The Vaughan Springs Carnival is returning on Sunday November 10.
This much-loved community celebration is held in the historic and picturesque Vaughan Springs Reserve along the banks of the Loddon River, situated on Djaara Country and within the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.
The Springs are the perfect setting for this relaxed and fun picnic-style family friendly event and everyone is invited to bring along their favorite picnic paraphernalia – tables, chairs, blankets, food and drink.
The Friends of Vaughan Springs committee will also be opening the kiosk and serving a sumptuous spread of homemade goodies in addition to barbecue offerings.
In true carnival spirit, the day will include a program of rides, games, live music and storytelling.
A highlight of each Vaughan Springs event is the powering up of the vintage miniature train built by local engineers in the early 1940s – a delight for all ages with rides commencing at 11am.
Another favourite of the day is the ‘Games Zone’ situated on the historic running track. Anyone who has been to a Vaughan Springs event in the past will know what hilarity awaits for those, young and old, entering the sack, egg and spoon, three-legged and kiddie horse races. Also on site some local DJing and dancing!
Castlemaine’s celebrated Thompson’s Foundry Band will once again be there to entertain carnival-goers from 1pm.
Established in 1835, the band is recognised as one of the longest continuing brass bands in Australia, its innovative musical programming featuring both traditional and contemporary adaptations.
The 2024 Vaughan Springs Carnival will be a particularly important cultural event, beginning with a Welcome to Country at 11am and the launch of A History of Vaughan at 2pm. This 634 page book, written by Ken James, Jon Kehrer and Jeannie Lister, focuses on the fascinating history of Vaughan from c1851 to the mid-1900s.
The carnival is an important occasion to raise funds for the ongoing care and maintenance of the Vaughan Springs so go along and have some fun with friends and family while supporting this special community-led fundraiser.
Take along good old cash and coins as the internet is unpredictable at the carnival site and organisers can’t guarantee being able to accommodate electronic payments.
Please note pets, namely dogs, are not permitted in the park.
For further updates and potential changes due to weather conditions, visit the Friends of Vaughan Springs Facebook page.
