Rochester skate park hosts Ripple Fest creativity

By Ryan Bellingham

May 26, 2025

Rochester skate park hosted creative and musical talent as part of Ripple Fest on Friday, May 23.

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A street art wall was installed for graffiti workshops, led by artist Retayner and co-ordinated by Matt McMillan, who said the idea was years in the making.

“I wanted to have a space where creative people from this area have somewhere to express themselves, and not get into trouble for doing so,” Mr McMillan said.

Students from Rochester Secondary College were being led in a workshop on Friday afternoon, adding their mark to what will be a permanent installation.

Students being led in a graffiti workshop. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

Across the skate park, Yvonne Reither and Ken Richie of Jam in the Van had set up their mobile stage and recording studio for DJ Coby.

Ms Reither said the duo’s business, which operates out of a converted caravan, visits regional areas, particularly ones impacted by natural disasters.