Whitby walk day on
Whitby’s Walkfest is not just a chance to experience the suburb’s fine walkways but to hear talented local musicians and get to know neighbours better.
Organiser Lisa Webber says this year’s event, on March 24, will be held in ‘‘ gorgeous weather’’, unlike the windy 2012 version. Headquarters will be St Mary’s Church, with maps available for a gold coin donation from noon.
Habitat for Humanity will hold a sausage sizzle and a Posh Coffee cart.
‘‘Unlike in previous years we’re going to have live music, to really create that friendly, carnival-like atmosphere. The Samuel Marsden Taiko drummers will be amazing, and they will be followed by guitar players Dan and Friends,’’ Ms Webber says.
The Whitby Residents’ Association will take registrations to get an indication of where people have come from to participate.
While the fancy dress element has been discarded, a quirky, ‘‘smile enforcement area’’ will be added.
‘‘I’m still working it through but I would love to set up a camera in a certain spot and make smiles compulsory,’’ Ms Webber says. Last year about 400 people took part, using the opportunity to walk some of Whitby’s 12 kilometres of walkways. Landowner David Bradford will open up some of the former Duck Creek golf course land for the day, while longtime resident Jim Dearsley will provide a guided walk.
Ms Webber says: ‘‘ We’re blessed with fantastic places to walk around here so get out and see your neighbourhood.’’
She recommends serious walkers try for the four peaks in one afternoon – above The Crowsnest, The Quarterdeck, Spinnaker Hill and The Mainsail.