The Artists contributing to the local economy

Published on 11 December 2024

When it comes to building and supporting a local economy, local businesses and residents are often highlighted as the leading players; however, in Parkes, every year, more than a hundred musicians and their supporters arrive in town to entertain the tens of thousands of visitors who have come to see them.

Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) John Collins has been involved with the Elvis Express, the train that brings many fans to Parkes for the five-day Elvis Festival in the second week of January every year since 2010. The saying goes, "The Party doesn't start at the Parkes Elvis Festival … until the ELVIS EXPRESS ARRIVES". The party starts at 7 am at Central Station and goes on until it arrives at around 4 pm when thousands of people visit Parkes station.  "On that day after being up since 4.30 am, performing at Central, then on the train, then on to perform at the Parkes Bowling and Sports Club "Rock'n'Bowl" Dinner Show".

There are many people already in town having made their way here from all over the country by car and plane, landing at the local regional airport.  Some come during the first day; others arrive a few days before to prepare; one in early attendance is Mike Hague, the drummer of C.C. Band. He and the band arrive the day before the festival commences to ensure the set-up on the Main Stage in Cooke Parke is ready to Rock and Roll from minute one on the first day.  They check into their accommodation and spend the next few days entertaining us.  While they don't get dressed up in character, "we're on call from 9 am until 4 pm; it's hard work and very exciting, like a pilgrimage." When comparing the production quality to working with the TCB Band or Greg Page (the original Yellow Wiggle and devoted Elvis fan), he says, "As backing musicians, we're playing with a state-of-the-art system. We have to really test ourselves to be the best we can be, this is not a gig for the faint of heart".

Charlie Gaylard has been coming to Parkes for five years, and this year, he will be performing at the three new Happy Hour shows.  He says, "Being an ETA has been an incredible journey, allowing me to connect with fans and keep the King's legacy alive."  Being on the younger end of the age group of the ETAs, Charlie draws much attention for his performances, "Parkes Elvis Festival is the ultimate celebration of Elvis's joy and music. I'm over the moon to bring that excitement to the shows, and I know the Easy Come Easy Go theme will get everyone all shook up!"

Dean Vegas has been performing Elvis weddings for more than 20 years, and he officiates the Renewal of Vows Ceremony on Sunday under the 'Love Me Tender' arch. This opportunity comes only once a year at the festival, and he says, "I'm so looking forward to seeing and performing for everyone again." 

All these artists agree that "the Parkes Elvis Festival is the only place to be in January 2025!"