The Voice runner-up Mick Harrington will headline the inaugural Sweet Pickin’s strawberry season opener at Bidgee Strawberries and Cream on Saturday evening. Photo: Supplied.
His incredible voice amazed the judges and got a “four chair turn”, now Mick Harrington is on his way to Wagga to kick off the strawberry season in style at the inaugural Sweet Pickin’s festival at Bidgee Strawberries and Cream.
Region caught up with Mr Harrington ahead of the show.
How did we get lucky to have you come to Wagga for Sweet Pickin’s this weekend?
I’ve got a real soft spot for community festivals like Sweet Pickin’s — they’re what keep regional Australia alive. (Owner) Kylie reached out and told me about the great work Bidgee Strawberries and Cream are doing, and it just felt like the kind of event I wanted to be a part of. I’ll be rolling into Wagga on Saturday morning, taking in the sights and sounds, and heading back to Gippsland the next day — my wife and I are expecting our fourth child in just the next couple of weeks, so I can’t be away for too long!
How has life changed for you since you were named runner-up on The Voice in 2021?
It’s been a wild few years, to be honest. The Voice opened a lot of doors, but it also reminded me how important it is to stay grounded and true to who you are. These days I’m balancing my music with family life, community work, and songwriting that speaks to real people and rural Australia. The recognition has been great, but the best part has been meeting good honest folks across the country who’ve connected with my music.
You’re a Victorian man. How familiar are you with the Riverina?
Yeah, I’m a proud Victorian — born and bred in Gippsland. I’ve been through the Riverina a few times over the years, usually playing shows or travelling for work. It’s beautiful country — good people, good produce, and it always reminds me a lot of home. Wagga’s got that same mix of hard work and heart that you see right across regional Australia.
You’re also a family man … do your family know you’re headlining a strawberry festival? They’d probably want to come along too.
Yeah, they’re very aware! My three daughters are big on strawberries, so I’ll definitely be bringing some home. They love hearing about the places I go and the people I meet — and they always ask if there were animals, music, and food involved. So this festival would’ve ticked all their boxes!
What can we expect from you on Saturday evening?
You can expect a mix of classic Aussie favourites and some of my own songs that tell stories of life in the bush — family, community, and the land. I love getting the crowd singing along, having a laugh, and sharing a few real moments together. It’s about celebrating what makes our regions special — good music, good people, and a good time.
Homegrown talent will also perform
Wagga local Mitch Salan is ready to sing at Bidgee Strawberries and Cream this Saturday evening. Photo: Supplied.
Like the strawberries on Saturday, Mitch Salan hails from Wagga, and he’s built up a strong reputation as a gifted musician and singer.
When Kylie and Michael Cashen from Bidgee Strawberries and Cream asked if he would like to help kick off their strawberry season at Saturday’s Sweet Pickin’s festival, Mitch didn’t hesitate.
“I’ve been good mates with the Cashen family growing up with them through high school. They had me last year and I’ve been lucky enough to be asked back this year as well,” Mitch said.
“I grew up in Wagga and picked up a guitar at around 18. I’ve been dabbling with it since and managed to get a few gigs here and there along the way.
“Expect the classics, some country and just some head boppin’ acoustic tunes.”
Family friendly event Sweet Pickin’s will be run over four hours on 1 November, with gates opening at 3:30 pm.
Wagga City Council has got behind the event and tickets can be purchased from the Civic Theatre here.
Those attending will be able to pick the very first strawberries of the season straight from the source.
