Audiences enjoyed arts, culture, music and ideas throughout the seven-day festival, as it launched with a private exhibition party overflowing with the who’s who of Central Coast professional, government and local business leaders. Later, things opened to the public with DJs and art under the spotlight. Thirty five per cent of all the local artists’ works sold on the launch night.

Seventy per cent of the ticketed events across Gosford, Ettalong, Woy Woy and Umina, including the cabaret and dance party, were completely sold out.

“We are so very honoured in the support, attendance and love as the festival continues to grow and evolve as an original and locally-made festival leading the way,” Festival Director Glitta Supernova says. “Delivering something new, authentic and local can bring locals together and new visitors to the region, which have this year come from across the nation from over 200 Australian postcodes which is mind-boggling.”

Image © Syl Marie

Coastal Twist Festival is now in its third year, already a much-loved, original, quirky Australiana beachside experience. It was selected by the State Government last year as one of a handful of festivals demonstrating early success and attracting good audience numbers

Due to an extremely hot Sunday, Fair Day took a slight hit with numbers, but there was still a huge 6,500 attendees braving the sun, winds and sandstorm to celebrate a magical day of celebrations. Police reported no festival-related incidents.

More than 90 per cent of attendees surveyed, reported they’d recommend the festival to friends and family. Meanwhile, up to 30 per cent said they had come to the coast for one night or more across the festival.

Coastal Twist 2023 took place from 26 September-2 October.