Community is encouraged to uncover the Bundaberg Region’s unique stories as part of this year’s Australian Heritage Festival.
On from Saturday 18 April to Monday 18 May, Australian Heritage Festival is a nationwide celebration co-ordinated by the National Trust, with ‘Change’ the theme of this year’s event.
Bundaberg Regional Council will host a range of events at Council facilities alongside community-led activities.
Council’s Arts and Heritage portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said the month-long program offered opportunities for residents and visitors to see a different side of the region.
“Australian Heritage Festival is a great time to get out and explore the wonderful heritage of our region and share stories about days gone by,” Cr Learmonth said.
“Council’s celebrations include a display of rare film footage from our Library Collection, a community memories project for theatre lovers and an art installation highlighting Childers history.
“We will also be hosting cemetery tours that highlight the life and achievements of prominent citizens in the region’s history.”
Cr Learmonth said there was more to discover in the festival program, including community-led open days, tours, dancing, music and art installations.
“The Bundaberg Regional Heritage Group has been working with community organisers to ensure a great program of new offerings this year,” he said.
A popular feature of the festival is the annual Childers Heritage Day which local historian and organiser Scott Stedman said was celebrating its fifth anniversary.
“Childers Heritage Day will take place on Saturday 9 May with activities held across Childers,” Scott said.
“This is our 5th year of participating and gives back to the community with charities able to raise valuable funds.
“We have some wonderful new attractions this year; 2-times World Champion blacksmith Dan Davie, Button Lace Makers and sewing circle at the Childers Historical Complex and an exhibition of interesting items at the Childers Art Gallery.”
Childers Heritage Day is free to attend and includes activities at the Childers Historical Complex and throughout the town.
Moncrieff Nostalgia Project
In conjunction with the festival, the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre has invited the community to share their memories and photographs for the Moncrieff Nostalgia Project.
The project includes a community survey to gather anecdotal memories from residents who have enjoyed the theatre throughout its long history.
Cr Learmonth said the venue had operated under many names since it began in 1911.
“Whether you know it as the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre, Moncrieff Theatre, The Crest, the Olympia Theatre or even the Olympia Airdome, we want to hear from you,” he said.
“Share your stories of visiting, tell us your memories of your first visit, what you love about the theatre and what you have noticed has changed.
“The project is not just for visitors – performers who have stories to tell about their time on the stage or staff who worked at the venue are also encouraged to take part.”
Community can also take exclusive backstage tours of the Moncrieff as a part of Australian Heritage Festival celebrations.
For more information and bookings, see the full program here.
