Australia’s only Bond, George Lazenby, will be joined by internationally renowned thriller author, Fredrick Forsythe, for the return of SPYfest Goulburn: The Epicentre of Espionage, 16 – 18 September 2016.
Returning for the second year, and this year held over three big days, SPYfest is a celebration of all things spy, in tribute to Goulburn’s very own James Bond, George Lazenby. The festival offers something for the whole family, regardless of whether they’re Bond fans or not.
Lazenby is the only Australian to have played this iconic character, taken on the part of the world’s most dashing and famous spy in the 1969 film ‘On her Majesty’s Secret Service’. Born in Goulburn in 1939, Lazenby used his last British pounds on hiring a tailor-made suit from his predecessor Sean Connery’s tailor, and splurging on a Bond-esque Rolex watch to secure the role.
Lazenby is joined at this year’s SPYfest by Frederick Forsyth, English thriller writer and MI6 spy that is most famous for best sellers such as The Day of the Jackal, The Odessa File, The Fourth Protocol and The Dogs of War. Forsyth draws upon his experience as a spy in the British Secret Intelligence Service to craft his tales, laden with suspense and realism. With over 70 million book sales to his name, Forsyth frequents best-seller lists worldwide and over a dozen of his titles have been adapted to film.
“We’re thrilled to have George back for the second year in a row, as well as welcoming our new special guest, Frederick, as ambassadors for SPYfest. Goulburn is proud of its association with such an iconic and timeless franchise, which continues to resonate with the young and old today,” said Sarah Ruberto, Business Manager of Marketing, Events & Culture at Goulburn Mulwaree Council.
“This year’s SPYfest events are set to draw a crowd with the fun ranging from the fast-paced to the glamorous, much like the films themselves. Visitors can watch the classic cars from the films including the Aston Martin driven by George Lazenby in ‘On her Majesty’s Secret Service, or get glammed up and don their finest tux and Casino Royale-worthy fare for the Secret Agents Gala Dinner,” Sarah continued.
The Gala Dinner will feature the guests of honour, local wines and big band entertainment. For something a little different, visitors can also learn from those in the know by engaging in the modern art of surveillance as professional drone pilots offer mentoring sessions right from Seiffert Oval.
While there’s plenty to keep the Bond enthusiasts satiated, Goulburn will play host to a whole range of characters from this captivating genre from Agent 99 and Austin Powers, to modern heroes Jason Bourne and Spy Kids.
“SPYfest is an opportunity to showcase all of what Goulburn has to offer, and the support of local businesses is what makes this event a resounding success. We have local businesses temporarily renaming their businesses for the weekend – why not swing past Dye Another Day to tame your tresses, or get your script filled out at local chemist Licence to Pill. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Goulbourn,” Sarah concluded.
SPYfest takes place on the weekend of 16-18 September throughout Goulburn. Some events are ticketed, with limited places available. For more information on Goulburn visit www.goulburnaustralia.com.au