THE weather may have cooled, but things are heating up when it comes to preparations for this year’s Woorinen Winterfest celebrations.
Volunteers from the Woorinen and District Progress Association are working tirelessly to ensure the success of this year’s event.
The winterfest was the brainchild of the late Barry Teal who was instrumental in bringing the event to fruition in 2019.
Fellow winterfest organiser and progress association secretary Lorri Lambert said Mr Teal came up with the winter festival as a way to bring the community together during the cooler months.
“There’s not a lot happening during winter and this was a way to bring people together and cheer them up, often at a time when people are feeling a bit low,” Ms Lambert said.
Following Mr Teal’s sudden death a few weeks ago, Ms Lambert said it was important that his legacy was continued.
“I always admired Barry’s tenacity and passion for improving our community,” Ms Lambert said, adding the inaugural event in 2019 was a huge success.
“It was enjoyed by lots of people and we always planned to hold another one but then COVID-19 has prevented that from happening, until now.”
The family-friendly event will feature food stalls, kids’ activities, live entertainment and fireworks.
One of the standout features of this year’s event is the yarn bombing competition, encouraging local residents to brighten their premises with upcycled materials.
With some great prizes on offer, residents throughout the town have already started decorating their homes, while embracing the winter theme in anticipation of what will be a hotly contested competition.
The lantern parade will also showcase the town’s creativity in a colourful display of unity.
Ms Lambert said the night would conclude with a huge bang, with the help of Swan Hill Rural City Council and the State Government who had provided funding for a fireworks display.
“It will be a great event and we encourage everyone to come together for a fun, social afternoon,” Ms Lambert said.
The Woorinen Winterfest is on Sunday, June 19 from 2pm until 7pm, with COVID-safe practices in place.
