Autumn fair at popular winery

CELEBRATE the changing of the leaves at Balgownie Estate next week, as the Maiden Gully Progress Association will host its autumn festival.

From 10am to 3pm on Sunday, 1 May, free kids’ activities including balloon sculptures, face painting and Farmer Daryl’s mobile petting zoo will be on offer, with live music on the main stage all day.

Balgownie Winery will open its doors for meals and tastings of its award-winning wines.

Member of the organising committee James Proctor said the MGPA is very pleased to be able to bring the community together, especially after two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The fair was originally scheduled to be held in 2020 and for obvious reasons it didn’t happen, and it didn’t happen in 2021,” he said.

“It’s just designed as something where people from Maiden Gully and further out can come together for a fun day, with family activities and activities for other age groups.

“We’re partnering with the Balgownie winery who are also keen to connect with the local community. It’s interesting living in a suburb where there’s a winery basically next door.”

Live performers include Bendigo band The Flannos, and Maiden Gully artists Ozzie Harwood and Steph Bitter.

There will also be performances from Maiden Gully Primary School and Cheer ‘n’ Dance Bendigo.

The MGPA was formed in 2010 as a community group supporting Maiden Gully’s growth and ensuring its residents’ needs are met.

Entry to the festival is a gold coin donation.