Entertainment
27 August, 2024
Harvest festival turns 60
THE Babinda Harvest Festival is back for its 60th year, with celebrations spanning a week from August 31.
To kick off the fun, early bird tickets are available throughout August, providing locals and visitors the opportunity to secure their attendance at a reduced price. The festival includes a round-up of activities, entertainment, and community engagement that captures the heart and spirit of Babinda.
Babinda Harvest Festival committee president Carly Francis said festivalgoers could look forward to a weekend filled with live music, the ‘Grand Street Parade’, farm machinery displays, delicious food stalls, and family-friendly activities.
Ms Francis has been a part of the executive committee for the past five years and has been heavily involved in the renowned Princess Quest during this time as well.
“This is my first year as president and it’s great to be planning and making the decisions that will make this year’s festival so special,” she said.
Ms Francis, who moved to Babinda community 11 years ago, takes great pride in being a part of the annual harvest festival celebrations.
“The Babinda community and the support everyone has for each other is really special,” she said.
“It’s great to see everyone come together and celebrate our little town.”
She said this year’s line-up of events was set to be exciting, with the return of the beloved giant lolly drop sure to excite kids, and with the ‘Princess Quest’ set to feature some returning faces.
“The Princess Quest to find the Harvest Festival Queen is always really exciting, and we’ve got a number of past queens returning this year as part of our 60th celebrations,” Ms Francis said.
“Joan Arnold (née Dickson), the first ever queen crowned in 1962, will be in attendance, which is very special for all involved.”
Committee vice-president Tanya Davey said it had been great to be a part of building the festival up to what it is today and “I can’t wait to see it all come together with 60 years of history behind it”.
In addition to the first harvest festival queen returning, long-time festival patron Angle Mustafa remains involved in the festivities. Mr Mustafa assisted in coordinating the Babinda Sugar Harvest Festival in 1962 and continues to attend committee meetings, providing guidance and support.
“We are so grateful to all our wonderful sponsors, without whom the festival would not be possible,” Ms Davey said.
“Bring your family along and come and join in as we celebrate 60 wonderful years,” she said. “Don’t miss out on the early bird tickets, available until the end of August.”
For more information and to buy tickets, visit https://bit.ly/3AtxwtD
