Children’s festival a sparkling success

LITTLE faces were full of excitement last Friday at the Eaglehawk Children’s festival in Canterbury Gardens.

Run by the Eaglehawk Neighbourhood House, the festival saw at least 1800 people turn up to enjoy an afternoon of fun activities in the sun.

Johanna Josan who was at the event with her family.

“It’s amazing, there are a lot of cool activities here to do and see and I think everyone could have fun here,” she said.

Among Johanna’s favourite attractions was the petting zoo, which had rabbits, llamas, and puppies all willing interact with attendees.

But there was plenty more on offer with a jumping castle, climbing wall, hula hoop and circus activities, and a DJ spinning a soundtrack for the festival.

The free event also featured local and multicultural food including snags and samosas, veggie burgers and curries.

Manager of the Eaglehawk Neighbourhood house Tracey Moss said they had included multicultural food and activities to represent the gamut of cultures living in Greater Bendigo.

The festival would not have happened without the support of local businesses who attended to provide free activities for the kids to enjoy.

Ash Lance from Treehouse Paediatrics said they frequently attend the children’s festival because it is a great way to engage with the community.

Their sensory play activity was popular with both kids and adults and Ms Lance said the appeal was that the activity had no set rules.

“There’s no expectations with it, they can play however they want,” Ms Lance said.

Eaglehawk Neighbourhood house runs multiple Children’s festivals each year.