For the first time in its 24-year history, Koroit Irish Festival's search for the region's 'best flaming folk' is to take on a new life online.
The south-west Victorian town's festival attracts thousands to the tiny town outside Warrnambool each year.
Each year, the festival dishes out highly sought-after green, white, and orange sashes in events like 'the fastest potato peeler and packer' and 'the best Irish pizza'.
But this year's festival, like many others across Australia, fell victim to the coronavirus pandemic and was officially cancelled in March.
Less than a month on, organisers returned with good news — the show must go on.
A reduced one day only festival will be broadcast online in 2020 on the back of overwhelming community demand.
"It was so important for the town itself to keep the festival alive," said Koroit resident and organiser Adele McDonald.
"We thought if this is the only way that we can do it this year then, well, so be it. Next year, look out.
"We'll be looking back to the that's that's been and just celebrating with true Irish spirit knowing that we've all been through a lot with this whole dilemma.
"And we know if we can get through that, we can get through anything."
Artists have pre-recorded sets to be played throughout the day and people are being encouraged to film themselves celebrating the town's Irish heritage.
"This is our chance to add some real joy to people's lives during this crazy time," Mrs McDonald said.
"We are very excited to be able to provide this platform for everyone to celebrate our wonderful festival together."
Backroads bonanza
The coronavirus pandemic could not have come at a worse time for organisers.
In January the ABC's Back Roads program aired an episode celebrating the festival.
As a result sales went through the roof with pre-sale ticket sales doubling year-on-year.
"The program was a massive hit and has done our town wonders," Mrs MacDonald said.
"There's been a huge influx of people coming in and the town has benefited greatly."
Mrs McDonald says the groundswell of support has not gone unnoticed and was a big reason she decided the show must go on.
"The Koroit Irish Festival is such a loved festival and I just thought if we can't have everyone come to Koroit to celebrate we can give it to everyone online," she said.
"What we can do is have a virtual stage where people can sit back in the comfort of their own home and really celebrate and have a wonderful day doing all things Irish."
