By Callum Ludwig
Yarra Valley ECOSS’ Ecotopia was once again a success with many flocking for a night of fun on Friday 17 March.
The event also marked the first of the Permaculture Week events in the Yarra Ranges that will continue through to Sunday 26 March.
Yarra Valley ECOSS’ Community Engagement, Market and Events Coordinator Leanne Hall said there was something for everyone at Ecotopia.
“We had over 1000 people come and over 50 stalls with a large variety of local produce, food, art and craft,” she said.
“Everywhere you went, everyone was so happy and it just had a really strong community vibe and I think that’s probably one of the biggest takeaways from it.”
The event featured live performances from Yarra Valley Drummers, Tilda and Stella from Little Yarra Steiner School, Warburton artist Jayda Jean, master drummer and multi-instrumentalist Kofi Kunkpe, funk jazz and afrobeat band Mount Kujo and the Toora Teskeys, the parents of the famous Teskey Brothers.
Ms Hall said the event really helped to get messages across to people as well as to enjoy different cultural experiences.
“Even just walking around the site, you get to see the community gardens and different things in action, and see a different way to be in the world,” she said.
“I think the biggest thing is bringing the community together and educating people about new sustainable ways to live.”
Kids really enjoyed The Dreaming Space Circus Dome hosted by Eastern Regional Libraries, and were flying over ramps through a partnership between ECOSS’s UpCycles program and JigSaw Jumps.
Ms Hall said there was a big boost in people who want to get involved.
“There were definitely a lot of new faces and we had an increase in people wanting to volunteer and get involved and they can get in touch. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved from the food forest to the weekly market,” she said.
“Each year we offer something different at Ecotopia, something new, different performers and activities, but still with the same essence.”
