Isn’t It Great To Be Free…

At the Wonderland-themed Festival held on the last weekend in March in Franklin there were many activities for people to enjoy, ranging from a “Looking Glass Art Exhibition” to a “Mad Hatter’s Ball” with dancing and entertainment to a “Wonderland Water & Light Show”, and winding up with a music and market festival on the Sunday. Despite some “hiccups” in the organization of the events, the overall experience was an appreciation of the opportunity for communities to mix and enjoy the wonderful environment of the town and Huon River.

One particular event, the Saturday evening light show, is a magical expression of the environment and it is something that should be a focus for the town for years to come. The lit up boats moving silently and gracefully across the silky black water against the backdrop of the night skies, the dragon boats with their brightly coloured lights and dramatic drums, were a highlight of the whole weekend.

The water component of the light show was in conjunction with a fluorescent wonderland scene for children. As an organizer and participator, I would like to elaborate on this event. It is located in the heart of the town, on the spacious football oval overlooking the river. Focused on the stresses of last minute details and coordinating, I noticed one of many cars pulling up with excited participants, two of whom, a kindy-sized boy and girl, jumped out of the car and raced across the oval as fast as their small legs could carry them. Without a care in the world, the little girl, with hair streaming behind her, and a giggle in her voice, shared the excitement of the moment and the scene, which I think is a message for us all. “Isn’t it great to be free” she volunteered.

This I believe, is part of the whole meaning of the festival. The sense of freedom in being outdoors and being a part of something- whether it was the markets, the music festival, games or aerial walks, or any of the other activities. The sharing and enjoyment by adults and children alike that will be remembered well into the future.

Jane Johnson
Organising Committee