Warburton spruced up for Winterfest

By Kath Gannaway
WARBURTON’S annual celebration of all things wintry – Winterfest – is on this weekend.
“The theme is celebrating winter and the energy behind it is very definitely community,” said Winterfest Committee president Sue Mann.
For Ms Mann and other locals who love to chill out in winter, it’s as much about embracing the brisk mountain air and marvelling at the snow on the nearby hills as it is sitting in one of the town’s cosy cafes enjoying a mug of hot chocolate, indulging in a hot massage, or watching with family and friends as the local circus group creates amazing fire sculptures.
The three-day festival will start with a bang on Friday night, 20 June, with the Battle of the Bands at the Mechanics Institute Hall.
Festivities continue throughout the weekend with markets, art and craft exhibitions, blacksmithing demonstrations, live theatre, karaoke, bands, belly dancing, the Thump Under 18 Dance Party … and much more.
An art and photography display at the Arts Centre will include painting demonstrations and music by the group Alea.
Also in the Arts Centre, entries in the inaugural letter box competition are set to amaze, amuse and inspire.
Ms Mann said the festival is aimed at families – local and visiting – with lots of hands-on activities planned to keep the youngsters happy.
A full program of events is available at the Upper Yarra Arts Centre.
Community buses have been pressed into action for tours and to shuttle people between the Alpine Hotel and the town centre activities over the weekend, and to the Cerini Centre on the Sunday.
“Winterfest is very much a community celebration and just a great time to be in Warburton,” said Ms Mann.
For further information on Warburton Winterfest – June 20, 21 and 22 – phone Upper Yarra Valley and Warburton Tourism on 5966 9600.