Festivals and frivolities

Festivals and frivolities

The “not to miss” events happening in August

Melbourne Day

Did you know Melbourne is turning 180 this year?

A group of settlers aboard the Enterprize originally founded Melbourne on August 30, 1835.

They sailed over from Tasmania – or Van Dieman’s Land, as it was then known.

The Melbourne Day Committee has a day of festivities planned to celebrate the anniversary.

Melburnians can enjoy a range of activities on offer.

The day will kick off with the official flag raising Ceremony at 10.30am at Enterprize Park, followed by a free Melbourne Day Concert (featuring Daryl Braithwaite and Russell Morris).

The concert starts at 1.30pm and includes live entertainment, food stalls and a variety of activities throughout the Docklands precinct.

Maritime enthusiasts can also view the Melbourne Day Regatta at Victoria Harbour at 11.30am.

Amongst a host of water-based activities is a special “Blessing of the Fleet”, together with a sail past of a large flotilla of vessel.

A replica of The Enterprize will be leading the fleet.

For more information, visit www.melbourneday.com.au

Melbourne Writers Festival

Calling everyone who loves the written word!

The Melbourne Writers Festival is taking place from Thursday, August 20 to Sunday, August 30.

It is a celebration for writers, readers and thinkers.

The festival includes a dynamic program of storytelling, conversation and discussion, intellectual debate, educational programs, live performance, music and art events.

Melbourne is the second designated UNESCO City of Literature in the world – an acknowledgement of the success of its literary culture.

Festival director Lisa Dempster said this year’s program was a feast, with more than 400 writers and thinkers taking part.

This year the event is being opened with a keynote address by Louis de Bernières, the writer behind global sensation Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and Australian blockbuster Red Dog.

For ticket and event information, visit http://mwf.com.au/

National Op Shop Week

National Op Shop Week will take place from Sunday, August 23 to Sunday, August 30.

It’s a great chance to spring clean your wardrobe! National Op Shop Week is a campaign run by Do Something Near You.

They make it easier for Australians to get involved in community volunteering and charity events.

Do Something director Jon Dee says that you can help your local charity op shops in three ways: by donating unwanted clothes or goods, volunteering at a shop or by buying their goods to help raise funds.

Find out more by visiting www.dosomethingnearyou.com.au/national-op-shop-week

Since Labor has been in power …

Since Labor has been in power …

March 20th, 2024 - Evan Mulholland
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