Farmland may be disappearing from the Redlands, but Sun Festival organiser Helen van Bladeren, of Ormiston, is hoping to keep the culture alive by marking the seasons.
The first of a promised four festivals will be held at the Ormiston State School on Saturday, March 21, this one marking the equinox which occurs on that day at 8.44am.
Future festivals are planned for solstice and equinox dates with the next one to have a medieval theme, planned for June 20.
"Here in Australia, it is easy to forget the seasons because there isn't a huge distinction between summer and autumn. But overseas, events marking defined seasons are popular and I think it is important that we align with that," she said.
To that end, the Sun Festival promises a healthy mix of seasonal activities, including a seminar on the stars and planets by star gazer Nicholas Thompson (11am), a talk by bee keeper Dr Tim Heard (10am) and by homeopath Raia Kousary (2pm).
"The theme is about the Earth, the seasons and the planets and staying and living a healthy lifestyle. And where better to do this than in a community that has its roots in farming. It would be a shame to see those farming traditions go," Helen said.
Entertainment is primarily local, with a performance by the Redland City Choir (at 10.40am), vocalist Austen Carpenter (2pm), Oriels Mirage Belly Dancers (10am), Max the Magician (1.30pm) and the Here's to Life group (12.50pm).
As the director of Van Entertainment, Helen said the festival was also a chance for aspiring artists to organise a short public audition for future gigs.
"We want this to be a happy event, so we are offering lots of fun activities and performances. it is a chance for the community to get together and celebrate."
Psychic medium Jason McDonald is scheduled to give his insights as part of the festival. The festival offers a unique opportunity to see Jason perform for just the entry price of $5.
For enquiries on this or about future festivals, contact Helen on 0411 332 110.
