Set for 2010 Whale Festival

Torquay State School students, including Eddie Cunning (front, left) and Kurtis Eason at work on their float which will be part of the Fraser Coast Chronicle Illuminated Street Parade this Saturday.

Alistair Brightman

A CONCERTED focus on the protection of the world's whale population will underline this Saturday's Hervey Bay celebrations.

The 2010 Whale Festival has a serious side with conservation the name of the game.

All proceeds from the inaugural Live Whale Aid concert at Seafront Oval will go to the Oceania Project and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

A gold coin donation is all that is required for admission to the 12-hour high energy concert which starts at 10am and brings a host of live performers to the Bay.

Among the performers will be The Emily Wenham Band eponymously fronted by a Hervey Bay native.

Emily, who cut her musical teeth at Hervey Bay High School, is relishing the opportunity to perform original music in front a hometown crowd.

“Since forming the band I have only performed in front of my home crowd once, on Australia Day this year,” she said.

“It was a fantastic feeling and we can't wait to be a part of the Whale Festival.”

Having grown up in Hervey Bay, it is hardly surprising that Emily (pictured) is passionate about whale conservation.

“Growing up around the sea and being a surfer I've got a huge respect for the ocean and its amazing wildlife.

“Anything we can do to help and raise awareness we are excited to do.”

Also on the Seafront Oval bill will be grassroots group A French Butler Called Smith, groove outfit Kooii, Kinfisha, Asa Broomhall, The Green Room, The Flumes, The Brett Orr Band, Adam Scriven and, fresh from an appearance on Australia's Got Talent, The Twine.

Also making a special appearance on the Live Whale Aid stage will be renowned Qld conservationist Bob Irwin.

Saturday's Illuminated Street Parade, sponsored by the Fraser Coast Chronicle, will also include a strong green theme.

A new eco-friendly category has been added this year with $1000 on offer for the parade's outstanding float created with recycled materials.