Organisers are hoping the weather will be kind and everyone will have a great time.

The festival will not be cancelled on Code Red Day (s) unless there is a fire that is likely to pose a threat to the town. Patrons will be advised of the warning the night before as well as on the day and any new arrangements will be circulated. The closed section of Grampians Road will be opened up to traffic if Code Red is issued.

The Grampians Jazz Festival was first established in 1986 by a group of keen jazz enthusiasts. The event started as a 21st birthday party at Roses Gap and continued until the fifth Grampians Jazz Reunion in 1991 when the number of those attending outgrew the centre.

It was then brought to Halls Gap in 1992 and since then, the Festival has grown from having 14 bands performing in one venue to around 130 bands today performing across nine venues.

This year organisers are starting with Jazz on the Rocks. Cast your eyes to the north-east ridge and you will hear and see musicians `ringing' in the Festival. Best spot to check out the musicians is from the end of Heath Street.

Registration for the Halls Gap Jazz Festival will be at the Halls Gap Hall on Thursday, February 11 from 2pm to 4pm and Friday, February 12 from 12 noon onwards.

Patrons should note all event venues offer disabled access with seating provided. Air conditioning in venues all except erected marquees.

Grampians Road in the town centre will be closed over the weekend to traffic from 8pm Friday night until 6.30pm Sunday.

Souvenirs including polo shirts, stubby holders, hats and caps along with CD's by performing bands will be available from Grampians Gifts and Souvenirs.

Program of events:

Thursday, February 117pm - Blackboarding for earlybirds available at Mountain Grand Guest House, Scott Petroleum Marquee.

Friday, February 125pm - Festival Launch `Jazz on the Rock at 5pm (weather permitting) - cast eyes to the rocks on the north east range.