Right off the back of DARK MOFO, anticipation fills the frosty Tassie air for another one of Southern Tasmania’s enchanting winter events- it may be cold out and about this time of year, but that never stops Tassie’s community from getting behind some of Tassie’s best cool weather events on offer. Celebrating its third year, Winterfest23 promises to captivate the Kutalayna/Jordan River community with its magical atmosphere, awe-inspiring performances, and exciting activities–all for FREE! 

Drawing crowds from all walks of life, Kutalayna Collective and Material Institute Lutruwita/Tasmania present a winter wonderland unlike any other on Friday the 30th of June from 3pm to 7pm. 

Happening on 30th June, Winterfest23 is a collaboration of Kutalayna Collective and Material Institute

But before we explore more on the happenings during that fun-filled day, let’s get to know deeper the organisations behind the anticipated event. 

Kutalayna Collective is a Connected Beginnings Lutruwita/Tasmania program that works together with service providers, organisations, philanthropists and the community to increase Aboriginal children’s health and educational outcomes, building long-term sustainable change within the local community.

Material Institute operates as a not-for-profit organisation whose mission is to ensure that children, young people, and their families are healthy, resilient, and capable of realising their greatest potential. 

Material Institute is a key local partner of the Kutalayna Collective. With the same goal in mind, these two organisations have joined forces to celebrate the community and bring people together to enjoy a family, fun, free event with food and refreshments, live music, and entertainment–rolled into one Winterfest event! 

According to them, Winterfest is an opportunity for families who can’t attend big events in the city. “We wanted to celebrate our community with something that’s easy, accessible, and free for families,” Kellyanne shared.

When asked about the special button of Winterfest that makes it unique among other winter festivals out there, Brooke reiterated that everything’s free including food and drinks. Kellyane also added that the event is committed to being sustainable. No single plastic is being used for the entire duration of the event. 

What makes this already exciting event even more exciting?!? You’re about to find out… 

If you’re a first-time attendee of Winterfest and you’re wondering what to expect at the event, there are heaps to look forward to! Tune in and listen to some talented local artists and live performances to keep you entertained throughout the event. 

Aside from that, you may also enjoy a free sumptuous communal feast prepared by Chef Vlad of 24 Carrot Gardens Tasmania for both children and adults! Enjoy some warm drinks as well on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis. 

For the activities, there’s something prepared for everyone from ceramics, face painting, art, and craft, to a lot more!!! Whether you’re a kid or an adult, you’ll surely feel that this event is specially made for you!

In the same podcast episode mentioned above, goals close to their hearts were shared by Kellyanne and Brooke as far as the Winterfest is concerned.

“My personal hope is just to break the stigma. I want everyone to see and appreciate the magnificent community we have out there along with its amazing community members,” highlighted Kellyanne.

“I’d like to personally see a child from the age zero to five just benefiting from what we’re doing and being school-ready once they get to that age,” Brooke ended. 

What a mixture of both a fun and a meaningful event! Before we even forget to mention, all of these and other fun activities will happen at the Botanical home of Material Institute, 2A Eddington Street, Bridgewater, Tasmania this coming 30th June 2023. 

Entertainment at the Winterfest23 includes musical performances from Selby Targett, Pyper Robertson & Briley Crossin. Plus be captivated by the breathtaking dance moves Fabrice Adonis Bisimwa and Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Pakana Dancers as they showcase their traditional dances. And don’t miss the Terrapin Puppet Theatre‘s captivating storytelling that will transport you to a world of imagination. Winterfest promises an unforgettable day of wonder and delight for all!

Admission is free for everybody, but make sure to reserve your slot here. We’ll see you there!