BUDDING artists are being encouraged to showcase their talents to the public and enter a competition that could see them win two tickets to the 2024 Port Fairy Folk Festival.

The Port Fairy Busking Competition is set to run as part of the Street Fair being held over the March long weekend, with all performers encouraged to enter and demonstrate their skills on March 11.

The competition will give artists the perfect platform to perform in front of a live audience, as well as providing a stepping stone to gain invaluable performance experience.

Moyne Shire Council mayor, Karen Foster, said it was a fantastic opportunity for artists to perform for a large audience.

“We’re so proud to support local performers and this competition really highlights the talent in our region,” she said.

“The Labour Day Weekend is one of the busiest in Port Fairy, so it’s a great opportunity for buskers to get their name out there, share their music and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, while performing in front of a large crowd.”

The competition will involve a digital aspect this year with the audience voting for the winner via a QR code after watching each artist perform for 15 minutes.

“The winner will receive two tickets to next year’s Port Fairy Folk Festival – one of our most iconic music events, which attracts more than 10,000 people to the Moyne region,” Cr Foster said.

“This is a fantastic prize so I would encourage those interested to head online and fill in an application form.”

Cr Foster said entrants would also receive a busking permit for the weekend and are encouraged to take their performance to the streets.

Applications close Friday, February 10, with successful applicants being notified on Monday, February 27. Applications can be submitted at moyne.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Local-Laws/Folk-Festival-busking-permit-application