Thoroughfare labelled a resounding success

Launceston's brand-new free street art festival Thoroughfare was a resounding success, transforming the CBD into a vibrant celebration of creativity, music, food and community on Saturday.

With laneways and streets filled with large-scale murals, live music, skate demos, and familyfriendly activities, Thoroughfare drew an estimated 10,000 people into the CBD throughout the day.

St John Street served as the bustling central hub, while artists brought new life to surrounding laneways including Tatler Parade, Centreway Arcade, Dicky Whites Lane and the Quadrant Mall.

Artists included Jasmine Crisp, Mel McVee, Aleks Crossan, Tom O'Hern, George Kennedy, Jamin & Luke Emmerton, Claire Foxton, Matt Adnate, Creature Creature, Sam Dobransky, Maggie Jeffries & Alex Moss and Katie Barron.

The main stage delivered a packed program of live music featuring local favourites Sumner, Queenie, Grace Chia, Emi Emi, Captain O’Brien’s Craic, The Bad Dad Orchestra, Luneward and more.

Food stalls from World Street Eats offered a diverse range of cuisines, while Launceston’s CBD eateries and bars were buzzing with visitors. Skate culture was on show with live demos and a halfpipe, and families enjoyed hands-on activities including puppet-making workshops and temporary tattoos.

Many local shops joined the celebration with special sales and in-store activations.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said the overwhelming turnout showed strong community appetite for high-quality, free cultural events.

"Thoroughfare exceeded all expectations," Mayor Garwood said.

"From the incredible street art and high-energy music to the fantastic food and family activities, the day truly brought our city to life.

"Seeing thousands of people — locals and visitors alike — enjoying our laneways and public spaces was fantastic. This festival has set a new benchmark for creative events in Launceston.

"Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many already asking me when the next Thoroughfare will be held.

"While we haven't made a decision about future Thoroughfare events yet, that is something we'll begin to consider in the months ahead.

"The City of Launceston extends its thanks to the artists, musicians, food traders, volunteers, sponsors, and community members who came along and made Thoroughfare such a memorable day."