German Fest ticks boxes
Horsham Agricultural Society secretary Andrea Cross believes a revamped German Fest had all the hallmarks of a successful festival, helping to kick-start a packed program of upcoming society events.
Saturday’s festival at Horsham Showground’s Maydale Pavilion featured everything from traditional German ‘bier’ and food to card games, live music and yabby races.
Mrs Cross said while an ‘unseasonably’ cold spring night might have affected patron numbers, she was pleased with the festival’s outcome.
“I think what we provided this year was a festival in its entirety,” she said.
“Those who attended had a fabulous time with the programs on offer.
“Obviously event numbers were affected by the weather and there was some confusion with Northfest cancelled, with people wondering if the German Fest was cancelled too. There was a little bit of uncertainty.
“But there was really nothing I would change.
“We had bad luck with the weather, but we’re also so lucky in Horsham that we have a venue like the Maydale Pavilion where we have wet-weather alternatives.”
Despite introducing a new beer to the drink’s list, Mrs Cross said last year’s patron favourite Erdinger was again the most popular choice.
She said both food trucks were also well received by attendees, as well as a Mr Potato Head-making competition and a Brush with Beers and Bubbles painting session.
“A Brush with Beers and Bubbles was a positive to come out of it,” she said.
“It was really enjoyed by all the people who did it and we think there’s a possibility for that element of the festival to become something of a larger event in future.
“We also had card games on the tables, so people were in their small groups playing cards and could really enjoy their day out.
“I think bringing back a little bit of the old traditions really helped connect strangers with strangers and new friendships were made.”
Mrs Cross said the society would itself in the now start preparations for a schedule including a New Year’s Eve event by the Wimmera River on December 31, 60 Years of Wimmera Rock, Dolly’s Dream Ambassador Tom Curtain’s We’re Still Here tour and Horsham Irish Festival in February next year.
“We’ve got a great program of events coming up soon,” she said.
“So, bring on New Year’s Eve.”