Collie’s biggest arty party kicks off this week

For ten days in September, Collie comes alive for FESTIV ARTY, our biggest arty party, now in its 29th year.

The flurry of activity starts this Friday night, with the official opening for artists and invited guests, unveiling the work of local artists and artisans that will be on show throughout the festival at the Collie Art Gallery and Co-Op Building on Steere St.

The highlight of the festival is the fabulous Street Fair on Sunday, 8 September, with lots of free entertainment for children and a celebration of all things arty and fun with a circus workshop and show, live music, crafts and entertainment.

The festival’s performing arts competition, Collie’s Got Talent, is back again, with performers taking the stage at the Bendigo Bank Music Shell from 1pm, on Sunday, during the Street Fair.

There are a range of heavily subsidised workshops, including memoir writing, basket weaving and rainbow weaving. Places are strictly limited.

For something different, head along to the bat building workshop, followed by an evening bat spotting session this Saturday.

Watch as acclaimed artist Daek William transforms the side of the Red Cross building leading into Collie Central with a large mural capturing the essence of the bikes, hikes and trails theme of this year’s festival, starting Monday.

There are two Bike Health Checks and Social Rides being held, one for children 6-11 years and another for ages 12 and up, including adults.

The variety of author talks is always highly anticipated with this year’s program featuring sustainability expert Chris Ferreira, novel and short story author Amanda Curtain and journalist Anne-Louise Willoughby.

The popular Astronomy Night introduced during last year’s festival is being repeated on Monday evening at the Allanson oval.

FESTIV ARTY runs from 6 to 15 September, with full details at festivarty.com.