After a two-year hiatus, the Philanthropic Collective’s Halloween on the Green event made a triumphant return to Ferny Creek Reserve on Sunday the 30th of October, in a roaring success that saw close to 5000 costume-clad patrons.
Highlights included rock royalty, Dave Graney and Clare Moore hitting the main stage along with hills favorites, Charlie Bedford, and local legends Daisy West. Fletchers and Bendigo Bank hosted the best dressed competition with over 10K of prizes on offer with winners announced by James Merlino MP.
Event Director and festival creator, Andrew Fillip-Gautier said “mother nature heard our call and came out to shine after the proceeding two weeks were fraught with rain”.
“Over 160 volunteers came through the site on the day while just about all vendors sold out. We introduced a waste management system which saved 460kg of wastage from landfill on the day, something we should all be extremely proud of,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said.
The show stopping crowd favourite was without doubt the mayor’s parade sponsored by Le Pine funerals, Ferntree Gully.
The parade was led by Los Torros mariachi band, with Yarra Ranges Council proxy mayor, Councillor Tim Heenan cheered on from inside the horse draw vintage hearse.
The parade was a true sceptical of movement and colour as it made its way around the reserve followed by stilt walkers, circus acts and the fantastical Tanbura Belly Dancers.
The organising committee would like to thank all schools, community organisations and sponsors for their unwavering support.
“We don’t know of any event which offers the level of free entertainment, carnival rides and affordable healthy food option to support families on a level playing field of affordability,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said.
The team are actively seeking new committee members to future proof this hills favourite Festival. If this sounds like you, please connect at andrew@philathropic.org.au
