Forum to deliberate Dahlia & Arts direction

INTERESTED parties are invited to a special ideas forum to discuss the future of Eaglehawk’s Dahlia and Arts Festival.

The purpose of the forum is to engage the local community in a discussion to ensure the festival established in 1972 remains vibrant, contemporary and relevant going forward.

Reece Hendy, president of event organiser Eaglehawk Festivals, said the meeting comes at a pivotal time for the suburb, as the former borough is going through a mini boom, led by popular premises such as Trash Cult, Boneless Barbershop and Skip’s Skateboard Shop.

“There’s a real vibe with the traders in Eaglehawk and also the community and the local groups,” he said.

“It’s a bit of a happening place, it’s almost like the Brunswick or the Fitzroy of Bendigo; a little bit underdeveloped and underappreciated, but there’s a real movement of creativity and arts and community out there.”

“It’s a good chance to take stock of the event we have and check that we’re on the right track and make sure our committee is still accountable to the community.

“I think sustainability is probably (the) key, making sure our event is safe and a reflection of what our community wants.”

He encouraged any locals with a good idea to attend and raise it.

“I think that’s the main thing – we’re super open to everything,” he said.

“We’ve had a huge learning curve in the last three years on how to run an event. We’re just hitting that sweet spot now where we know what’s involved.”

The Dahlia and Arts Ideas Forum takes place on Thursday 12 June from 6pm to 7.45pm at the California Gully Mechanics Institute in School Street.

A light supper will be provided. RSVP on the Eaglehawk Festivals website.