Wizardry and wonder set for magical Ballan festival

WITH a wave of his wand and a sprinkle of stardust, Ballan Autumn Festival’s President Kevin Harper summoned up the team that has transformed this year’s festival to an Academy of Magic.

With the help of magicians, wizards, witches and wonderful werewolves, Sunday, 17 March will surely be the most spectacular event in the Ballan Autumn Festival’s 44-year history.

From stallholders and entertainers to the Ballan Farmer’s Market Grande Parade, beginning at 11 am, the community has joined together to provide an enchanting festival for everyone to enjoy.

President Kevin Harper said that the Ballan Autumn Festival has gained a reputation for innovation and connection, making it one of the best-supported community festivals in rural Victoria.

“Over the past few years the festival has grown to showcase this wonderful community of Ballan and surrounding district,” he said.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate our unique culture, creativity and the amazing diversity of who we are. I’m very proud of the professional approach of this new, much smaller, festival committee working with the CWA, our sponsors, local traders and the small group of volunteers who give many hours of time to ensure visitors have a wonderful experience. Without them our festival would not be the magical event that it is.

“This year we have attracted close to 200 quality stall holders, selling local produce, including art and crafts, country skills and food, along with magical treasures to remind our visitors of the great day out they have enjoyed at the Ballan Autumn Festival.”

There are new attractions is 2019 including the Country Women’s Associations magic cake decorating and cutest pumpkin competition.

And of course, many old favourites will be there to entertain the young ones while parents and grandparents are enjoying a sumptuous refectory style Morning and Afternoon High Tea Party in the Ballan Mechanics Institute or sampling local wines (in the licenced premises) and other delicacies from local growers, cooks and creative artists.

The festival favourites include a pet show, a petting zoo, vintage cars and tractor displays, and the great Hudson’s wood chopping competition, live music, attractions and dancing. There truly is something for everyone to make this a very magical festival.

Be prepared to be mesmerised as this dedicated band of wonderful witches and wizards work their magic on everyone who ventures to the Ballan Autumn Festival on Sunday, 17 March from 9am to 4pm. For further information contact [email protected].