Kite festival takes flight

WET weather conditions didn’t deter the hundreds of people who turned out for the annual Kids+ Kite Festival on Sunday.

A crowd of more than 700 gathered at Rippleside Park for the fourth instalment of the event, where kites of all shapes and sizes took to the sky.

Kids+ marketing manager Sharon Gibbons said they had a wonderful day.

“It’s our favourite event of the year where we see people of all ages and abilities enjoying the simple act of flying a kite,” she said.

“One of the most entertaining parts is seeing how competitive some of the adults become.

“Flying a kite seems to bring out the inner child in everyone.”

The event is designed to promote a sense of belonging and community connection for a fun, accessible and inclusive family day.

“Our intention with the Kids+ Kites Festival is to create a fun and inclusive space and we are delighted to see our event growing in the hearts and minds of the community every year,” Ms Gibbons said.

Kids+ provides paediatric allied health therapy and support services for families, children and young people with disabilities.

One-hundred per cent of the profits from kites sold at the festival goes towards the organisation’s services.

Crowds were also well entertained at the event, with regular dance-offs supplied by DJ Mitch, along with local food and beverage vendors.

Ms Gibbons thanked the Kids+ team and the Kardinia Rotary Club for their support of the event.

“Each year this group of volunteers give so generously of their time and spirit, and we are extremely grateful,” she said.

“We are lucky and proud to be part of this special community.”