Sneaky UFOs sound good for gig at Lake George Winery

Lake George Winery owners Sarah and Anthony McDougall said they may cast a sneaky glimpse skyward while Sneaky Sound System perform their 2006 hit ‘UFO’ at the winery on 14 November.

“Lake George is renowned as a popular place for UFO sightings, so we can’t wait to hear them sing that song in particular when they play,” said Sarah ahead of the show which is part of a NSW Government initiative with ARIA to kick-start the recovery of the live music industry with 1000 COVID-safe gigs.

Vocalist Connie Mitchell and instrumentalist Angus McDonald are also looking forward to playing live again after the pandemic put the brakes on their touring schedule, including their regular spot in Bali.

“It’s been a tough few months and we can’t wait to get out there and blow off some steam,” said Connie.

Capped at 300 people, the show at Lake George Winery has already sold out its VIP tickets but general admission tickets are still available.

Sarah, who is about to relinquish her 12-month reign as 2019 owner-operator of the year at the Australian Women in Wine Awards, said the twilight show will be a great opportunity to get out and enjoy the winery’s 150-hectare property overlooking Lake George.

“As one of Australia premier dance acts, we’re stoked to have Sneaky Sound System booked.

“Sneaky Sound System is only performing two gigs as part of the Great Southern Nights, and we were excited that they choose Lake George Winery as the other venue,” said Sarah.

“We are encouraging people to bring their picnic blanket, enjoy our award-winning wines and enjoy the local feast on food on offer.

“Chef James from Create Catering is whipping up some barbecue meats to really showcase what he can do.

“Our wine, of course, will be served and we will be launching our new sparkling white in the traditional method, as well as our famous gin and elderflower cocktails.”

The gig will also be supported by two local acts Michael Liu and Ashley Feraude.

Busses leave from Canberra Theatre from 2:30 pm and seats must be booked. There is also a free shuttle for Collector residents or anyone staying in the town.

Food and drink will also be available for purchase.

Sarah said while dancing is still not allowed due to NSW Health restrictions, people attending should keep an eye on the winery’s social media channels in case those regulations are relaxed.

“It will be a COVID-safe event and we’re adhering to the NSW Health restrictions. People’s safety is top of our mind so we’ve hired Mark from Strategic Protection and his team as they just came off working the ski fields and are across COVID-safe measures,” she said.

Sarah also said the show will be the perfect way to mark what has been a difficult year.

“2020 for us has been a disaster with drought and then smoke taint, then COVID, so this concert is all about focusing on getting back out there and showcasing what we can do, as well as getting everyone to have a safe and good time,” Sarah said.

“We are encouraging people to jump on the bus and head out to join us for an afternoon of tunes in and around the winery.”

The show is on Saturday, 14 November from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Tickets are $75 to $85 with bus tickets available for $35 one way.

For more information, visit the event page and buy tickets here.