to see every year, the one who gives you a big, warm hug the moment you arrive. They’re comforting, familiar, full of stories, and somehow always manage to surprise you with something new. You leave feeling better than when you arrived, already counting down the days until you see them again.

What’s something you’ve learned from working on the festival?

I’ve learned just how much goes on behind the scenes, something I never truly understood before being involved. As a punter, a volunteer, and a proud Port Fairy local, I always loved the buzz in the lead-up to the festival, the town’s excitement, the anticipation, and then the post Folkie blues when you realise you have to wait a whole year to do it all again. I was always grateful to those who made it happen, but I had no idea of the scale of work involved. Now, having seen it from the inside, I’m constantly in awe of the dedication, planning, and passion that goes into creating the magic people experience the moment they walk through the gates.

What are you most excited about for the next Folkie?

I’m so excited to be working with our ever-growing team to help deliver the best Folkie yet! There’s nothing like the buzz of discovering new and exciting artists to follow, and I can’t wait to see all the site improvements we’ve been working on come to life. Watching it all spring into action is such a thrill, and then, just as we catch our breath, we’ll be gearing up to make it even bigger and better for the upcoming 50th in 2027. Bring it on!

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