The Friends of H V McKay Memorial Gardens are gearing up for the 7th McKay Gardens Community Festival, a vibrant event aimed at celebrating the rich heritage and beauty of the iconic gardens.
The festival, organised in conjunction with Brimbank council is a free event designed to encourage the local community to embrace the gardens throughout the year.
Targeting residents of Sunshine and the surrounding western suburbs, the festival has gained popularity, attracting attendees from as far as Alphington and Brighton.
The festival boasts a diverse lineup of performances, featuring local talents representing various cultural backgrounds.
This year, attendees can look forward to a Singalong for the Kids by Neil Ta’s Music School, where children arriving at 12:30 pm receive a free gift.
In addition to the cultural performances, the festival offers a range of activities for all ages. The kidsCorner features free face painting and a roving wizard, Simsalabim, courtesy of Magic Words Enchanting Entertainment and Events.
The fitness corner, sponsored by the North Sunshine Football Club, the Brimbank District Girl Guides, and St John Ambulance Service CPR Lab, provides opportunities for fitness activities and life-saving CPR demonstrations.
The festival also honours the heritage of the area with a special Heritage Tree, displaying a photographic history of the Sunshine Harvester Works and the H V McKay Memorial Gardens. Visitors can embark on a self-guided Oak walk around the gardens, exploring the natural beauty and historical significance.
For food enthusiasts, this year’s festival introduces an Indian food vendor offering vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options, along with kid-friendly choices like chips and nuggets. Attendees can also indulge in treats from Ice Cream Delights and Everywhere Specialty Coffee.
The event is on Sunday, March 17, from 12.30pm to 5pm at 120 Anderson Road, Sunshine.
Gerald Lynch
