Permanent stage completed at James Park, Harcourt ahead of Applefest
Published on 06 March 2026
Mount Alexander Shire Council is pleased to announce the completion of a new permanent performance stage at James Park, Harcourt – delivered just in time for this year’s Harcourt Applefest.
The project has been made possible through the generous partnership and funding support of the following community organisations:
- Community Bank Maldon and District
- The Harcourt Valley Heritage and Tourist Centre
- Lions Club, Castlemaine
- Rotary Club of Castlemaine
- Mount Alexander Shire Council
This collaboration has enabled a much‑needed piece of community infrastructure that will support local events, gatherings, and recovery activities following the January fires.
The permanent stage has been designed to take advantage of the natural slope of James Park, creating a comfortable viewing area for audiences. It is fully accessible and built using durable, sustainable materials to ensure many years of community use.
As one of Harcourt’s most active public spaces, James Park already serves as a community hub for residents, families, volunteers and visitors. The new stage will expand opportunities for events such as Applefest, the community market, as well as Gather Harcourt, strengthening the park’s role as a welcoming focal point for local connection and outdoor activity.
James Park is also a popular rest stop for travellers, offering public amenities and parkland. The addition of the new stage provides an inviting place for families and visitors to relax, enjoy lunch and appreciate performances in a scenic setting. Combined with the nearby museum and green space, the precinct continues to grow as the heart of Harcourt.
Mount Alexander Shire Mayor, Toby Heydon, welcomed the milestone.
“This new stage is a fantastic outcome for Harcourt. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when community organisations come together with a shared vision.
“The stage will enhance Applefest and many other local events for years to come, providing a place for people to gather, reconnect and celebrate everything that makes Harcourt special. This is also another important addition to performing-arts infrastructure for the shire, providing a lovely space for artists in the heart of town”.
New all‑abilities toilet for Harcourt also completed
In addition to the stage project, Council has invested capital funding to deliver a new all‑abilities toilet with baby change facilities at Stanley Park North, also completed in time for Applefest.
Located beside the information sign and bike station – between the playground and the carpark – the facility will support local families, visitors to the park, and users of the La Larr Ba Gauwa Mountain Bike Park.