Help sought for school’s first fair

November 27, 2023 BY Tim Bottams

School support: Students at St Mary's Primary School at Clarkes Hill will help organise the school's first-ever fair next year and are set to host a stall on the day. Photo: SUPPLIED

THE first community fair in what is intended to become an annual tradition for the Clarkes Hill community is set to take place early next year, with organisers calling out for people to take part.

Set for Saturday 23 March at St Mary’s Primary, the event is being held by the school’s parents and friends committee.

PNF president Amelia Singline said the event for her is a way to bring her childhood experiences to Clarkes Hill.

“I grew up in Tasmania in a small country town similar to out here,” she said. “We had a community fair every year through Bridport Primary School, and I remember how much fun they were.

“The community and district out here has a fair bit to offer so we thought let’s open up the gates and have ripper family day.

“We’re currently got a petting zoo, face painting, and food stalls from throughout the district so we’re now seeking ideas.

“At the moment, we’re still looking for more market stalls. We’re also looking for musicians and performers and we’ve been in contact with the people from CresFest.”

Due to school’s farmland location, a show and shine will take place featuring farm equipment such as steam engines and tractors.

Ten farming families have put their hand up to take part in the display as well as providing food stalls, while so far six Ballarat-based market stalls are set to feature.

Ms Singline said she’s been surprised by the community’s response to the planned fair.

“My expectations have already been exceeded,” she said. “I didn’t expect to get around 10 emails within the first two weeks of people wanting to be part of it.

“I didn’t expect the farming families around the area to be so enthusiastic either. The school’s on a very small lot on a farm and they’ve been incredibly accommodating.

“If it does turn out to be a really big success next year we’ll probably move it to the Dean recreation Reserve the year after where there’ll be a lot more space.”

To express interest in taking part in the event, email the organisers at [email protected].