The three-day art, music and environment festival was first held in 1983 in response to an announcement that the Jackeys Marsh valley forests would be logged.

A core theme of the festival remains the protection of the Great Western Tiers as well as sustainability.

Co-ordinator Lisa Yeates said there was a buzz around the festival grounds as people set up their tents and coloured teepees yesterday.

The music also kicked off last night and continues today with highlights including Victorian bands Mista Savona and the Bombay Royale.

Ms Yeates said the festival was aimed at all ages, with a range of activities for children including instrument-making out of junk and scavenger hunts.

There is also a range of adult workshops such as sustainable living with Sean Manners, a discussion Q&A with The Great Disruption author Paul Gilding and a building-with-hemp-fibre session with Klara Marosszeky.

The festival features an art trail with 15 installations guiding people up to the foothills of Quamby Bluff.

Tickets are limited to 1000 patrons and can be bought at the gate, with online sales now closed.

They cost $50 for adults and $40 concession. Camping is free.

For more information or to view the program, visit www.forestfestival. org.

FACT FILE

WHAT: Jackeys Marsh Forest Festival.

WHERE: Jackeys Marsh.

WHEN: Today and tomorrow.

TICKETS: Adult $50, concession $40.

DETAILS: www. forestfestival.org.