SPRING has been an uncertain thing so far this year, but on Saturday afternoon, Balingup turned on the sunshine and warmth with all its might in time for the annual Spring Picnic and bonfire celebration.
Locals, families and visitors turned out in their hundreds to visit Golden Valley Tree Park’s (GVTP) World Collection for a chilled out afternoon of kid’s games and yoga, circle dances, Maypole dances, sound healing and picnicking.
The event was officially opened with a Welcome to Country by local Noongar Elder Sandra Hill and didgeridoo playing by Ben Pushman that drew the crowds in to listen.
GVTP Chair Chrissy Sharp then spoke about the history of the Park and plans for its future, including upgrading infrastructure to have power at the site, and hopes for one day having a Spring Picnic in the Australian Collection.
She said money raised from this year’s Spring Picnic would go toward eventually installing an iconic treehouse in the Park.
Live music from three different groups, circle dance demonstrations and a fairy play by local children kept everyone entertained throughout the afternoon.
The massive bonfire was lit at dusk, drawing everyone present towards the warmth and light, and the deafening pops and cracks of burning bamboo that echoed off the hills. It burned late into the night, while celebrations of spring continued.
